#Japan #Tokyo #NPO #CROSS BRIDGE #Global Issues

'CROSS BRIDGE' Career Exploration Program Launches

Starting in August 2025, the third edition of the CROSS BRIDGE program will be initiated by Cross Fields, a nonprofit organization based in Shinagawa, Tokyo. This initiative is designed for high school students across Japan, allowing them to delve into global social issues while contemplating their future career paths.

About the Program

The CROSS BRIDGE program is a career education opportunity that connects youth with pressing social challenges on an international scale. Each year, up to 30 high school students are selected to participate in this completely free online program, which runs from August to October. Participants are given the unique opportunity to engage with experienced mentors who have previously tackled similar challenges.

Key Features:

• - Mentoring Sessions: Building on positive feedback from previous years, this year's program will enhance the mentoring experience to cater to individual participant needs.
• - Interactive Discussions: Participants will engage in online discussions and workshops with experts in global education and social enterprise.

Open Calls for Participants

Applications for the program are open until July 13 at 11:59 PM. Interested students can apply via the special program website: CROSS BRIDGE Website.

Inaugural Events

To celebrate the launch, two free online events will be held:
1. Event 1: Global Experience for Japanese High School Students
- Date: June 20 (Friday), 6:00 PM
- Guests: Yu Nagai, Co-founder of Tactopia, and Daichi Okuma, Director of NPO Cross Fields
- Event URL

2. Event 2: Fostering International Interest Without Traveling
- Date: June 26 (Thursday), 6:00 PM
- Guests: Kazuhiro Takeda, Co-representative of Will Door, and Yusuke Kubo, Teacher at Komatsu Otani High School
- Event URL

The Journey So Far

Since its inception in 2022, the program has successfully enrolled diverse participants from different backgrounds. Responses to satisfaction surveys show that every participant rated their experience positively. Past participants reported feeling more connected to international issues and empowered to pursue careers with a global outlook.

Behind the Scenes:
The third edition is funded through generous donations from supporters who resonate with its mission. Mentors will provide personalized support to deepen learning and exploration within the context of international social issues. Notably, Tomohiro Akita, the CEO of WASSHA, will share insights that will help participants visualize their roles in addressing social challenges.

Program Details

The CROSS BRIDGE program utilizes a fully online format spanning three months, featuring sessions that focus on:
1. Global Connections: Engage with current global issues impacting society.
2. Career Mentorship: Work closely with seasoned professionals to understand career paths related to social impact.
3. Interactive Learning: Participate in hands-on experiences that ignite curiosity and a sense of purpose.

For more information on program specifics, including schedules and application details, please visit the official website: CROSS BRIDGE Special Site.

About Cross Fields

Cross Fields connects professionals with local and international social issues to foster both real-world problem solving and leadership development. Alongside international engagement programs, Cross Fields also runs initiatives for corporate executives to experience social issues firsthand. You can learn more about this nonprofit organization at Cross Fields Website.