Official Logo for Beyond SDGs Public-Private Conference Revealed

Official Logo for Beyond SDGs Public-Private Conference

The official logo for the Beyond SDGs Public-Private Conference has been finalized. This initiative is designed as a practical dialogue platform aimed at achieving international goals beyond 2030. From October 8, 2025, for approximately two months, the conference called for entries for a logo that symbolizes its action slogan "BEYOND! for beyond SDGs."

The selected entry comes from Akari Takehara of Keio University, titled "The Power of Questions Gathered in 'What If' and the Path to Depth." The logo went through a refinement process and is now complete, aimed at fostering social impact and further development in the future.

Background of the Logo Submission Request

The slogan "BEYOND! for beyond SDGs" emphasizes the necessity for Japan to advocate actionable suggestions aimed at achieving the SDGs, not just locally but throughout Asia and on a global scale through the United Nations. The theme fundamentally deals with the question, "How can we surpass 'now' and realize a richer future?" The aim is to encapsulate diverse voices and ideas related to the SDGs, thus transforming them into a collective strength that drives us beyond today.

The members of the Beyond SDGs Public-Private Conference embody the spirit that everyone engaging with the SDGs is part of this initiative. By procuring a logo that encapsulates this vision, the conference promotes collaborative action across generations and sectors. Critical considerations during the evaluation of the submitted designs included an open approach to collaboration that transcends sectors and generations, as well as a universal quality that resonates beyond Japan to the broader Asian and global community.

The jury was led by Kenji Kanie, a professor at Keio University's Graduate School of Media and Governance; and included judges like Yudai Iguchi, a creative director at Hakuhodo, and special judge Katsuhiko Hibino, the president of Tokyo University of the Arts. Aiming for a reflection of diverse values, an international perspective was contributed by journalist Yuko Kuniya, enriching the deliberation.

Details of the Selection Process

The logo evaluation meeting took place at Keio University’s Mita Campus, where four jurors convened to assess numerous submissions. Each design was displayed as the jurors shared their first impressions and insights, allowing for a multi-faceted evaluation of the pieces. They revisited the fundamental tenets and goals of the Beyond SDGs initiative while engaging in profound discussions, leading to the narrowing down of selections over the course of the long discussion session. Ultimately, Takehara's design was chosen due to its effective representation of the 17 goals of the SDGs and the emphasis it placed on the need for "questions" that help transcend the present.

Following the selection, Akari Takehara, along with judges Hibino and Iguchi, participated in a creative meeting to further refine the design details, culminating in the logo that symbolizes the action slogan "BEYOND! for beyond SDGs." The design illustrates the 17 colors forming a speech bubble, embodying the dynamic image of diverse questions leading to enriched discussions about Beyond SDGs. Methods for further communication and dissemination of the logo were also discussed, signaling its forthcoming widespread use.

Starting today, the logo is available for download from the official Beyond SDGs conference website, with plans for broad application as part of an outreach campaign.

Akari Takehara’s Comments

I am truly honored to have my work selected. Participating in discussions to refine the logo was an invaluable experience for me. Currently, I engage in quantitative research on SDGs at university, alongside creating and promoting SDGs-themed picture books. Through these experiences, I now realize the importance of diverse questions and collaboration for deepening our efforts toward SDGs. I hope that through the simple, universal logo of "What If," individuals will be encouraged to question and engage actively in discussions relevant to their lives.

Judges' Impressions

Special Judge: Katsuhiko Hibino (Tokyo University of the Arts President) stated that the role of the Beyond SDGs logo must stand apart from ordinary commercial designs or emblems. It should facilitate a collective deliberation, embodying the consciousness and commitment found in everyday lives. The discussions during the selection process were deep and meaningful, and I look forward to the future developments that stem from the chosen logo, sharing the message of ongoing action toward Beyond SDGs.

Chairman Kenji Kanie expressed that the selection process allowed them to encounter a variety of thoughts, enriching their understanding of how principles cultivated through SDGs could advance beyond 2030. The potential of the younger generation was especially reaffirmed, highlighting how to effectively utilize that energy toward creating a sustainable society.

Judge Yudai Iguchi from Hakuhodo mentioned that while some technical aspects of the speech bubble concept might appear unfinished from a professional standpoint, what remains essential in all forms of expression is the passion and intent behind them, a lesson learned through Takehara's work. The same principle applies as we continue to promote the Beyond SDGs initiative—grasping that passion is crucial while striving to rally like-minded individuals around this cause.

Judge Yuko Kuniya emphasized the need for the logo to serve as a prompt for everyone to re-evaluate their engagement with the SDGs, recognizing the fundamental significance of each of the 17 goals that this logo represents.

About the Beyond SDGs Public-Private Conference

With ten years elapsed since the adoption of the SDGs by the UN, the next five years demand intensified efforts. As we strive toward the SDGs, the necessity for future goals becomes increasingly apparent. The UN plans to kick off debates on post-2030 goals starting from the 2027 general assembly, marking a critical time for consolidating and communicating areas of achievement and challenges, along with proposals to the UN.

The Beyond SDGs Public-Private Conference aims to set a precedent for actionable initiatives originating from Japan, creating a platform for tangible suggestions that connect practice with advocacy. The Conference invites all stakeholders—including politicians, government entities, corporations, research institutes, and civil society—who are committed to achieving the SDGs. The Board of Directors will explore methodologies to further these efforts.

For more information, please visit the official website: Beyond SDGs.

Contact for Companies or Organizations Interested in the Beyond SDGs Initiative

The Beyond SDGs Public-Private Conference welcomes inquiries for sponsorship or collaboration from companies and organizations interested in advancing international goals post-2030 together. We appreciate various forms of partnerships, including support for youth participation and collaborative projects. Feel free to reach out to the secretariat for further discussion.

Contact:
Beyond SDGs Secretariat
E-mail: [email protected]