#Japan #Tokyo #Connect #Uniiique #Sports Creators

Uniiique's New Initiative: CONNECT

Tokyo-based production company Uniiique is excited to announce the launch of its latest division, CONNECT, aimed specifically at creators with a passion for athletics and sports. This new venture is set to officially commence on August 11, 2025.

Known for its innovative approach to nurturing talent, Uniiique has previously collaborated with creators who gained recognition through social media, such as Miyu Kaneko and Ryoaka Orida. With the inception of CONNECT, the company aims to further the message of 'more freedom, more fun', channeling their expertise in trendsetting and individuality into the world of sports creators.

CONNECT's mission is straightforward: to promote various sports through social media, thereby stimulating interest among younger demographics and ultimately expanding the total number of sports participants across Japan. In a departure from traditional business models like corporate teams, CONNECT will establish a fresh monetization strategy centered around social media engagement, ensuring that both athletes and creators can sustainably pursue their love for sports.

By intertwining sports with the creator economy, CONNECT aspires to unlock innovative value beyond conventional industry constraints.

A Message from Takuma Iso, CONNECT Division Manager

In a heartfelt message, Takuma Iso, the head of CONNECT, reflects on his own journey: "Did you play sports as a child? Personally, I threw myself into volleyball from a young age, with dreams of representing my country. However, upon entering university, I faced the hard reality of my height, prompting my decision to step back from competitive volleyball.
I remember how sports started out as a passion for me, but as competition intensified, I became focused on future prospects and job opportunities. The joy of playing was overshadowed by the dilemma of continuing or quitting.
Today, with the power of social media as a platform, we want to convey that sports are more than just wins or losses. They embody fun, culture, and are a way of expressing oneself. Our aim is to create new options for athletes and creators to share their passion for sports on their own terms, without having to adhere to professional teams or restrictive organizations.
Together, we’re on a mission to create a society where everyone has the opportunity to pursue sports for a lifetime without compromising their love for it."

Creator Management Strategies at CONNECT

CONNECT will adopt the established management framework and creator development methods that have proven effective at Uniiique, focusing on building buzz through social media. Regular workshops and events will be provided for creators to enhance their skills and understanding of the industry, ensuring they are well-prepared for opportunities.

Structure of Management

Each creator will have support from four specialized units, dedicated to their development and professional growth.

Development Program

Regular meetings with creators will be held to implement a PDCA cycle (Plan-Do-Check-Act), supporting them from strategic planning to ongoing development.

Internal Training Seminars

We will conduct frequent training sessions covering etiquette, industry standards, and advertising regulations to create a secure working environment for both clients and creators.

Events Featuring Creators as Speakers

Creators with training will have opportunities to present to external companies and engage with Gen Z through seminars, helping them articulate their experiences and share learnings effectively.

Meet the CONNECT Creators

The inaugural group of creators under CONNECT includes a diverse lineup of talented individuals:

• - Juna Kikuno: A volleyball player and influencer with a significant following on social media.
• - Noa Kinugasa: A dedicated beach volleyball athlete preparing for the 2028 Olympics, actively promoting the sport.
• - Jura Enomoto: A track and field athlete sharing training insights as a ‘Muscular Girl.’
• - Mayaka Honjo: A football player and up-and-coming social media presence in women's football.
• - Ena Fujimiya: A passionate baseball player maintaining sports activities while sharing her love for the game online.
• - Kiari Kasai: A track and field athlete promoting both athletics and dance as a lifestyle.
• - Ran Kaizuki: A budding idol pursuing sports while aiming to uphold her sister's legacy.

About Uniiique

Company: Uniiique Co., Ltd.
Address: 1-26-30, Higashi, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo, 150-0011, Japan
Services: Talent management, event production, creative web services, and advertising strategies
Website: uniiique.jp

For inquiries regarding CONNECT and its talented creators, please contact: [email protected].