Celebrating Inclusion: Kadokawa Midori Recognized as Platinum Athlete in Saitama

Tokyo Power Technology Co., Ltd., which is involved in various businesses focused on energy, has long supported diversity and inclusion by hiring Deaf athletes. In a significant achievement, their affiliated Deaf athlete, Kadokawa Midori, specializing in Deaf athletics for the 100m and 200m events, has been officially recognized as a "Platinum Athlete" (Shine Division) by Saitama Prefecture. This recognition will enable Kadokawa to receive comprehensive support to compete in major domestic and international competitions as a representative of the next generation of elite athletes.

Despite facing challenges due to hearing loss since the age of two, Kadokawa has shown resilience and determination in her athletic pursuits. She received a diagnosis of severe sensorineural hearing loss and has been using hearing aids, which help her navigate the world. Growing up in Indonesia and attending a Japanese school for most of her elementary years, she eventually returned to Japan, where she discovered her passion for track and field during middle school. Her journey led to her being selected for Japan's Deaf athletics national team while in university, prompting her to learn sign language to facilitate better communication.

Kadokawa’s commitment extends beyond her athletic career; from 2017 to 2023, she served as a board member and later as vice-president of the Japan Deaf Athletics Federation. These roles allowed her to advocate for social contributions through Deaf athletics while helping to develop the next generation of athletes. As part of her mission, she actively participates in lectures, sign language classes, and diversity events to further promote inclusion.

The "Platinum Athlete" initiative by Saitama Prefecture is designed to identify and nurture top athletes with local roots who are expected to excel in international competitions. The program not only selects athletes but also provides targeted support grounded in sports science, including individual coaching and the use of specialized equipment for physical performance assessments. This approach aligns with the prefecture's goal to enhance the competitive skills of its athletes.

As a designated Platinum Athlete, Kadokawa will benefit from a framework that integrates expert guidance based on scientific research, helping her hone her abilities as she prepares for upcoming competitions, including the 2025 Deaflympics in Tokyo. This recognition and the support she receives serve as a profound testament to the inclusive practices embraced by Tokyo Power Technology.

Kadokawa remains dedicated to balancing her athletic training with her professional responsibilities in a comprehensive welfare facility, where she provides employment support, rehabilitation, and exercise instruction for individuals with disabilities. Her efforts reflect a commitment not only to her individual success but also to broader societal impact.

For more updates on Kadokawa Midori's competition schedule and her involvement in various events, interested parties can follow the updates on the company's athlete website at Tokyo Power Technology Athlete Site.

In conclusion, the recognition of Kadokawa Midori as a Platinum Athlete epitomizes the ideals of diversity and inclusion, showcasing her as a role model for aspiring athletes with disabilities, and as a source of inspiration for all. Her journey is a narrative of perseverance, redefining boundaries in the world of sports and beyond.