Youth Innovation EXPO (Global Track)

The World's Largest Student Global Pitch Contest, "Youth Innovation EXPO," at the Osaka-Kansai Expo. A once-in-a-lifetime event where students' "challenges" will shape the future!

Student Expo Project Team
"Asunowa"
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Europe Contest UCL Japan Society
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North America Contest 
DJA
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Asia Contest 
Nanyang Technological University Japanese Appreciation Club (JAC)
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East Japan Contest
To Grow Up
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Kanto Contest・Pre-Event Beyond 2020 NEXT PROJECT
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West Japan Contest ②  in Osaka To be Announced
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Student Expo Project Team
"Asunowa"

 

"ASUNOWA" is a student organization aiming to foster the next generation of innovators. By collaborating with companies, VCs, and local governments, the organization connects students with society. Additionally, it utilizes the metaverse to provide a collaborative space that transcends time and place, supporting students worldwide in their challenges and exchanges towards creating new value. The YIE, held at the Osaka/Kansai Expo site, marks a big milestone for our organization, where students and society from diverse backgrounds can engage in cross-boundary exchanges. The event is designed and managed to be a global event that goes beyond conventional event frameworks, focusing on building connection between student and mentors.

Hiromasa Wada
(和田 洋正)

University: Kyoto University
Faculty: Medicine
Major: Human Health Sciences
Year: 3rd Year


Message:
Nice to meet you! I’m Hiromasa Wada from Kyoto University. The Osaka Expo is happening for the first time in 55 years—just watching from the sidelines would be a waste! As students, we have a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to be part of this. Why not take on the challenge together?
I’m looking forward to meeting many amazing people!

Shiho Masuoka
(増岡 志歩)

University: Kyoto University
Faculty: Agriculture
Major: Bioresource Science
Year: 2nd Year


Message:
I love insects and Mexican food!
Through this Expo project, I want to expand my connections and fully enjoy this once-in-a-lifetime Japan-hosted Expo! Looking forward to meeting everyone! 🎉

Satoshi Uemori
(上森 智史)

University: Kyoto University
Graduate School: Informatics
Course: Communications and Information Systems
Year: Master's Program, 1st Year


Message:
It is a great honor to be involved in Expo 2025 as a student.
This Expo will be a bridge to the future, bringing people together to shape what’s next. From Kansai to the world, let’s showcase the power of Japan’s youth!

Gen Inoyama
(井ノ山 源)

University: Kyoto University
Faculty: Engineering
Major: Polymer Chemistry 
Year: 4th Year


Message:
As a student aspiring to launch a deep-tech startup in the future, I am thrilled to contribute to making this Contest a platform for bold new challenges.
I hope this event becomes a valuable experience for all participants, and I will do my best to make it an exciting and inspiring opportunity!

Gen Suwa
(諏訪 元)

University: Konan University
Faculty: Intelligent Information Studies
Major: Intelligent Information Science
Year: 3rd Year


Message:
As a child, I read about World Expos in textbooks and dreamed of them. Now, I’m beyond excited to be part of creating one!
I hope this Expo becomes a place where participants can shape the future—for themselves, for Japan, and for the world. Looking forward to working with everyone!

Irhasy Maulad
(イルハシ マウラド)

University: Kyoto University
Faculty: Engineering
Year: Senior


Message:
I’m honored to be part of the YIE project! Through this initiative, we aim to create value and collaborate globally with fellow student founders and mentors to build a better society. I’m excited to see everyone bring their ideas to YIE! 

Mimi Fujita
(藤田美々)

University: Ritsumeikan University
Faculty: College of International Relations
Department: Global Studies Major, International Relations
Year: 3rd Year


Message:
I am truly excited about this valuable opportunity that I have been fortunate to receive! Drawing on my experience growing up in Bali and my diverse interests, I will do my best to contribute as a valuable member of the team!

 Europe Contest 
UCL Japan Society

 

 UCL Japan Society is a student organization where students interested in Japanese culture come together and connect. Through various activities such as tea ceremonies, calligraphy, film screenings, and Japanese food events, we promote a deeper understanding of Japanese culture. Additionally, we host company information sessions and career seminars, providing valuable opportunities for students' future paths. Serving as a platform for exchange between international and local students, we aim to be a bridge between Japan and the UK.

Shunta Numano
(沼野 峻大)

University: University College London (UCL)
Faculty: Faculty of Engineering, Department of Biochemical Engineering
Year: 2nd year


Message:
I am really excited to be inspired by everyone's passion and to discover ideas that have the power to change the world. As part of the organizing team, I will do my best to support everyone in giving their all!

Ranko Mizuno
(水野 蘭子)

University: University College London (UCL)
Faculty: Faculty of Philosophy, Politics, and Economics (PPE)
Year: 2nd year


Message:
As a bridge between students and startup professionals from Europe and Japan, I am committed to making the European tournament as exciting as possible!

North America 
DJA

 

 DJA is a Japanese student association led by Japanese college students in Vancouver, Canada. The organization aims to promote Japanese culture and foster intercultural exchange through various events and activities. It provides opportunities for people interested in Japan to build lasting friendships while also serving as a networking platform for Japanese students to connect and share information. DJA hosts a variety of events, including language exchange programs, game tournaments, and Japanese cultural activities. Currently, the association has around 20 members, including 13 on the organizing team.

So Imaizumi
(今泉 颯)

University: Douglas College
Faculty: Faculty of Commerce and Business Administration
Year: 2nd year


Message:
I am interested in international exchange and entrepreneurship, and I love environments where different cultures and values come together! At this event, I hope to engage in new encounters and learning experiences while creating an exciting and inspiring environment together!

Hinako Agata
(阿形 日菜子)

University: Douglas College 
Faculty: H&SS Psychology 
Year: 1st year


Message:
I will do my best to support this valuable opportunity for students from Japan and around the world to connect!

Sora Imai
(今井 そら)

Univeristy: Douglas College
Faculty: Psychology
Year: 2nd year


Message:
I am honored to be working behind the scenes on this major event that brings so many people together. I will wholeheartedly support the participants so they can share their ideas, while also enjoying the experience myself!

Jo Kumazawa
(熊澤 譲)

Univeristy: Douglas College
Faculty: Commerse and Business Administration
Year: 2nd year


Message:
I’m thankful for the chance to take part in this World Expo which only comes around once every five years, and I will do my best to make the event a success! 

Asia
Nanyang Technological University Japanese Appreciation Club (JAC)

 

 JAC brings together NTU students and staff who share a passion for Japanese culture. Through performances, educational activities, and exchange programs, we introduce the richness of Japan’s traditions while fostering friendships and cultural exchange. JAC strive to create an engaging space where members can actively participate, connect, and share their love for Japan!

East Japan Contest
To Grow Up

 

 "To Grow Up" is a platform designed to support students at Tohoku Gakuin University who feel hesitant to take even a small step toward their dreams or goals. Its purpose is to encourage more students to take initiative by thinking and acting together.

Taiga Hirayama
(平山 泰我)

University: Tohoku Gakuin University
Faculty: Faculty of Business Administration
Department: Department of Business Administration
Year: 3rd Year


Message:
I’m looking forward to seeing all of your ideas in the pitch presentations.
I’ll do my best to help create the best possible environment for everyone, so thank you in advance for your support!

Shunsuke Goto
(後藤 俊輔)

University: Tohoku Gakuin University
Faculty: Faculty of Regional Development Studies
Department: Department of Policy Design
Year: 3rd Year


Message:
I’m truly excited to be involved in the operation of such a major event like the Expo.
I’ll do my very best to help make the Eastern Japan Regional Contest a place where many innovative ideas from students can come to life!

Takuya Matsuda
(松田 拓也)

University: Tohoku Gakuin University
Faculty: Faculty of Regional Studies
Department: Department of Policy Design
Year: 3rd Year


Message:
I never imagined I would be involved in the Expo, but I’m truly honored to have the opportunity to be part of the Osaka Expo in such an unexpected way!

 

Miu Tanaka
(田中 覧宇)

University: Tohoku Gakuin University
Faculty: Faculty of Business Administration
Department: Department of Business Administration
Year: 3rd Year


Message:
Until today, I had no knowledge of the Expo, but I am truly honored to have the opportunity to be involved thanks to this wonderful connection. I look forward to working with you!

Kanto Contest・Pre-Event Beyond
2020 NEXT PROJECT

 

Beyond 2020 NEXT PROJECT is a student organization originating from Waseda University that operates based on three core pillars: nurturing, practicing, and promoting entrepreneurship. While "entrepreneurship" is often translated as "entrepreneurial spirit," our organization defines it more broadly—as the power to create something from nothing, a fundamental capability that all people should possess. Our members range from high school students to graduate students, and we generate new value through initiatives such as running UN-accredited projects and planning events at co-creation spaces in Tokyo.

Ayaka Matsumoto
(松本 綾香)

University: Waseda University
Graduate School: Graduate School of Advanced Science and Engineering
Department: Department of Advanced Science and Engineering
Year: Integrated Doctoral Program, 2nd year


Message:
Starting in 2025, I will serve as the president of the student organization Beyond 2020 NEXT PROJECT. Our group's mission is to foster entrepreneurship by regularly organizing various events and workshops, primarily in the Kanto region. I am truly honored to have the opportunity to participate in this main event at the Expo. I will do my best to make it a success—looking forward to it!

Tomoko Sasano
(笹野 朋子)

University: Waseda University
Graduate School: Graduate School of Creative Science and Engineering
Department: Department of Business Design
Year: Master's program, 1st Year


Message:
I am truly honored to be involved in this Expo project, where innovation is created and intersects. Through this initiative, I will strive to expand networks among people.

Mariko Nakajima
(中島 真理子)

University: Waseda University
Faculty: Faculty of Education
Department: Department of Education, Primary Education Major
Year: 2nd Year


Message:
The Expo is a place where various “opportunities” are born. As students, I believe it is our mission to seize these opportunities and shape our own paths. I will give my all to ensure this event becomes a place where opportunities are created, seized, and shaped!

Kaho Kumegawa
(久米川 夏穂)

University: Waseda University
Faculty: School of International Liberal Studies
Year: 2nd Year


Message:
Nice to meet you all! I have a strong interest in education and have been actively involved in creating learning spaces where young entrepreneurs can exchange ideas. I hope that everyone involved in the Osaka Expo will have moments where they discover new possibilities within themselves. It would be an honor to contribute to the co-creation of knowledge for the future through this event!

Akito Honda
(本田 瑛大)

University: Doshisha University
Faculty: Faculty of Sociology
Year: 1st Year

Message:
For me, 2025 will be a milestone year and a time of challenge. Through this project, I hope to create new discoveries and connections that will add inspiration and color not only to my own life but also to the lives of others. Instagram akito.honda.official

Kaishi Hamada
(濱田 快志)

University: Waseda University
Faculty: School of Political Science and Economics
Department: Department of Economics
Year: 1st Year


Message:
I love traveling. I always try to keep moving forward and take on challenges with a positive attitude. I’m excited to meet new people who will shape the future and to discover new possibilities through this Expo!

Ren Niimi
(新見 蓮)

University: Waseda University
Faculty: School of Social Sciences
Department: Department of Economics
Year: 3rd Year


Message:
Photographer / PR Planner.
Serving as an executive officer and business director at an education-focused impact startup, working to bridge opportunity and information gaps.At university, specializing in communication studies while traveling around the world to research the relationship between language, context, and advertising expression. Taking on the challenge of the complex and universal field of education as an impact startup, striving to create the future standard from the ground up.

Miku Amano 
(天野 実来)

University: Waseda University
Faculty: Faculty of Human Sciences
Department: Department of Human Informatics and Cognitive Sciences
Year: 1st Year


Message:
Since 2024, has been a member of the Beyond 2020 NEXT PROJECT.
Utilizing programming and 3DCG skills developed while attending N High School, they are independently working on the creation of websites and web applications, with the goal of eventually establishing a company.
They also developed a strong interest in the use of XR in education during high school, and are now actively engaged in initiatives aimed at creating a society without educational disparities.

 Koki Kaminaga
(神長 剛貴)

University: Keio University
Faculty: Faculty of Environment and Information Studies
Department: Department of Environment and Information Studies
Year: 3rd Year


Message:
I am truly honored to be involved in this Expo project.As a member of the next generation, I will do my utmost to contribute to creating a meaningful event, learning and growing together with many others along the way!

 Shirou Nakamura
(中村 獅良)

University: Waseda University
Faculty: School of Commerce
Year: 1st Year


Message:
I am truly grateful to have been given the opportunity to be involved in such a major event so soon after entering university!Currently, I am engaged in activities that promote the importance of peace through art.
I hope this event will also bring wonderful connections with many peers who have dreams of their own.
Thank you very much, and I look forward to being a part of it!

 

 Riri Nakaji 
(中路梨里)

School: Tokyo Gakugei University International Secondary School
Grade: Equivalent to 11th Grade (High School Year 2)


Message:
I am truly honored to have the opportunity to be involved in this event, especially as I have been personally looking forward to this Expo with great anticipation.Through this event, I hope to contribute—however modestly—to the theme of the Osaka Expo, "Designing Future Society for Our Lives," and will do my very best to support its success.

 

West Japan Contest ② in Osaka To be Announced

 

 

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