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In this session 2, remarkable leaders from the various fields of the business world are gathering. We share the challenges of the “first” female bank president, and the “first” male VC who tries to promote DEI in the startup sector. Journalist, producer and students will also debate the truth behind the question, “Why does Japan always lag behind the world in diversity?” We will explore ways to solve problems and declare actions for the future.

【Reflection】
This session invited speakers representing three fields: career, entrepreneurship, and parenting. The speakers and participants exchanged many opinions on the theme of "How can we accelerate diversity in the business world?" and made a declaration of action together with facilitator Sachiko HABU.
The session began with a presentation of the results of a survey called "100 Voices" conducted by students from Ochanomizu University on three areas. This presentation was designed to identify differences in awareness between the adult generation and Generation Z, including students, with the aim of fostering mutual understanding across generations.
Speaking in the career field was Yuko Kawai, president of Kochi Bank, and in the entrepreneurship field was David Millstein, founder of the Startup DEI Promotion Council. The students gave presentations on their research, asking questions such as, "Do we need role models?" and "Is entrepreneurship an option for your career?" Kawai responded encouragingly, "There's no need for role models. I'm not naturally a leader; I just play the role."
David's slogan was "Speak Up!" and he declared, "If leaders speak up, things that women find difficult to say will gradually change. I want to see diversity at the level of leading companies take root in the entrepreneurial world as well."
Facilitator HABU pointed out that the root cause of the lack of female leaders in the business world is women’s hard work at housekeeping and raising children. Journalist Tamao Hosokawa and Shinnosuke Aida of Hakuhodo spoke on the topic. Students presented the results of a survey, stating that "women are forced to single-parenting due to stereotypes and a lack of cooperation from their partners."
In response, Aida declared, "There are an increasing number of men who enjoy raising children. I want to make this visible and spread the word." Hosokawa once again encouraged women of all generations, saying, "There are many jobs where you are the first woman to take on, but that's also why some aspects of the job are easier. Don't be afraid."
In a real-time online survey conducted at this event, more people said that being the first woman was fun than that it was scary, and Kawai and others shared the positive reality, saying that it was reassuring.
A major achievement was the realization that by exchanging opinions between different fields, such as business, entrepreneurs, government, and the media, which do not usually cross boundaries, honest dialogue can be stimulated, and mutual encouragement can be provided.

【Post EXPO Initiatives】
Through the "WA812" sessions at this Expo, I hope that each person's declarations will be put into action.
What is necessary for developing female leaders in companies is an awareness that enjoys being the "first woman" and does not cling too much to role models. In the startup world, leaders should take the lead in raising their voices about DEI. And within the home, which is the foundation of everything, we need to create a "society where we raise children together," rather than just mothers and daughters being responsible for housework and childcare. I hope that these declarations made by everyone will be put into action.
I think there are two important perspectives to consider when putting these ideas into practice.
Firstly, many projects on the gender gap and women's empowerment tend to be discussed and explored in depth within the same field. However, as with the success of this session, I've learned that it's important to "cross over different fields and share the knowledge and aspirations of leaders."
Another point I learned is that older generations should listen more to the voices of younger generations (those not yet in the workforce, such as university students). While there is a tendency to respect the voices of Generation Z in terms of marketing and business opportunities, the perspective of how younger generation’s view adults is often overlooked. I learned the importance of speaking frankly with each other, and I would like to continue doing so.