Tobitate Tales — Lessons from Mentoring Japan’s Future Leaders

When I was approached with the opportunity to mentor young Japanese students in networking, I eagerly accepted. The Japanese people have a special place in my heart. Like many who have been captivated by the charm of this unique nation, I regard it as my second home.

Tobitate (Leap for Tomorrow) is a study abroad initiative designed to enable Japanese students to undertake overseas studies. I find this project remarkable because I believe the world can immensely benefit from the values and insights of the Japanese. In 2011, His Majesty The King of Bhutan delivered a significant speech to the Japanese diet, lauding Japan’s global leadership. He commented, “This strength has seen Japan rise again and again, throughout history, from every setback to its status as one of the most successful nations in the world. And even more remarkable is the manner in which Japan has always, without hesitation, shared her success with people from all corners of the world.”

It was now my turn to share what little I knew about networking with the young leaders from Japan.

Every student I engaged with in this program was truly inspiring. I encountered a student combating global child abuse, an aspiring astronaut researching medicine for space radiation, and an entrepreneur giving old buildings and apartments a new purpose by transforming them into film studios. Their achievements were astounding, but expected, given they were among the best students from all over Japan.

I started each session by congratulating them on their selection as Tobitate scholars. Although we were roughly 4600 kms apart, our enthusiasm bridged the distance, making it feel like we were together. I then inquired about their primary apprehensions concerning their overseas studies. For many, this was their first overseas study program, and they naturally had concerns about forming new connections. With my entrepreneurial background and deep understanding of Japanese culture, I was well-versed in the challenges a typical Japanese individual might face when interacting with foreigners. I shared my personal experience of studying in Japan, where I initially struggled with the language barrier. Over time, I forged deep friendships. Years later, as an entrepreneur, I recognized the invaluable nature of a vibrant network. While capital and knowledge are essential, they need a dynamic network to synergize effectively. And of course, the depth of relationships is more crucial than their quantity. It was startling to discover that, according to Gallup Data, over 300 million people worldwide lack even a single friend — a statistic that continues to baffle me. We need to make friends.

I also emphasized the importance of young students seeking mentors — individuals with more experience — to guide them and help them avoid potential pitfalls. Then, a student raised concerns about interacting confidently with more seasoned individuals.

“But how can we confidently interact with elders who have more experience and knowledge than us? Why will they take us seriously? We feel we don’t bring anything of value to the conversation?”, the student asked.

I acknowledged that this feeling of doubt isn’t exclusive to Japanese youth. Many young individuals globally grapple with this dilemma. I was no exception. After some contemplation, I conveyed that while youth might lack age-acquired wisdom, they possess the zeal that defines their age. This passion is what we, the young people, bring to the table. And we must be confident because the sea to wisdom can only be sailed across on the boat of passion. My new friends were happy with my answer.

In my view, a mentor’s role isn’t merely to provide information or advice. It’s about empathetic listening and sharing narratives that mentees can derive meaning from. By tuning into their aspirations and recounting my adventures, I believe I received more than I imparted. The past months have been a period of profound growth for me. I’m deeply thankful to the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology (Japan) and the World Dream Project by World Road for this enriching experience, reinforcing my belief that the youth is NOT wasted on the young.

What’s Tobitate? https://tobitate.mext.go.jp/about/english.html

Seminar/workshop/program inquiry: info@worldroad.org

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