The Young Sustainability Professionals Career Development inspired over 60 attendees across the globe

On January 17, the Young Sustainability Professionals Career Development Event was held at Amazon Japan in Tokyo in collaboration with Japan Climate Leader’s Partnerships (JCLP). The event was kicked off with Opening Remarks by Audrey Yamamoto, President and CEO of the U.S.-Japan Council and Mr. Yuuki Ootaka, member of JCLP’s Young Task Force. Consisting of two sessions, the first session featured Mrs. Melanie Nakagawa (Chief Sustainability Officer at Microsoft) and Mr. Michael Kobori (former Chief Sustainability Officer at Starbucks) for a fireside chat moderated by Mr. Yasuo Tanabe (Senior Officer at the U.S.-Japan Council). With over 60 participants, the conversation touched on the fundamental aspects of nurturing a net-positive society: giving back to the environment more than we receive. 

Continuing, the second session welcomed two mentors for the in-person roundtable discussion. Ms. Ayako Kameda (Executive Officer at Obayashi Corporation) and Mr. Yoh Kawanami (Director at Hawaii Electric) shared their career stories and encouraged the younger generation to create peers and personalize the severity of the climate crisis, all while emphasizing the urgent need for action. 15 participants actively shared what they learned from the fireside chat and discussed what they can do to tackle global climate change. After lively discussion, the participants and mentors proceeded to a casual networking lunch.

“As Mr. Michael Kobori mentioned, we should collectively act to promote climate change action from the standpoint of our careers and specialization. As a college student, I also believe that we should enhance the connection on how sustainability measures can be taken within the scope of our majors and studies to challenge the assumption that climate change can only be combated from the field of science,” said Nina Takanami, TOMODACHI Initiative’s Social Media Intern.

Learn more about our Climate & Sustainability Initiative.