On June 14, 2025, the Graduate School of Leadership and Innovation, Shizenkan University, held its Class of 2025 graduation ceremony at its Nihonbashi campus in Tokyo. This year, 78 graduates — 43 from the Japanese class and 35 from the English class — celebrated their transition into the next chapter of their lives, surrounded by guests, faculty, family, and friends both onsite and online.
The ceremony was conducted in a hybrid format and proceeded bilingually in Japanese and English. True to the spirit of Shizenkan, it was a warm yet solemn occasion, embracing diversity and unity.
Opening Remarks and Keynote Speeches
Dr. Tomo Noda, President and Chair of the Board, opened the ceremony with a reflection on the past two years of learning and a heartfelt message for the graduates as they embark on new journeys.
Two keynote speakers then addressed the audience. First, H.E. Melba Pría, Ambassador of Mexico to Japan, delivered a heartfelt video message. She shared a personal story from her youth, reminding graduates that “even when life doesn’t go as planned, new paths will always open.” She emphasized the importance of lifelong learning in a rapidly changing society, and encouraged the graduates to pursue “true leadership” — the kind that inspires and unites people.
Next, Mr. Yasu Higuchi, President of Panasonic Connect Co., Ltd., spoke on Japan’s declining global competitiveness and the urgent need to adapt to change. He highlighted the importance of sensing shifts in the world, designing one’s own strategic approach, and possessing the leadership and organizational capabilities necessary to drive transformation.
Messages from Graduates: Three Keywords to Carry Forward
A central feature of the ceremony was the presentation of “three keywords” by each graduate — short speeches that reflect what they gained during their time at Shizenkan and the mindset they will carry into their leadership journeys. A few of the messages shared include:
“Humanism” — I believe the essence of humanity lies in empathy and connection. “Unity of subject and object” — I hope to reach this deeper state of being in the future. And “Integrity” — rather than simply living skillfully, I prefer to live truthfully.
“Understanding” — not just gathering information, but truly knowing others’ values and perspectives. “Imagination” — creating not just products, but positive societal change. And “Challenge” — having the courage to act on these ideas.
I’ll be stepping into the role of Representative Director for my organization next week. The three words I want to give myself are: “Dialogue,” “Resilience,” and “Empathy.” I believe I wouldn’t have accepted this responsibility without my learning at Shizenkan. I want to continue walking alongside my classmates.
The metaphor “crossing the swamp,” taught in class, has stayed with me. What’s essential is to maintain “integrity” so others can trust and support me; to embody “discipline,” standing firm even in difficult moments; and to keep sharing a collective “vision” of the world we seek to create.
For the past 20 months, I’ve been asking myself what leadership truly means. I’ve come to believe that the most important thing is “conviction,” which stems from a sincere “wish.” Inspired by the words of Shinran — “faith is born of aspiration” — I now see ongoing “learning” as the foundation for sustaining that conviction. This is my personal commitment as a leader.
Looking Ahead: Alumni Leadership and Final Words
Toward the end of the ceremony, alumni secretaries from both the Japanese and English programs took the stage to express their commitment to fostering a vibrant alumni network and supporting one another’s continued growth.
Finally, Ms. Sandra Wu, Chair of the Shizenkan Board of Councilors, delivered an inspiring message, encouraging the graduates to take on the challenges of the future together with the community they have built at Shizenkan.
To all graduates — congratulations! May your journey as leaders be filled with purpose, growth, and meaningful impact on the world.
