Third Phase of the TOMODACHI High School Women Career Mentoring Program Held in Tokyo

From December 20-21, 2014, the third phase of the TOMODACHI High School Women Career Mentoring Program in Fukushima was launched in Tokyo. Three young professional women from eight companies (which included employees from TOMODACHI’s strategic partners) participated in this phase of the program. The women shared their career paths and their life stories to-date, in addition to discussing their company’s role in society and what they have learned from their work experiences.

Participants presented their thoughts on the qualities of an effective and successful professional such as people to people connections, taking action, making an strong effort continuously, and trusting their peers. The presentations displayed the type of professionals that they may become.

The following are comments from participants about this program:

“Although I did not plan on working at a company, after I heard the stories, I realized that working is difficult but can be exciting and . I look forward to the future.”

“I learned the importance of taking on a challenge. I’ll do my best to be a successful professional and to achieve my dream”.

“I found out that if I lose my perspective, I will not be able to see the future. I have learned the value of time and the people to people connections that I currently have.”

Each of the participants seemed to find a role model, and it was a wonderful opportunity for them to take the next step.

The forth phase of this program will be held on January 31 and February 1, 2015. In this final phase, the participants will organize an event on February 1 for high school freshman and present what they learned to the students. The participants will share their stories about being inspired by the various people throughout this program.