PROJECT MEMBER | DRIVE MYSELF PROJECT

Designer

Risa

Self introduction

Born in 2001 in Los Angeles, USA.
I spent my early childhood in Los Angeles until I was 3 and then lived in Dallas between 6 and 11 years old.
After developing an interest in art from a young age, I decided to pursue a career in design, leading to my enrollment in the Product Design course at Tama Art University in 2020. I studied various disciplines, including product design, service design, UX/UI, and graphic design at TAU.
In the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, I served as a volunteer at the skateboarding competition. Then, in 2022, I became a Fuji Seal Foundation scholar and also received the Japan Package Design Student Award. I also interned at Panasonic, KEYENCE, Sony, and Fujifilm. After graduation, I will work as a creator at CyberAgent, Inc.

What drives you ?

“Inspiration and new discoveries”
I feel fulfilled when I can help others experience joy as I seek inspiration and new discoveries in my daily life. While tangible forms of beauty are undoubtedly essential, I believe that empathizing with people's emotions and well-being is crucial in the creative process. I want to break free from conventional thinking while exploring and imagining new values. By embracing a flexible mindset and giving my all to what I love, I aspire to create designs that enrich people's lives while making them more vibrant and fulfilling.

How do you want to change
through DRIVE MYSELF PROJECT?

I'd like to gain new perspectives and make new discoveries throughout this project. This will be my first time participating in this kind of challenge, and unlike my usual university assignments, the DRIVE MYSELF PROJECT involves collaborating with people from various disciplines. I hope to create something that can only be achieved by working in a team, something that goes beyond my creative capabilities as an individual.

The insights, discoveries, and changes you want to make as a result of your participation.

Participating in this ideathon made me realize the wide range of ways people can interpret mobility. In my team, we explored the concept of scent-based mobility experiences, which was completely unrelated to vehicles, and it turned out to actually be a very practical idea, especially considering recent technological advancements in the field. In the future, creating emotionally appealing concepts that create rich experiences will become increasingly important when making products. I believe we were able to create something that aligns what is possible now. While we couldn't delve into the details during the ideathon, I hope to refine the concept and incorporate my strengths, particularly in styling, to bring the idea to life!

Digital Creator

Neon Takase

Self introduction

Born in 2003.
The founder of N-Sign Works.
During high school, I began my journey as a creator after launching the creative project “N-Sign Works” under the concept of making a “dazzling creation.”
Currently, I partake in a wide range of activities, not just limited to videos, but also encompassing music production and photography. As a digital creator, I embrace the notion of “Destroying Preconceptions,” approaching the art of my predecessors from multiple angles such as video, music, design, and photography to redefine them in the digital realm.

What drives you ?

"Redefining Preconceptions/Inferiority Complex"
Self-esteem can become a driving force for wanting to change your current situation. I had a hard time dealing with people during my school days, but by embracing my inferiority complex, I was able to transform it into a driving force that propels me forward as a creator and enables me to engage in creative activities.

How do you want to change
through DRIVE MYSELF PROJECT?

As a member of the next generation who will create our future, I want to manifest the changes we want to bring to the world and create a rich society with ideas that only creators can conceive. We, the next generation, aspire to a future where we can bring about transformations that are beyond imagination.

The insights, discoveries, and changes you want to make as a result of your participation.

I don't really travel often, so it took me a bit of time to visualize what a "personal mobility experience" was. However, while brainstorming with many diverse creators and discussing our ideas, I discovered the joy and importance of using mobility to experience a change of scenery. My perspective on mobility experiences changed significantly during the ideathon. Moving forward, I would like to collaborate with Nissan and my teammates to bring the ideas we had during the ideation session to life.

Photographer

LILI

Self introduction

Born in 1996. I studied architecture as a specialty at a technical college for seven years, starting from my first year of high school, and later joined a major private railway company. After going through four job changes, I currently do housing design, creative work, and photography at my fifth company. I also work as a photographer capturing people, architecture, and objects.
Currently, I am focusing on supporting entrepreneurs and individual activists by engaging in photography to contribute to expanding their visibility. I incorporate the perspectives and sensibilities acquired from my architectural studies into my photography work, creating a unique artistic vision.

What drives you ?

"Helping others"
There are many talented creators and entrepreneurs in the world. However, these days, it is not an exaggeration to say that without utilizing social media, it is difficult to get noticed. Therefore, along with have a technical skill set, proficiency in social media and marketing has also become essential. I feel frustrated about this situation. I strongly want talented individuals to be recognized by more people, and, as a photographer, I want to use my skills to help get them exposure in even a small way.

How do you want to change
through DRIVE MYSELF PROJECT?

I want to bring about changes that allow me to showcase new thoughts and aspects of myself that I haven't yet seen. I want to gain new perspectives, shatter my own fixed notions, and gain new insights. Therefore, I decided to participate in this project. I believe that this Ideathon can give me new drive. Through this project, I hope to find the momentum to power my future endeavors and become even more passionate.

The insights, discoveries, and changes you want to make as a result of your participation.

I was amazed at the diverse range of opinions and ideas centered around mobility that people came up with. Each participant had their own unique concept of mobility. I believe that by looking at mobility from various perspectives, we will be able to really improve the future.

Eventer

AOI

Self introduction

Born in 2000. A senior majoring in International Tourism at Toyo University.
I have swum for 10 years and competed in the national tournament during middle school. In high school, I joined the lacrosse team and was ranked in the top four at nationals. Currently, I am a member of a social lacrosse team. My hobby is snowboarding.
After entering university, I dedicated myself to academics and extracurricular activities, engaging in collaborations between the industry and academia and long-term internships. I enjoy planning and organizing events, primarily hosting chill-out events in Tokyo. I seek out exciting experiences, such as staying in guesthouses and embarking on solo trips. I will start working as a new graduate in spring 2024.

What drives you ?

"Consideration and curiosity"
Throughout my life, I've firmly believed that happiness has come from meeting and connecting with others. Every interaction with someone at every place I visit is filled with their consideration, and the reason I go those places is because I get excited about it. This insatiable curiosity to know more and explore further always drives me forward. The opportunities to experience the caring thoughts of others and this strong sense of curiosity have intertwined, and they have been the driving force behind who I am today!

How do you want to change
through DRIVE MYSELF PROJECT?

I want to make a change by shedding the shyness within me and expressing my 'true self.' Since I enjoy visiting guesthouses and traveling alone, I decided to participate in this ideathon. I believe this is an opportunity for me to showcase my authenticity. I hope this project will give me an opportunity to direct my activities better in my future!

The insights, discoveries, and changes you want to make as a result of your participation.

In this ideathon, I worked on connecting what I specialize in and what I want to do with mobility in order to think of new ideas. I felt really excited the whole time. Reflecting on my own work and rethinking what I've done from a new perspective made me feel excited about the past, present, and future. I was able to solidify my own values. I want to integrate these values into my future plans, take action based on what I want to do, and strive to make an impact on the world, even if it's just a small one.

Architecture Student

AKITO

Self introduction

Born in the year 2000 and hailing from the Tohoku region, I am anv architecture student currently studying in Tokyo. I embrace the concept of 'architecture×〇〇' and operate an outreach account called 'sfida for design' (with 13,000 followers), which delves into architecture from multiple perspectives. While pursuing my studies in architecture at university, I achieved a Level 1 certification in psychology examination in my junior year. I am currently exploring new design methodologies that involve analyzing and deducing architecture scientifically from the viewpoint of the user's psychology. On my personal account, I disseminate information about making architecture and everyday spaces more comfortable based on user psychology.

What drives you ?

"To See and Create the Unseen World"
I aspire to lead a life where I can combine research and analysis with design. This is because I come from Tohoku area and experienced the 2011 Great East Japan Earthquake when I was 11 years old. Through volunteering to support people living in shelters, I witnessed the dramatic improvement in mental health thanks to a system created by an architect. From that experience, I realized that architecture has the power not only to design what is visible but also to address the unseen aspects. That potential motivates me.

How do you want to change
through DRIVE MYSELF PROJECT?

Rather than seeking change, I'd like to further accelerate my personal growth. Through communication with the other participants in this project, as well as interactions with the guests during events, I hope to discover aspects I might have overlooked until now and recreate myself into a new version of me.

The insights, discoveries, and changes you want to make as a result of your participation.

I used to be a pretty logical person. In this ideathon, I realized that to give shape to ideas and make them resonate with others, it's necessary to be logical while also appealing to people's emotions. As mentioned in Nakajima-san's talk, if we can fulfill our wishes via technology, then I feel that logic plays a role similar to technology. Personally, as someone who creates things and services, I want to improve myself and combine logic with my strengths in architecture and psychology while adding the kind of proactive approach that Ory-san embodies-being someone who doesn't hesitate to take action immediately when they decide to create something. So, after thinking and taking action during the ideathon, I went home and started drawing up plans. Haha.

Inventor

Inventor Ricky

Self introduction

17 years of inventing experience.
I am aiming to become the world's greatest inventor (the 21st century's Da Vinci) by engaging in a cycle of imaginative and creative activities amidst curiosity and exploration. Born in 2001.
Keio University's Faculty of Environment and Information Studies.
3rd place in the WEIN CHALLENGERS PITCH 2020.
Silver Award at the Keio SFC Society's 19th Academic Exchange Convention.
DMM.make startup program.
100BANCH.
Currently, I am challenging myself to realize a world where fantasies become reality, with a focus on both researching the theory of invention and putting invention into practice.

What drives you ?

"Vast Curiosity and an Insatiable Thirst for Knowledge"
Since childhood, I have always enjoyed wondering about how things can be accomplished. Later on, this curiosity became intertwined with questions about why things are the way they are. Fundamental inquiries like 'why' and 'how' prompted me to reevaluate my surroundings and opened up new possibilities. Why is Leonardo da Vinci considered a universal genius? I think that's because of his pure curiosity and relentless pursuit of knowledge. I think the world's best inventor has boundless imagination and creates based on limitless possibilities while thinking outside the box. I believe this boundless curiosity and thirst for knowledge will lead me to uncharted territories, ultimately paving the way towards realizing a future that is yet to be discovered.

How do you want to change
through DRIVE MYSELF PROJECT?

I want to examine how effective inventions are in co-creation with others and position the concept of "invention" at a place where it interacts with society. This is because I believe that "inventions" are still strongly associated with solitary, lonely inventors. In this era of big science and open innovation, I want to see how inventors effectively co-create with society. Additionally, I want to identify the elements of co-creation that are essential for creating a world where fantasies can become reality.

The insights, discoveries, and changes you want to make as a result of your participation.

I was able to really apply the essence of the inventions that I've made for the first time in a workshop. The insights I gained during the event really reaffirmed the impact my inventions could have, and I learned how to position discussions and how to view what each person is talking about from their perspective. If you want to invent something without restrictions, you can live alone in the mountains, but the act of creating while collaborating with others makes you reconsider a lot. The ideas that can emerge from our connections with others is key. Even things that I would usually do alone can have a greater impact and lead to more motivation if I work on it with others. That's why I believe that by somehow systematizing the invention landscape I experienced at this ideathon, we can elevate the invention process even further, and, in the future, I want to recreate the process so that it is more receptive to reevaluation.

Student Nomad

Yuzu-chan

Self introduction

Born on March 1, 2000. I belong to the Faculty of Education and Human Sciences at Aoyama Gakuin University.
Nomadic college student.
In 2020, I utilized crowdfunding to embark on a journey around Japan where I conducted interviews with guest houses during the pandemic and wrote a book about their stories.
As part of the Tobitate! Study Abroad JAPAN program, I studied community events at a university in the U.K.

After experiencing traveling without having to take a break from my studies thanks to online classes, I sought to spread the concept of "detours" as a cultural endeavor. This led me to organize the "Universe University" initiative at Panasonic's accelerator facility, 100BANCH.

What drives you ?

"Detours"
My life has been shaped by detours. My life really began at a guest house in Thailand that lead to a journey visiting various guest houses, traveling to war-stricken areas during my studies in the U.K., and exploring parks near my home.
I chose this word because my life started moving in places I casually visited without any specific purpose and now I'm committed to sharing these experiences.

How do you want to change
through DRIVE MYSELF PROJECT?

"Movement" is a keyword for me. While I have engaged in activities such as promoting guest houses, researching community spaces, and building websites to mapped my life's turning points, it's only recently that I've been able to articulate the overarching term "detours." I believe that beyond the advantages of convenience and efficiency, promoting the value of serendipitous travel experiences can transform societal values even if only slightly. I aim to facilitate this transformation while fostering personal growth.

The insights, discoveries, and changes you want to make as a result of your participation.

I've always been conscious of destinations when researching detours, but I never considered the means of transportation that serve as a way to get there. Through this ideathon, I started thinking about mobility as an experience, and it made me wonder if creating something like this could bring me closer to the future I imagine. I'm thankful to the ideathon for making me consider this path.

Eccentric Device Creator

FUSHI

Self introduction

Born in Kyoto in 2000.
Currently studying at Keio University.
A member of X-Music Lab.
I create works that allow people to journey into the world of imagination through sound. One of my notable works, "SoundObservation," exhibited at SpaceArt, facilitates the observation of stars through sound and was selected for the Yamanashi Media Art Awards and won the Grand Prize at the Gakugei Exhibition. Other works include "Sound Airport," a social media platform for exchanging environmental sounds, and "Moving Auricle," a device for a new auditory experience using the earlobe. Additionally, I am engaged in various activities such as proposing new kamishibai (paper theater) performances, participating in space outreach organizations, developing devices to make sweets more enjoyable, and selling digital art. My activities span a wide range of fields.

What drives you ?

"Unknown Universe"
I really love the universe. Ever since I was little, I was captivated by the starry sky, and that fascination led me to become enthralled by the universe. I find the most interesting aspect of the universe to be the infinite unknown worlds it holds. It's like an endless canvas for imagination, where I can paint possible worlds and take someone there with the power of my imagination. It's this motivation that drives me to keep creating and exploring.

How do you want to change
through DRIVE MYSELF PROJECT?

I'd like to expand the scope of my collaborations and engagement with the world. Instead of just presenting my works through exhibitions and presentations, I'd like to widen the scope of my creativity and ideas through social interaction. I hope this gives me an opportunity to expand my future endeavors.

The insights, discoveries, and changes you want to make as a result of your participation.

In this ideathon, I was able to rediscover the benefits of vehicles and the physical aspect of mobility. Until now, many of the things I created didn't move much, and I placed greater importance on "mental mobility." However, through this ideathon, I was able to reconsider the advantages of physical mobility. I want to explore the connections between physical mobility and my overall theme, "sound and imagination."

Matcha Creator

Matcha Airi

Self introduction

Born in 2001.
Until my second year of high school, I wanted to earnestly become a singer. However, at some point, I became determined to revolutionize the world through matcha. After entering university, I moved between share houses and guest houses across the country. I managed a women-only share house in Tokyo, lived in an entrepreneur-focused share house, and served as an ambassador for a share house in Osaka. Concurrently, I participated in the Fresh Campus Contest 2020, a nationwide contest that selects top freshman, in order to expand my activities on social media. Subsequently, I joined a new contest in 2021 called "Do You Believe Dreams Come True?" and became a finalist.
At the age of 19, I started my own business as a sole proprietor. As my final challenge of my teenage years, I documented a 100-day journey of creating a matcha-scented perfume under the name "The College Student Creating Matcha Perfume in 100 Days" on TikTok, sharing the process until the perfume was successfully completed. During this period, I also organized and hosted limited-time matcha cafe events for over 200 people in total, as well as networking events. I received a special award at the Student Evangelist Awards 2021 and participated as staff in IVS2021 Nasu and IVS2023 Kyoto events.
Moreover, I regularly hold tea factory tours and events related to matcha. Currently, I am in the process of preparing to launch a matcha-scented perfume for sale through crowdfunding.

What drives you ?

"Using matcha to captivate the world"

My unwavering love for matcha has given me the ability to consistently share about matcha on social media even though I struggle with this kind of thing.
Green has stealthily permeated not only my lifestyle but also my appearance-from my hair and nails to my clothes and accessories.
I wouldn't be myself without matcha.

How do you want to change
through DRIVE MYSELF PROJECT?

I want to create a chemical reaction that I can't achieve alone.

The insights, discoveries, and changes you want to make as a result of your participation.

Through this ideathon I had realized a lot of things I already basically understood but couldn't put into words. One key insight I had was about the importance of emotions, despite how significant logical thinking is. Whether it's a product or a service, ultimately, it's created and used by people. In our modern world that prioritizes convenience, I realized that I shouldn't overlook my own emotions and senses. Additionally, what a guest speaker said, "what you can't do becomes valuable," left a strong impression on me. The idea of turning negative aspects into positive ones is something I want to incorporate into my lifestyle in the future.

Filmmaker

TATSUKI
OHNO

Self introduction

Born in Mie Prefecture in 1998.
Graduated from Takachiho University and Digital Hollywood STUDIO.
In 2022, I left Suprieve Holdings Co., Ltd. and now serve as the representative of Suproom Co., Ltd. I'm currently active as a filmmaker. During my childhood, I was diagnosed with developmental disorders. Leveraging my hyperactivity and the intense focus that came with my developmental disorders, I was able to excel. In my fourth year of university, I was selected as the Best Designer in the Suprieve Business Planning Contest 2021. Later, my design capabilities were recognized, and I began my journey in video production in 2022. Presently, I work as a filmmaker, handling production and direction for influencers and companies alike.

What drives you ?

"To become someone like no other"
I don't have a strong reason for it, but it's something I always keep in mind.
During my student years, good grades were given to students who listened to their teachers and excelled in studies, and those who balanced both academics and extracurricular activities were highly regarded.
In high school, when I heard Keyakizaka 46's "Silent Majority," I realized that what teachers and parents said wasn't necessarily the only truth. What mattered was living true to oneself. Since then, I've intentionally gone against the grain, valuing the idea of "doing things differently from others and accentuating one's strengths." I coined this term and it has always served as my encouragement.

How do you want to change
through DRIVE MYSELF PROJECT?

Conviction. Since my days as a repeater preparing for college entrance exams, I had dreams of starting a business. However, during my time as a university student, I gained various experiences through internships and part-time jobs, and gradually lost confidence in myself. This led me to decide to pursue a traditional job when I was a fourth-year student. Although I found employment, it wasn't aligned with what I truly wanted to do, and I grew dissatisfied with myself.
During this period of inner turmoil, my parents told me, "You should do what you really want to do," which gave me the courage to leave my job. Thanks to that, I am now able to work in video production. However, I still feel a sense of unease at times, as I've stepped off the conventional path and see my peers who are still working in regular jobs.
I joined this event in order to dispel such uncertainties and transform them into a "conviction" that makes me believe I'm on the right track. Currently involved in video production, I aspire to become an entrepreneur who uses video as a foundation to launch my own business.

The insights, discoveries, and changes you want to make as a result of your participation.

At first, I didn't even see the necessity behind mobility. You can order things on Amazon, communicate with distant friends through Zoom, and then the COVID-19 pandemic showed that a lot of work can be done from home. I thought that by minimizing the need for mobility when it comes to having fun, working, and shopping, we could shift our appraoch in a way that sustains the economy. However, I was surprised by my team members' opinion that the value of mobility wouldn't increase without the feeling of excitement. They said that you can't experience the joy of meeting people or the fun of being together when you're limited to interacting virtually or at home. This made me realize that we really can discover new value in mobility.

Social Activist

HANA

Self introduction

Born in 2004 and from Akita, I am a third-year student (currently on leave) at a specialized university majoring in Information Management and Innovation. With the vision of achieving a society where everyone's individuality is respected, I founded the student organization "Cue" in April 2022. Through organizing events and creating videos, I engage in activities aimed at providing opportunities to learn about diverse perspectives.

Currently, I am involved in creating a café that offers support for people facing difficulties, as well as establishing communities centered around social issues.

What drives you ?

"Exciting Possibilities"
We can become anything and go anywhere! No one knows what our future holds, or what will happen next. But the actions we take are up to us. That's why we hold nothing but possibilities and hope in our hands, and they're filled with excitement! Life is an adventure!!!

How do you want to change
through DRIVE MYSELF PROJECT?

Through the DRIVE MYSELF PROJECT, I’d like to become someone's hope somewhere in this world. I sometimes feel that just by being true to ourselves, we might unknowingly become someone else's hope. In fact, I've been inspired numerous times by a close friend who lives her life authentically and receive energy from it. Now, I want to be the person who can deliver hope to others by expressing myself as I am.

The insights, discoveries, and changes you want to make as a result of your participation.

I believe that this ideation session has been a significant catalyst for me to really contemplate the intricacies around mobility. It isn't just a means of transportation; it exists to fulfill our desires beyond the act of moving itself. It has led me to hypothesize that maybe we can't satisfy our emotions without mobility. Through both physical and mental mobility, I wonder if people can feel fulfilled and that the world might become a happier and more peaceful place.

Expressionist

Hanasuetomi

Self introduction

Born in 2002. I am a Meiji University student with a keen interest in entertainment and art. I study media art at university as I explore various forms of expression like acting and dancing. I took on the role of a curator to organize Meiji University's first-ever student exhibition. Additionally, I create conceptual art pieces of my own.

What drives you ?

"Communication"
I have a strong interest in communication, and my creative activities are centered around this theme. I've always struggled with understanding others, and from the experiences of clashing with people due to a lack of mutual understanding, I've come to live with a value system centered around the concept of "unfathomable understanding." Communication in forms like customer service, art, and visuals drives me.

How do you want to change
through DRIVE MYSELF PROJECT?

I want to learn about new perspectives through interacting with people I wouldn't normally encounter as we co-create together.

The insights, discoveries, and changes you want to make as a result of your participation.

I've developed an interest in looking outside my specialties and engaging with people who are skilled in these areas. Vehicles initially seemed like something outside my areas of expertise, but I was actually able to think of a really exciting idea and felt really happy and refreshed. Now I'm excited to generate new ideas by combining different specialties and fields together!

Social Entrepreneur

Moeto Yamauchi

Self introduction

Born in Hamamatsu City, Shizuoka Prefecture in 2000.
Currently on leave from the Department of Behavioral Informatics at Shizuoka University. Selected as a member for the Tokyo University EDGE-NEXT Entrepreneurship Program's 2018 Silicon Valley training. A MAKERS UNIVERSITY 5th batch student. In 2019, I founded Gab Inc. with the mission to "drastically lower the threshold for solving social issues." Currently in my fourth term.

What drives you ?

"Maximizing the number of thank yous"
During my middle and high school years, when I struggled to fit in with school and club activities, I experienced a sense of "helplessness" that led to moments of despair. Through these experiences, I realized that my happiness came from a "sense of contributing" to others. I aspire to become someone who is needed and appreciated by many people. I aim to create ventures that contribute to achieving SDGs and thereby create more thank yous in this world.

How do you want to change
through DRIVE MYSELF PROJECT?

I started a business as a means to make myself happy while working on solving social issues.
I believe that there are infinite ways to be happy, I'd like to find new perspectives that leads to "maximizing the amount of thank yous" through this project.

The insights, discoveries, and changes you want to make as a result of your participation.

I was reminded that to revolutionize the mobility experience, it's not just about designing cars but also considering various external factors like roads, laws, and ethical issues. Having a lot of ideas is one thing, but it's important to figure out how to actually implement them in society. I learned that both startups and large companies can face challenges when trying to progress beyond this point. Therefore, when creating a prototype, bringing ideas out of your mind and onto paper and having discussions while expanding your imagination is crucial.

Designer

RINO

Self introduction

Born in 2003. From my fourth year of elementary school, I attended the Ito Toyoaki Children's Architecture School led by architect Toyo Ito for two years. During high school, I was part of a digital photography course in Switzerland for a short-term study abroad experience. I also participated in GAKU, a program focused on "giving form to one's interests," and learned special sculptural techniques under the guidance of sculptor Hiroshi Katagiri.
Currently, I'm studying architectural design at Japan Women's University. Since 2022, I have been interning at the design department of K-BALLET, led by Tetsuya Kumagawa. I've been learning to play the violin since I was three years old. Additionally, I've developed original iPhone apps.

What drives you ?

"Intense Curiosity"
I really like words like "waste" and "detour." On the other hand, I dislike the constant pursuit of profit and gain at the expense of everything else. While it's important to assess what I lack and what I need, I believe that the path guided by my own curiosity, without resisting it, leads to vivid encounters. That's why what drives me is a simple, straightforward curiosity born from intuition and desire.

How do you want to change
through DRIVE MYSELF PROJECT?

Just as this project's theme suggests, I hope to always be at the starting point, finding inspiration that will enrich myself and keep my foot on the accelerator. Many people could start running with just a little more courage, yet most hesitate and wait for someone else to will push them forward. I want to believe in my intuition and experiences, and live in an era where I can live freely and confidently.

The insights, discoveries, and changes you want to make as a result of your participation.

Through this ideathon, I learned that emotions are intricately intertwined with mobility experiences. The creation of cars and bullet trains, for example, began with simple desires like wanting to move quickly or meet someone even a second sooner. I believe that if there were mobility experiences that could really embody our sense of self, where you can say "This is how I want to be" or "This is what I want to do," it would naturally serve as a trigger, stimulating your sense of self and leading to meeting new people.

“AnoNatsuwoToriModose Project” Founder

YUTO

Self introduction

I am a third-year student majoring in Entrepreneurship at Musashino University. Since elementary school, I've been captivated by baseball and have been involved in the sport for many years. However, during the final summer of my high school years, the cancellation of the Koshien tournament due to the pandemic left me feeling as if I had lost even my will to keep living.
Driven by a desire to influence people to create positive impact on society, I established VEL LLC during my first year of university. In August 2022, I launched the "Regain That Summer Project." Presently, I am actively engaged in this project, striving to bring back cherished memories of summer and a sense of hope to individuals from all walks of life.

What drives you ?

"Bringing Back That Summer with 1000 Former Baseball Players!"
We are holding the "Regain That Summer Project" with 1000 former high school baseball players who lost the chance to experience Koshien three years ago!

How do you want to change
through DRIVE MYSELF PROJECT?

I want to drive myself further. With limited knowledge and experience, I just try to do what I can. I believe that's all I can do. But it's because I took that approach seriously that I am where I am now. I want to talk about my dreams more and take on challenges. I want to live life that way!

The insights, discoveries, and changes you want to make as a result of your participation.

At first, I could only conceive movement as things that I personally use, like cars, airplanes, and trains. However, as I brainstormed with my team members, I reconsidered the fundamental nature of mobility. For instance, many ideas emerged that I had never imagined before, such as "moving brains between people" or "transporting scents and music." I realized how narrow my perspective was and felt I lacked creativity.

Rainbow World Producer

Rainbow

Self introduction

Born in 2005. I have been involved in various groups and projects since the beginning of high school. Currently, I am part of a project called "Love Hotel Innovation," and I am also involved in event management in Shimokitazawa, where I live. While I haven't established any formal organizations yet, I have been personally engaged in organizing festivals and events. Moving forward, I intend to further develop and specialize in these areas.

What drives you ?

"To be a rainbow for those I'll meet again someday"
My dream is to become a rainbow. I want to be a symbol of hope when someone is wandering in the rain, so I want to remain rainbow-like both in appearance and in my heart. Many important people have contributed to shaping who I am today.
Sometimes I feel frustrated with others, but they're still all precious to me. The people I will meet in the future will surely be important as well.

How do you want to change
through DRIVE MYSELF PROJECT?

I want to bring about changes that allow me to take a step into my own world. It might sound a bit self-centered, but since it's the DRIVE MYSELF PROJECT, I want to dedicate time to create some kind of transformation within myself. This time I want to focus on making my own desires clear, defining the world I want to create, and bringing about changes within myself to achieve that.

The insights, discoveries, and changes you want to make as a result of your participation.

Participating in an ideation session like this and connecting with amazing people about the same age as me was a great experience, and honestly it was really fun! I felt like, with my teammates, we could create something extraordinary, and I also thought that this is probably the best place for Gen-Z to gather! Creating connections while discussing mobility experiences while turning it into ideas was really satisfying, especially because it's so different from what I usually do. It's good to confront topics that I don't usually engage with because creates new realizations and discoveries. Speaking of presentations, I was already interested in Tsuji-san's work, so I was delighted to meet her, and Ory-san, who I got to know through this experience, was simply amazing. Our specialties may be completely different, but it was a very valuable opportunity to find ways to connect and interact with people different from me.

Life Architectural Collective

SAMPO

Self introduction

SAMPO Inc. is a life architectural collective that activates people and cities. We provide people with life through spaces, events, videos, and various media forms. We are conscious of the "living" BeBop. We carefully turn the dial, seeking that unique rhythm. What we offer is not just a "mobile home," but everything related to human activities: thoughts, actions, clothing, objects, sounds, and more. When these elements fit together like well-aligned gears, it ensures a "healthy and culturally enriched minimum standard of living."

What drives you ?

"Encounters with New Stories Born from Unpredictable Combinations"
Our approach to creation is "Bricolage." We bring together objects from different times and places to weave new narratives. The process of finding the one unique possibility that fits perfectly among infinite combinations is akin to searching for a single diamond in the desert sands. And yet, it carries an air of naturalness, as if that form had been there from the beginning. Our driving force lies in the encounters with the new stories that await at the end of such boundless endeavors.

How do you want to change
through DRIVE MYSELF PROJECT?

We propose new lifestyles to the world by co-creating with other industries. In our collaboration with NISSAN, we proposed a "lifestyle where living is enough." The cutting-edge technology provided by NISSAN was truly innovative for us. We hope that our creations can serve as inspiration for NISSAN's future vehicle manufacturing as well.
By actively engaging in cross-industry collaborations like this, we aim to expand our horizons and contribute to many industries.

The insights, discoveries, and changes you want to make as a result of your participation.

We realized that cars are living beings. The intricate network of pipes within the engine resembles blood vessels, and the complex inner mechanisms are like organs. The careful dismantling of these pieces is like "hunting for car parts." It's unprecedented to use the components, the beating heart, of mobility technology that has been built upon by our predecessors since time of horse-drawn carriages as building materials. In that sense, Aura strongly believes that this has become a revolutionary work in both mobility and architecture.

Artist / Material Researcher

SAKAMOTO
ENTERTAINMENT

Self introduction

Born in 1997 in Kumamoto Prefecture. Graduated from Tama Art University's Integrated Design Department. I research materials and reexamine objects from new perspectives to incorporate them into design and art.
Finalist in the muni Art Award 2022. Selected for Art Olympia 2022. Selected for the Nagatei GALLERY Exhibition 2022. Selected for the SHIBUYA AWARDS 2021. Excellence Award in the 3rd KYOBASHI ART WALL art competition.

What drives you ?

"Intuition and Curiosity"
By touching materials, I am able to intuitively understand their characteristics and envision how they could be utilized. I carry out my creative process based on this. Exploring this process is incredibly enjoyable, allowing me to continue creating without forcing it.

How do you want to change
through DRIVE MYSELF PROJECT?

By co-creating with other companies and artists, I anticipate the emergence of new materials, ways to utilize materials, and the creation of stimulating works that wouldn't be possible through individual efforts alone. Through communication and co-creation, there are more possibilities than I would be able to see just as an individual.

The insights, discoveries, and changes you want to make as a result of your participation.

By participating in the workshop, I gained a fresh perspective on materials and their characteristics. Unlike when I create traditional art, I was required to work within a set time frame and use specified materials. These constraints redefined my preconceptions and provided me with an opportunity to engage with the materials more deeply. I became more aware of the properties and limitations of the materials, and by exploring how to leverage them, the range of how I express things grew significantly. From now on, I want to keep prioritizing creativity and flexibility and I also want to work towards incorporating new perspectives and ideas into my daily life.

Creative Director / Bassist

ONOKORO
aoi kitsuki

Self introduction

Born in 1999. Currently studying at Chiba University Graduate School of Architecture.
I began full-scale activities with the band "Kagi wo Kaese" in 2020, and co-founded "HIZUMI" in 2022, participating as a Creative Director/Designer (R&D). I've experienced internships at architectural firms, major advertising agencies, and a telecommunication carrier. Currently I am interning at Loftwork Inc. I am active in the fields of design, music, and architecture and have been selected for awards such as the GOOD DESIGN NEW HOPE AWARD and the IPA (Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry) Unexplored Projects.

What drives you ?

"Being true to my soul"
I am trying to prove the idea that "even in meaningless things, there is meaning.". Even if my works lack societal significance or deep meaning, I believe that work that genuinely excites people (like by creating a sense of excitement for the unknown or other intriguing sensations) are the ones that I myself am excited to create.
I believe that my own eccentricities can serve as a catalyst to excite others as well. I believe that the works and activities I create while being true to my soul can spark excitement somewhere in the world beyond myself.

How do you want to change
through DRIVE MYSELF PROJECT?

I believe that even without a specific meaning, it's possible to excite oneself and others by "gathering and repairing." In other words, instead of focusing on problem-solving, I think it would be wonderful if we could create value based on what everyone wants to do. I personally love collaborations that harness the collective knowledge of the friends I've met. Let's create something together!

The insights, discoveries, and changes you want to make as a result of your participation.

I feel a lot more enthusiastic about rapid prototyping. Though digital creations have become more popular recently, I find bringing these things into the real world really enjoyable. So, I want to focus on expanding what I can create both physically and digitally and continue to push the boundaries. Also, I often think about what it is that drives me, but it was eye-opening to learn what motivates other members. It feel like I learned a lot and now I feel even more motivated.

Artist

Seiya Kaji

Self introduction

Born in 1996. From Murakami City, Niigata Prefecture. Graduated from the Department of Fine Arts and Crafts at the Nagaoka Institute of Design.
Since my university days, I've been providing artworks to various regions. Currently, I am an artist based in Tochio, Nagaoka City, Niigata Prefecture, specializing in creating life-sized animals using discarded materials. I inherit the legacy of people embedded in the discarded wood I get from places like construction companies and restaurants and transform these materials into animals where blood circulates, muscles contract, and fur sways. Employing the techniques inherited from my grandfather, a carpenter, and meticulously calculating skeletal proportions, I pursue both exceptional strength and aesthetic beauty in my creations.

What drives you ?

"Just give it a try for now. The discussions can come later."
My motto is "Become what you do; if you don't do it, you won't become it." While it's important to think through things and be well-prepared before starting, I believe that diving into what's right in front of you first, and then thinking and preparing while sprinting at full speed, can beneficial and informative. I've never been let down by this approach before, so I trust it.

How do you want to change
through DRIVE MYSELF PROJECT?

How do you deal with and take advantage the challenges right in front of you? I hope that this becomes an opportunity for people to take a step forward and experience the joy of taking on challenges. If more people feel this way, I believe the world we live in today will become even more enriching.

The insights, discoveries, and changes you want to make as a result of your participation.

Creating things is a part of my personality and I love it, so I definitely enjoy the process. However, in my typical daily life, I usually approach creating as part of my job. Participating in this project let me reimmerse myself in the joy I felt when creating things as a child. While this project let me discover new things, it also was a great opportunity that let me reconnect with the memories and feelings I had when I first started making things as a child.

Traveling Multi-Disciplinary Creator

TARO

Self introduction

I was born in 1995 in Hamamatsu City, Shizuoka Prefecture. Currently, I don't have a fixed home base, and I travel throughout Japan by car as an “address hopper,” engaging in diverse activities such as photography, playing the violin, and preventive physical therapy. I live my life with the theme of “adding the 'spice of happiness to life,” and I constantly seek excitement as I travel.
I am also currently planning making an original craft beer.

What drives you ?

”Intuitive excitement”
In our everyday lives, we unconsciously make small choices. When I consider that these seemingly inconsequential choices can determine my own life, I believe that if I'm going to choose anyway, it's better to follow the path that resonates with me intuitively. This way, I can lead a life without regrets and be content with my own decisions.
In each fleeting moment of choice, I prioritize my own feelings over gains, losses, or the opinions of others. By doing this, I believe that life can change remarkably.
By engaging in things I love and things that excite me, I find that I can maintain a positive state of mind and naturally be a good influence to those around me.

How do you want to change
through DRIVE MYSELF PROJECT?

I live a lifestyle of traveling freely,
unrestricted by time or place. I believe this lifestyle encompasses more than just daily life—it extends to work, connections, and even my own potential, far beyond what most people can imagine.
I'm currently living the “van life” and am experiencing firsthand the changes and the impact it has had on my life. As I continue on my van life journey, I want to share my experiences with others: what I've learned, how I've evolved, and my aspirations for the future. I want to help everyone feel the joy of living freely and to experience it for themselves.

The insights, discoveries, and changes you want to make as a result of your participation.

Mobility is synonymous with living. To live is to move. It's in our nature, and we can use mobility to experience our five senses. When we experience mobility through these senses, we can find more purpose to life. There's a sense of awe that can only be felt when we travel and this excites us. It stirs our hearts and we can start a new journey. I want to keep sharing the excitement and intuition that drive me with more people and I want them to also discover the joy of mobility. While continuing my journey, I want to authentically convey these moments of awe.

Entrepreneur

Ellen

Self introduction

Born in Tokyo in the year 2000, I founded the femcare brand "I _ for ME" when I was 20 years old. We sell innovative loungewear, the “Welcome Home” shorts, that have built-in underwear. My business has gained recognition as a finalist at Tokyo Startup Gateway 2020 and received 3rd place in Japan for the Global Student Entrepreneur Award. I've also been involved in initiatives related to women's well-being, including advocacy for follow-up HPV vaccine doses. I continue to explore the intersection of women's bodies and technology as a central theme.

What drives you ?

“Being uncompromising”
I believe that the times when I feel most alive are when I'm true to my own convictions and pursue what truly interests me. This passion has the power to attract supporters and like-minded individuals who share the same enthusiasm, leading to a wave that could potentially make a big splash on our lives.

How do you want to change
through DRIVE MYSELF PROJECT?

Personally, I've never been particularly interested in or skilled with things in the theme of mobility. I'm hoping to blend this new theme with the topics I've engaged with so far, in the pursuit of discovering new insights and possibilities.

The insights, discoveries, and changes you want to make as a result of your participation.

Our team tried to create ways to make connections within the context of urban mobility, where people often feel anonymous. We believe that making mobility experiences that feel comfortable isn't just about creating private spaces but also about fostering actual connections while maintaining a degree of anonymity.

Innovator

Toshihiro

Self introduction

I am in my first year of a master's program at Keio University's Graduate School of Media Design. Specializing in information systems, I became captivated by avatar robots'ability to allow people to do things from a distance by controlling them remotely since my senior year of university and have been conducting research in the field since then. I have done internships at companies involved in avatar robot-related projects and taken part in activities like factory tours and have explored how avatar robots can be used at local businesses. Currently, I'm researching avatar-based physical augmentation technology and exploring how we can utilize them further.

What drives you ?

“Interest in a world like in a sci-fi movie”
As a college student, I enjoyed watching science fiction films that were released during that time, like “Hello World,” “The Dragon and the Freckled Princess," and "The Door into Summer.” It was then that I learned about avatar robots, which allow an operator to instantly transfer their consciousness to another location by controlling a robot remotely. Being a fan of science fiction movies, I quickly developed an interest in researching avatars.

How do you want to change
through DRIVE MYSELF PROJECT?

I'd like to gain new perspectives and make new discoveries throughout this project. This will be my first time participating in this kind of challenge, and unlike my usual university assignments, the DRIVE MYSELF PROJECT involves collaborating with people from various disciplines. I hope to create something that can only be achieved by working in a team, something that goes beyond my creative capabilities as an individual.

The insights, discoveries, and changes you want to make as a result of your participation.

I currently research and the promote ways robots can give us "digital mobility." Through this ideathon, I had the opportunity to think about the meaning and joy of human mobility and learn about how other participants think. I realized that each person has their own purpose and story behind their desire to improve mobility. Moving forward, I hope to create tools that help and improve these mobility experiences.

Designer

LIBU

Self introduction

Born in 2001, I've loved making things since I was young. I first began studying craftsmanship, with a focus on machine processing, at Tokyo Metropolitan Kogei High School. Afterwards, I specialized in product design at a design-focused vocational college. I hope to blend the mechanical knowledge I acquired in my high school years with the design knowledge I acquired at vocational school to design both the exterior and interior of things, particularly those focusing on mobility. I had the chance to meet Takamitsu Ikoma, the CEO of ICOMA Inc., during a lecture in my sophomore year and joined the company after graduating. Leveraging my expertise in 3D modeling and 3D printing in combination with my hobbies, I am currently in the process of developing electric bikes as a product designer.

What drives you ?

“Natural elements where creations begin”
Since I was young, I've had a passion for both crafting and vehicles, especially airplanes. As an elementary school student, while poring over airplane guides, biology books, and fish encyclopedias, I started fishing while using a self-made makeshift bait. Despite seeming unrelated at first glance, my beloved fish and airplanes shared a certain similarity: airplanes soaring through the air to navigate and fish propelling themselves through water. This similarity sparked my interest in vehicles and manufactured products that resemble living organisms.

How do you want to change
through DRIVE MYSELF PROJECT?

It's difficult for others to understand the joy I find in vehicles, the act of moving, and driving. However, if the automobile industry were to decline, it would significantly impact Japan's overall craftsmanship. That's why, by utilizing the company I'm employed at's development of lightweight bikes, I hope to spark an interest in light vehicles, and in doing so, share the sentiment of wanting to prevent the decline of Japan's vehicle culture and industrial legacy. This is my personal and my company's aspiration.

The insights, discoveries, and changes you want to make as a result of your participation.

Listening to the ideas presented by other teams, I came across many ideas aren't common in the field of mobility development. I would love for those who participated in the workshop to experience our company's approach to making lightweight motorcycles. The insights and enthusiasm from others during the workshop became more apparent in person, so I would be very interested in collaborating with them in a casual and friendly way.

Engineer

FUTA

Self introduction

I majored in information engineering at a combined high school and college technical school and often participated in extracurricular activities like programming contests. In my fifth year (equivalent to the second year of a bachelor's program), I was assigned to a research laboratory focused on mathematical sciences, where I became involved in researching cellular motion models. Currently, I am pursuing my master's degree and am conducting research while collaborating with peers from diverse backgrounds. Together, we are working on conceptualizing a learning platform for technical college students and preparing to create new societal value using avatar robots.

What drives you ?

"For now" and "explosiveness"
Up until now, I've lived by the motto of “for now, just try it” when creating something. When bringing ideas to life, “for now, I just try it.” Even when I hesitate, I think, “for now, just try it,” and challenge myself. As a result, I recognize the phrase “for now, just try it” as a magical expression that can push myself forward. When I combine my motto “for now, just try it” with trying to bring forth “explosiveness,” it can become a driving force that generates momentum and accelerates my progress.

How do you want to change
through DRIVE MYSELF PROJECT?

In the DRIVE MYSELF PROJECT, there are two changes I hope to make. The first is that, based on experience, people eventually tend to perceive movement and mobility as monotonous when repeating the same motions in the same spaces. In response to this, I want to enhance the experience of mobility by making it more enjoyable. My second objective is to engage in discussions centered around the experience of mobility. with individuals from diverse backgrounds. Through these interactions, I hope to reshape my own ideas and values.

The insights, discoveries, and changes you want to make as a result of your participation.

I'm currently working on a project about avatar robots. During the ideathon, we focused on discussing the emotions and spaces that change as you move. I really think avatar robots can adapt to improve comfort and make a richer experience. Basically, I've come to realize that the future lies not just in the possibilities of mobility, but also in the richness that mobility can bring to people.

Multi-generational Mixed Coordinator

Yuuta

Self introduction

I was born in Kisarazu City, Chiba Prefecture, in 2000. As a child, I was a young caregiver, and became interested in social education due to the interconnectedness and mutual cooperation in local, multi-generational communities. This led me to attend Kokugakuin University.
Feeling a sense of regret towards children in educational settings and understanding elderly often feel anxiety towards passing away, I started activities towards establishing an intermediary organization that fosters interactions between multiple generations and creates connections within the community.
I've also been involved in initiatives like Youth Challenge's “Creativity Division” and “Play Parks,” as well as working with a children's and community cafeteria.
Currently, I serve as a multi-generational mix coordinator, working on creating a relaxed communal space known as the ”Wami no Satoyama”

What drives you ?

“Relaxed multi-generational ties”
As multiple generations feel increasingly isolated and lonely, creating a relaxed communal gathering place and an interconnected support system are the future of the community.

How do you want to change
through DRIVE MYSELF PROJECT?

I want to create a place where everyone, from children to the elderly, can go comfortably and easily, free of age-related mobility restrictions!

The insights, discoveries, and changes you want to make as a result of your participation.

In this ideathon, there were a wide range of ideas presented, from unconventional to practical ones. As someone who actively listens to the voices of people facing challenges at the local level, I felt that these ideas could be applied in fields like education and welfare. I also was able to see the future of mobility experiences.

projectmembers

Risa

Neon Takase

LILI

AOI

AKITO

Inventor Ricky

Yuzu-chan

FUSHI

Matcha Airi

TATSUKI OHNO

HANA

Hanasuetomi

Moeto Yamauchi

RINO

YUTO

Rainbow

SAMPO

SAKAMOTOENTERTAINMENT

ONOKOROaoi kitsuki

Seiya Kaji

TARO

Ellen

Toshihiro

LIBU

FUTA

Yuuta

Risa

Neon Takase

LILI

AOI

AKITO

Inventor Ricky

Yuzu-chan

FUSHI

Matcha Airi

TATSUKI OHNO

HANA

Hanasuetomi

Moeto Yamauchi

RINO

YUTO

Rainbow

SAMPO

SAKAMOTOENTERTAINMENT

ONOKOROaoi kitsuki

Seiya Kaji

TARO

Ellen

Toshihiro

LIBU

FUTA

Yuuta

project
members

TATSUKI
OHNO

SAKAMOTO
ENTERTAINMENT

ONOKORO
aoi kitsuki

TATSUKI
OHNO

SAKAMOTO
ENTERTAINMENT

ONOKORO
aoi kitsuki