Cultivating compassion at the Sompo Care pavilion
Japan’s population is aging faster than ever, and the shortage of care workers has become a serious social issue. At the same time, as family structures change, fewer children are growing up alongside their grandparents, and opportunities for young and old people to spend time together are fading.
I realized there are so many elderly people who need help. It’s a tough job, but I want more people to know how wonderful it is!
Child participant
To help children discover the value and meaning of caregiving, Sompo Holdings and group company Sompo Care opened the “Care Support Center” pavilion at KidZania Tokyo in July 2023. Here, children learn to consider the feelings of elderly people and act with kindness, while experiencing the latest ICT-based care technologies. This gives them a glimpse of what the next era of nursing care will look like. Through the pavilion, we hope to show children that helping others, especially the elderly, is something to be proud of, fostering a society that embodies that spirit.
I used to think caregiving was difficult, but I learned it can actually be fun if you’re creative! My experience completely changed the way I see things.
Child participant
Strengthening the community at Sompo Japan’s Children’s Job Experience Festa
To broaden children’s horizons and spark new dreams for the future, Sompo Japan hosts a nationwide event for elementary school students called “Exciting Futures! Children’s Job Experience Festa.” Planned and run by Sompo Japan in partnership with local governments and boards of education, the event held across the country brings together local businesses and organizations to offer hands-on experiences of what each of them do. The event not only gives children the chance to learn about “real” work, but it also gives participating organizations and employees another reason to be proud of their work.
Meeting children and their parents in person is an invaluable experience. I’d be honored if some of the kids joined our company someday.
Representative of a participating company
The idea for the event first took shape in Okinawa in 2022, starting with employees who wanted to “nurture individuals who can build a brighter future for Okinawa.” This heartfelt wish resonated among colleagues across Japan, inspiring local employees, governments, and businesses alike. From just seven regions last year, the movement has now grown to 20 planned this year as more communities join.
It was a wonderful opportunity for children to learn about different kinds of work. I think it helped expand their dreams for the future.
Parent of a participating child
Creating a future where every child can dream
The Sompo Group is committed to unlocking every child’s potential and building a society where everyone can live with hope and purpose. Through initiatives like these, we give children the chance to experience different professions and understand the many roles that sustain our communities, while learning about issues such as the shortage of caregivers and child poverty. By understanding the importance of these roles – from caregiving to public service – they can grow into individuals who contribute to society with confidence and compassion. Looking ahead, we will continue to support every child’s right to dream and take on challenges in pursuit of these dreams. In this way, we aim to help create a more sustainable future for all.
