Past TEDx event

TEDxKUFS

Took placeJanuary 31, 2026
LocationKyoto, Kyôto, Japan
FormatUniversity
Life can be like a video game - where you embark on adventures to discover something new or complete a quest. Along the way, you may encounter experiences or gain knowledge you never expected. From these moments, ideas are born, and stories emerge that can be inspiring. Where will focus on these 3 topics: Change Entrepreneurship and startups are changing the world and inspiring innovation. Understanding the journey (costs, timelines, and challenges) will help new entrepreneurs grow and develop their own ideas of change. Sharing these stories empowers the next generation to learn, build, and become changemakers. Cultural Cultural preservation and adaptation helps us thrive as a global society. Appreciating both our own and other cultures fosters respect and cross-cultural understanding. Learning from cultural traditions strengthens identity and promotes positive global citizenship. Connections Meaningful connections are essential for success in modern careers and entrepreneurship. Networking builds bridges across ideas, interests, and communities using both tech and personal ties. Understanding and valuing connections empowers people to collaborate and create lasting impact.

Speakers

Speakers may not be confirmed. Check the event website for the latest lineup.

  • Ayane Matsuda

    Youtuber

    Ayane is a YouTuber who is passionate about learning languages. On her channel, she focuses on creating content about learning English, sharing practical insights from her own journey of improvement and growth. In addition to language learning, Ayane also shares her experiences traveling to different countries, offering advice and reflections for those interested in studying abroad or exploring the world. Through her content, she encourages viewers to approach language learning and international experiences with curiosity, confidence, and excitement rather than fear or self-doubt.

  • Larissa Kaori Hino

    Director and Head of Support Business Immi Lab

    Larissa has Brazilian roots and grew up in Shiga Prefecture, Japan. Through her background and lived experiences, she has developed a deep interest in cultural identity and intercultural understanding. She has been particularly inspired by people in Japan who actively support immigrant communities. Larissa believes that respecting other cultures begins with respecting one’s own culture and way of life. When individuals fail to acknowledge their own identity, they may unconsciously deny both themselves and others. Rather than assuming that “everyone is the same,” she emphasizes the importance of accepting that “we are different.” For her, true understanding lies in recognizing that differences in ways of life are inevitable, and genuine respect comes from acknowledging these differences, not erasing them.

  • Manami Hashimoto

    Kyoto University of Foreign Studies student

    In this talk, Manami Hashimoto invites the audience on an inner journey, questioning whether traits like kindness are truly part of who we are or roles we learn to perform in social settings. By unpacking the idea of “authenticity,” the talk explores how recognizing and embracing our true selves can become one of the most meaningful and transformative experiences in life.

  • Yuna Maekawa

    Entrepreneur

    Yuna Maekawa is the founder of kelluna., an apparel brand dedicated to promoting self-love and challenging societal norms around appearance. She founded the brand in Sri Lanka and has been running it for over seven years. Before becoming an entrepreneur, Yuna built her career in international cooperation, working with organizations such as JICA and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan. During her assignment in Sri Lanka, she not only developed a deep connection with the country but also became increasingly aware of a critical social issue that would later shape her work: lookism In her talk, Yuna will share how she transformed her commitment to social change into an entrepreneurial journey. She will reflect on her transition from public service to building a mission-driven business that seeks to “cultivate” a more empowered and inclusive world. Drawing on her experiences in Sri Lanka and Japan.

Organizing team