NEWS

On December 17, 2024, Shoko Fujino (College of Asia Pacific Studies, Class of 2016), the Executive Director of the NPO Aimu, delivered a lecture as part of the APU Social Outreach Seminar series where she shared her journey of addressing social issues in youth support.

During her time at APU, Fujino participated in volunteer work and internships in developing countries where she focused on solving issues such as poverty and the challenges faced by children. After returning to Japan, her experiences abroad led her to focus on social issues within Japan.

Currently, Fujino notes that there is an increasing number of young people in urban areas in Japan, including Fukuoka, who need support. In search of a place where they can belong, many of these young people gather in various locations like parks late at night, forming communities. However, this can sometimes lead to involvement in troublesome situations. Fujino has been working tirelessly to become a supporting ally for these youth—someone they can turn to when they feel disconnected from their family, teachers, or friends.

At the end of the session, Fujino encouraged students with the following message: "There is no need to rush to achieve something, but what matters most is to take action and start moving forward."