Comment from Yoshiaki Fujimori, Chairman of the EOY Judge
Selecting this year’s EOY Japan representative was a difficult undertaking, as it is every year. Each of these entrepreneurs brings to the table both passion and a unique story. Evaluating their respective achievements is challenging because of the significant societal impact and groundbreaking nature of their business models. While being selected as the EOY Japan representative is a momentous occasion, I hope that each of our nominees from across Japan take pride in making it this far, and in their individual achievements, independently of the final outcome.
The appeal of EOY lies in the limitless opportunities for entrepreneurs to take part. Some past participants were only selected as our Japan representative on their third attempt. I encourage each of our participants to use this experience as a steppingstone to becoming the best version of themselves. If you persist, I am sure that you will rank among the best entrepreneurs in Japan. I firmly believe that your journeys play a significant role in revitalizing this nation. If you aspire to compete on a global stage, to become the world's finest entrepreneur, then I am confident that your steps along this shared path will not only fuel Japan's future, but also establish you as global trailblazers.
Japan's obstacles reflect the challenges facing the world - and labor market mobility is of paramount importance among them. Soichiro Minami has addressed that issue by devising an ingenious business model that enhances the lifetime value of individuals and also reinvigorates society. The EOY udge believes that his approach, unique in its innovative departure from traditional methods, is exemplary at a global scale.
His lifelong cultivation of an entrepreneurial spirit, coupled with his ability to execute and to articulate his journey, have led us to conclude that he embodies the qualities needed as a world-class contender in this year’s EOY.
We hope that he embraces the WEOY, draws on the experience of his fellow competitors, and soars to new heights on the global stage.