15th Anniversary Homecoming Day 2026
Beyond Tomorrow Homecoming Day 2026
On Saturday, June 13, 2026, Beyond Tomorrow held Beyond Tomorrow Homecoming Day 2026.
Marking the 15th anniversary of Beyond Tomorrow, the event brought together approximately 60 current scholars, alumni, supporters, and friends of the organization. It was a meaningful opportunity for participants to reconnect, celebrate their shared journey, and exchange updates on their lives, studies, and careers.
Homecoming Day serves as a gathering place for current scholars and alumni who have participated in Beyond Tomorrow’s programs and who, despite experiencing various forms of adversity, continue striving to make a positive impact on society. It also brings together the many individuals who have supported them along the way. By reconnecting with peers who are pursuing their own paths and engaging in open dialogue, participants are encouraged to reflect on the future, strengthen existing relationships, build new connections, and gain renewed inspiration for the challenges ahead.
1. Opening Remarks and Messages of Encouragement from Our Distinguished Guests
The event began with an opening video highlighting Beyond Tomorrow’s journey over the past 15 years, followed by welcoming remarks from Daijiro Hashimoto, President of Beyond Tomorrow.
We were also honored to receive words of encouragement from Katsunobu Kato, Member of the House of Representatives, who delivered an inspiring message to the young people who will shape the future.
In addition, Takanori Sazaki, Executive Vice President of BofA Securities Japan Co., Ltd., graciously offered warm remarks of support. We sincerely appreciate BofA Securities Japan for generously providing the venue and supporting this special occasion.
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2. Panel Discussion & Breakout Sessions
The main session of this year’s Homecoming Day featured a panel discussion on the theme “Living in the Age of AI.” Moderated by Ena Kanno, a Beyond Tomorrow alumna, the session brought together distinguished panelists from a variety of fields to explore the societal impact of artificial intelligence and discuss the qualities of leadership that will remain essential as AI continues to transform our world.
1. The Rapid Evolution of AI Technology
Kanno began by outlining the remarkable pace of AI advancement over the past three years. Since the public launch of ChatGPT in November 2022, generative AI has seen unprecedented global adoption, reaching a scale of approximately one billion weekly users within just a few years. She also noted that the latest AI models are achieving extraordinary levels of speed and accuracy in specialized fields such as software programming, in some cases surpassing human capabilities.
She further explained that AI is beginning to contribute to the development and improvement of future AI systems, suggesting that developments once associated with the concept of technological singularity are becoming increasingly tangible in certain domains, particularly software engineering.
2. Looking Ahead: AI Agents and the Next Stage of Intelligence
Kanno went on to describe how AI is entering a new phase with the rise of autonomous AI agents. Rather than simply responding to user prompts, these systems are increasingly capable of determining what actions to take, carrying out complex tasks independently, and solving problems with minimal human intervention.
She also noted that many experts anticipate the emergence of increasingly general-purpose AI systems within the next few years—systems that could perform a wide range of intellectual tasks at a level comparable to, or even beyond, human capabilities. Such developments may fundamentally reshape how knowledge is created and applied across society.
3. AI’s Growing Impact on Society and the Workplace
The presentation also highlighted how AI is already transforming everyday life and professional practice. Examples included AI-assisted drug discovery, personalized one-on-one tutoring, customer support systems capable of handling the workload of hundreds of service representatives, and autonomous taxis. These examples illustrated that AI is no longer a future possibility, but an integral part of many industries.
Kanno also demonstrated how AI is changing the creative process itself by sharing that much of the presentation shown that day had been produced with the assistance of AI in just a matter of minutes. The example underscored how high-quality content can now be generated with unprecedented speed, fundamentally changing the way people create and work.
4. Why Discuss AI at Beyond Tomorrow?
Kanno concluded by posing a fundamental question: as AI continues to evolve, so too will the role of human beings in society. She observed that AI is increasingly becoming a source of advice and emotional support for many people, raising important questions about how individuals build relationships, make decisions, and navigate adversity.
Against this backdrop, she emphasized the significance of exploring these issues within the Beyond Tomorrow community—a community of young people who have overcome adversity and are committed to creating positive change. She encouraged participants to reflect on how they can engage with AI thoughtfully while continuing to develop the resilience, judgment, and leadership that remain uniquely human.
The panel discussion that followed expanded on these themes. Rather than viewing AI simply as a tool for improving efficiency, the panelists reaffirmed the enduring importance of qualities that AI cannot easily replicate, including empathy, passion, ethical judgment, and the ability to inspire others. Together, they explored what knowledge and skills future leaders should cultivate, and what it means to live, lead, and contribute meaningfully in an AI-driven society.
Following the panel discussion, participants divided into small groups for breakout discussions. Guided by the session theme, they openly shared their perspectives, personal experiences, and reflections on the role of AI in society and their own lives. During the plenary session that followed, each group presented key insights from their discussions, resulting in a rich exchange of diverse ideas and thought-provoking perspectives.
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3. Presentations by Corporate Partners and Beyond Tomorrow Alumni
Following a short break, the afternoon session featured presentations from Beyond Tomorrow’s corporate partners, who introduced opportunities designed to support young people in their future academic and professional journeys.
Representatives from Factory Gear, ELSA Japan, and LITALICO shared information about their respective initiatives, offering participants practical opportunities to develop new skills, broaden their perspectives, and take on future challenges.
Presentations by Our Corporate Partners
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Alumni Presentation
The program continued with the Alumni Presentation Session, during which four Beyond Tomorrow alumni—each pursuing their aspirations in a different field—took the stage to share their stories.
- Kateryna Steposhyna introduced her current work as an English teacher and reflected on her journey as an educator.
- Hiroe Kato shared the innovative work of the Minna no Ryugakubu Foundation, highlighting its efforts to expand educational opportunities through international exchange.
- Nanami Toh spoke about her internship experiences and the knowledge and skills she has gained through her work with the Asolab Foundation.
- Shion Nakano introduced his musical activities and concluded his presentation with a powerful live guitar and vocal performance, which was met with warm applause from the audience.
The alumni’s stories of forging their own paths in diverse fields served as a powerful source of inspiration for the current scholars, encouraging them to envision their own future possibilities and aspirations.
4. Networking Reception and Closing
The event concluded with a highlight video reflecting on the day’s activities, followed by closing remarks from Kamisawa, Chair of the Homecoming Day Organizing Committee, bringing the official program to a close.
Participants then gathered for an informal networking reception, where they enjoyed light refreshments and coffee while reconnecting with longtime friends and meeting new members of the Beyond Tomorrow community. Conversations continued well into the afternoon as participants shared updates on their lives, exchanged ideas, and celebrated their renewed connections in a warm and welcoming atmosphere.
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Participant Reflections
“Although I was only able to attend for a short time, I learned so much from the discussions and was truly happy to experience the Beyond Tomorrow community again. Thank you for organizing such a wonderful event. I’ll continue working hard so that I can share good news with everyone the next time we meet.”
“I had a wonderful time. I am deeply grateful to all of the staff members who planned and organized this event.”
This year’s Homecoming Day was made possible by the generous support and dedication of so many individuals and organizations. Thanks to their contributions, the event provided an inspiring opportunity for every participant to reconnect with the Beyond Tomorrow community, reflect on their journey, and find renewed motivation for the future.
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to everyone who continues to support Beyond Tomorrow and its mission.
Homecoming Day 2026 Organizing Committee
- Tomohiro Kamisawa (Beyond Tomorrow Scholar, 2012–2015)
- Mahiro Sawada (Beyond Tomorrow Scholar, 2015–2016)
- Nanaka Yamauchi (Beyond Tomorrow Scholar, 2018–2019)
- Mitsuha Kawanishi (Beyond Tomorrow Scholar, 2022)
Special Thanks
- Ena Kanno (Beyond Tomorrow Scholar, 2013–2014)
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Tax Benefits for Donations (Applicable under Japanese Tax Law)
Donations to our foundation are eligible for certain tax benefits under Japanese tax law.
- For individuals residing in Japan: Donations from individuals are eligible for tax deductions under both the tax credit method and the income deduction method, as well as for deductions under local inhabitant tax and inheritance tax regulations.
- For corporations in Japan: Donations are subject to a special deductible limit.
Please note: These tax benefits apply only to taxpayers in Japan. If you reside outside Japan, tax incentives may not be available unless specifically recognized under the tax system of your country of residence.
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Tax Benefits for Donations (Applicable under Japanese Tax Law)
Donations to our foundation are eligible for certain tax benefits under Japanese tax law.
- For individuals residing in Japan: Donations from individuals are eligible for tax deductions under both the tax credit method and the income deduction method, as well as for deductions under local inhabitant tax and inheritance tax regulations.
- For corporations in Japan: Donations are subject to a special deductible limit.
Please note: These tax benefits apply only to taxpayers in Japan. If you reside outside Japan, tax incentives may not be available unless specifically recognized under the tax system of your country of residence.
Tax Benefits for Donations (Applicable under Japanese Tax Law)
Donations to our foundation are eligible for certain tax benefits under Japanese tax law.
- For individuals residing in Japan: Donations from individuals are eligible for tax deductions under both the tax credit method and the income deduction method, as well as for deductions under local inhabitant tax and inheritance tax regulations.
- For corporations in Japan: Donations are subject to a special deductible limit.
Please note: These tax benefits apply only to taxpayers in Japan. If you reside outside Japan, tax incentives may not be available unless specifically recognized under the tax system of your country of residence.
