image above: panel discussion at the Swissnex Space, Osaka, 2024.
In March, I had the privilege of speaking at two prestigious venues in Japan – the University of Creativity in Tokyo and the Swissnex Space in Osaka. The theme was “Urbanism of Care”. A theme that emerged from a dialogue between Zurich-based architecture and urbanism firm HosyaSchaefer, Finnish think tank Demos Helsinki, the Autonomy Institute in London and the Swiss-based Centre for Design and Health,
At the invitation of the Swiss Embassy in Japan and the Swiss Consulate in Osaka, I joined a distinguished panel of experts to explore a vital question: What are the challenges posed by increasing global longevity and rapid urbanisation? And how can we re-examine our changing world through the lens of care? In doing so, we can identify the ‘unmet needs’ – as defined by renowned design theorist Ezio Manzini – and weave a supportive network to address them.
In Tokyo, I was honoured to share the stage with co-panelists. Professor Yasuko Akutsu captivated the audience with her research. Makiya Nambu, Managing Executive Officer of Pasona Group, made a passionate case for enriched work styles that support caregiving. And leading Japanese architect Chie Konno shared insights from her practice, which is deeply rooted in “care architecture”. Together, we explored new perspectives on urban planning, social services, evolving work models and community resilience.
In Osaka, I had the pleasure of speaking with Mariko Sugita, a Kyoto-based urbanist who shared her grassroots practices with the forcities.org collective. We explored how every citizen and individual can drive transformative change for care in urban environments – or as Mariko beautifully put it, how “Kyoto bacteria can ferment and transform our urban world”.
For more information on the event in Tokyo and a video of the keynote and discussion, please visit vitality.swiss.
