Part 3: Toward a Society Where 'Shining People' Nurture 'Shining People'

Q: How do you feel about the changes in university entrance exams today?
A: As you say, the trend of placing importance on 'why you are studying' and 'what you want to do and what you want to learn at university in the future' has accelerated rapidly over the last few years, especially in the last five to ten years. I feel that this is also largely due to major changes in society.the trend of placing importance on 'why you are studying' and 'what you want to do and what you want to learn at university in the future' has accelerated rapidly is something that has accelerated rapidly over the last few years, especially in the last five to ten years. I feel that this is also largely due to major changes in society.

Q: Amidst these societal changes, what kind of talent do you think companies are looking for beyond academic background?
A: Young people are going to be carrying society forward from here on out, aren't they? When people of my generation become executives or middle managers, and we think about 'what kind of kids we want to join us,' there is a tendency that choosing kids just for their academic background is already scary. As a recent trend, I have many opportunities to hear cases where they quit immediately, or they are incredibly good at studying but just don't fit into the workplace. Because of things like that, I feel that society as a whole is being forced into a situation where it has to demand such things.

Q: Regarding the Starbells philosophy, 'Shining people nurture shining people,' what kind of person is a 'shining person' to you, Mr. Kurosawa?
A: I believe a 'shining person' is someone who has a firm grasp of what they want to do and who they are. They are people who can enjoy themselves even in the face of adversity and are working toward self-actualization. If human happiness is a state where what you want to do, what you are doing, and the results of those things are in alignment, then even in the process, those who are working hard toward that are shining. When I see people working hard at things they don't want to do, I feel very sorry for them.

Q: What kind of influence do you think shining people have on those around them?
A: When I see or am with shining people, I feel energized. They are the kind of people who make you feel, 'I feel energized when I'm with this person,' no matter the situation. I have many such shining people around me of various ages and professions, and thanks to them, I have been able to overcome difficulties and enjoy my life. I want to be like them, too.

Q: Finally, please tell us about the 'Sound Campus' event being held in Higashi-Hiroshima on September 13th.
A: We are holding an event called 'Sound Campus' at a place in Higashi-Hiroshima called 'Yaoyorozu.' Starbells is also participating in the planning, and the goal is for university students and local young people to interact with me, a professional musician. I want to make it an attempt where people of different generations and professions can connect through music and generate new ideas. Everyone is welcome, from students to business owners, and anyone who loves music. I have no idea what will happen, but I would be happy if you could come and enjoy that aspect as well.

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