On Monday, July 14, 2025, Gifu University Organization for Promotion of Glocalization (GU-GLOCAL) hosted the Gifu University Symposium/GU-GLOCAL Symposium 2025 titled "Showcasing the Charm of Japan! The Power of Storytelling × Glocal Perspectives = ?" at the university auditorium. The event welcomed 312 participants from both within and outside the university.
The symposium began with a keynote lecture by Mr. YAMADA Kenji, a film and drama producer, titled "What Is 'The World' in Film?" Drawing from his extensive experience producing internationally acclaimed works, Mr. Yamada shared insights into creating stories that resonate across borders, focusing on the "Four Principles" and "Seven Elements" essential to emotionally impactful content.
Following the lecture, a panel discussion was held featuring Mr. Yamada, Visiting Professor MOGI Kenichiro (neuroscientist and author), and Vice President Lim Lee Wah (Global Outreach, Diversity, Gender Equality, and Library). Under the theme "What Does the Power of Storytelling × Glocal Perspectives Create?," the panel explored ideas on how to "reach the world." They emphasized the importance of deeply exploring one's immediate surroundings - within a five-meter radius - as a way to uncover universal values and empathy that can resonate globally.
Participants shared enthusiastic feedback, such as: "I thought it would be just about movies, but the content was applicable to many fields." "To deepen my own story, I want to face even the negative aspects and pursue what I truly love."
GU-GLOCAL will continue to organize events that foster international perspectives among students, faculty, staff, and the local community. A recording of this symposium will be available soon on Glocal Lesson.
Mr. Yamada's keynote lecture
Panel discussion
Scene from the symposium
Related Link
Glocal Lesson (ご視聴にはGlocal Lessonへの無料会員登録が必要です / Free membership registration is required to view. This content is available only in Japanese.)
