Yuri Hirayama

Yuri Hirayama, the School Director, Principal Educator, and Chief Sustainability Officer of the Yuri Education Center, is a visionary leader committed to integrating sustainability, education, and empowerment. She designs programs that address global challenges, such as gender equality, resource management, and cultural heritage preservation. Through these efforts, she fosters awareness and proactive engagement among her students and the broader community.

A key initiative under her leadership is "Yuria’s Happy English" classes for families, merging language learning with environmental and social awareness. Additionally, the "Waste to Wow!" event engages students in responsible consumption and production aligned with the UN’s Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 12. By rethinking waste and promoting innovative solutions, this event encourages sustainable practices and environmental responsibility. She believes that education should not only impart knowledge but also instill a sense of responsibility towards the planet and society.

At the heart of Yuri’s mission is empowering youth and supporting women. The Yuri Education Center serves as a platform for creative thinking, collaboration, and skill development, preparing students for leadership in an interconnected world. By connecting students with global professionals and educators, the center bridges traditional education with the evolving demands of today’s society and business landscape. Yuri’s holistic approach to education ensures that students are equipped with both academic knowledge and practical skills to navigate complex global challenges.

The center’s motto, “We courageously discuss, actively lead, and collectively act,” reflects its emphasis on leadership and problem-solving. Yuri’s approach goes beyond academic learning, emphasizing the importance of applying knowledge to real-world issues. This philosophy equips students with the skills to tackle local and global challenges while promoting sustainable practices and inclusive growth. She actively fosters an environment where students develop confidence in their abilities and learn to take initiative in shaping their communities.

Yuri’s leadership is defined by compassion, flexibility, and vision. She has created an inclusive environment where students and educators thrive, fostering a supportive space that promotes personal and professional growth. Her adaptability allows her to navigate the ever-changing educational landscape, particularly as she integrates sustainability and cultural heritage into the curriculum. Her clear vision has been instrumental in aligning the center’s objectives with its mission to empower youth and women globally.

Through initiatives like the “You Lead” program, Yuri encourages young individuals to embrace leadership roles and develop the skills necessary to drive meaningful change in their communities. She recognizes the isolation that often comes with leadership but views it as an opportunity for self-reflection and creativity. When leaders unite, their diverse perspectives generate transformative ideas that shape a more sustainable future. Her commitment to responsible consumption, global sustainability, and the empowerment of youth and women has gained recognition.

Programs like “Yuria’s Happy English” classes for mothers and children use sustainability-themed picture books to create engaging learning spaces while reducing isolation. Weekend events are also held to encourage family participation, ensuring a holistic approach to education. She believes that by nurturing a community-based learning environment, students and families can build stronger connections and a shared commitment to sustainability.

Yuri believes in balancing innovation with tradition. Since 2025, she has led classes titled "Empowering Youth to Lead while Preserving Cultural Heritage," bringing together young minds from diverse regions. She encourages them to explore how leadership can drive positive change while honoring cultural traditions. By fostering global discussions on leadership, sustainability, and cultural heritage, Yuri inspires students to think critically and act with purpose. Through her work, she continues to shape future leaders who will address global challenges with empathy, resilience, and vision, ensuring a more sustainable and inclusive world.