The SDGs Q&A is a special edition of the Super SDGs Symposium, inviting diverse guest speakers to engage in cross-generational dialogue centered on the theme of “Sustainability and the SDGs.” For this 30th installment, we welcome guests Masaki and Masako Kitamura from NPO Kagen, which provides individualized support tailored to each person’s disability characteristics and symptoms; Kenichiro Koyama from Kenichiro Koyama Creative Produce Office; and Sadateru Teramura, proprietor of Kyoto-Zome Teramura, a kimono shop addressing all kinds of “kimono-related troubles” for both kimono shops and individuals. Together, we will discuss Kyoto-based initiatives combining upcycling and welfare, and explore their future potential.
Speaker Profile Details
・Masaki and Masako Kitamura (Chairperson of NPO Kagen / Director of Nishikyogoku Workshop)
In 1990, while working at a Kyoto machinery manufacturer, Masaki developed the rare disease myasthenia gravis. Due to his prolonged leave of absence, his wife Masako Kitamura began working at a shared workshop, engaging in autism support. Through activities with the Kyoto Rare Diseases Association, Masaki also deepened his connections with various disability organizations and developed an interest in welfare. Together, they established the Kaon Nishikyogoku Workshop in 2009, aiming to create a community-rooted workshop. The workshop conducts sewing work, subcontracted assembly of paper boxes and stationery, and produces and sells its own products. Recently, work such as assembling SDGs badges and upcycling projects has significantly increased. Beyond just work, they strive to enable each participant to express their individuality through creative activities and music.
・Kenichiro Koyama (Representative, Kenichiro Koyama Creative Produce Office)
Born August 12, 1986, in Toyonaka City, Osaka Prefecture.
Joined ZARA Japan at age 20. Specialized in data-driven display design, becoming West Japan VMD Area Manager at an exceptionally young age just two years later. Later transitioned from the apparel industry to architecture, working in the field for approximately six years. During this time, self-taught architectural design and became independent. Handles 300 design projects annually as a spatial designer while also serving as a creative producer for dozens of startups and brand strategies. In 2017, his marriage to a woman from Kunigami Village, the northernmost point of Okinawa Prefecture, led him to undertake a revitalization project for a defunct hotel that had operated there for over 40 years. He established ARCHITECTS & BOTANICAL Inc. in Okinawa Prefecture in 2018, opening YANBARU HOSTEL, a new landmark for Kunigami Village, the following year in 2019. In 2020, he established Kenichiro Koyama Creative Produce Office for brand production. Since then, he has served as brand manager for over 30 companies both within and outside Okinawa Prefecture. In December 2021, he opened the company’s New York Office, marking the start of his global challenge. In 2022, changed the company name from ARCHITECTS & BOTANICAL Inc. to LOVE THANK YOU Inc. Expanded the scope of performance into the design and entertainment industries, combining his creativity to revitalize depopulated areas nationwide. Additionally, alongside running a lodging business, he concurrently serves as a brand manager, spatial designer, and fashion designer. This includes spearheading THE FASHION, a venture transforming discarded clothing into high-fashion suits. Moving forward, he plans to globally expand the collective impact of these activities.
・Teramura Teisho (Kiueemon) (Owner, Kyoto-Zome Teramura)
Born in Kyoto City, he worked for a textile manufacturer in Kyoto’s Muromachi district before inheriting the family business of shikkai (traditional kimono restoration). He built a network of over 100 artisans, handling all “kimono-related concerns” for his customers—kimono shops and individuals—primarily through dyeing, maintenance, and repairs.
Current Position: Examination Committee Member and Textbook Committee Chairperson, Kimono Culture Certification, All Japan Kimono Promotion Association (General Incorporated Association)
Career History: Chairman, Kyoto Dyeing and Weaving Youth Association Council
