Thanks to the generous support of the Matsuro and Tsuruko Nakasone Fund, OIST hosted an inspiring Girls, Be Ambitious! Kids Lecture on June 21 at the OIST Science Studio, located within the Yomitan Library in Okinawa. The program introduced young girls to the exciting possibilities of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) while encouraging them to imagine futures without limits.
The special event, From Okinawa to Space: Girls, Be Ambitious!, featured Dr. Yuko Kakazu, OIST Foundation Trustee and a distinguished astronomer, who generously volunteered her time to share her remarkable journey from growing up in Okinawa to building an internationally respected career in astronomy and space science.
Designed for upper elementary school girls, the lecture invited participants to explore the wonders of the universe while learning firsthand that a career in STEM is within their reach. Dr. Kakazu’s inspiring presentation was paired with engaging, hands-on science activities that sparked curiosity, encouraged discovery, and built confidence.
The response from the community was extraordinary. Although registration was limited to just 50 participants, additional children and their families arrived on the day of the event, with many choosing to stand in the back of the room simply for the opportunity to hear Dr. Kakazu speak.
By all accounts, the program was an overwhelming success. Children and parents alike were captivated by Dr. Kakazu’s personal story, interactive demonstrations, and enthusiasm for science. For many of the young participants, it was their first opportunity to meet a woman from Okinawa who had built a career exploring the universe—an experience that left a lasting impression and showed them what is possible.
The Girls, Be Ambitious! initiative reflects OIST Foundation’s commitment to encouraging more girls and young women to pursue STEM education and careers while inspiring the next generation of scientific leaders in Okinawa. We are deeply grateful to the Matsuro and Tsuruko Nakasone Fund for making programs like this possible and to Dr. Yuko Kakazu for generously sharing her time, expertise, and passion with these future scientists.