Using the field of competitive sport as a reference, Katie emphasized the need for young people to find balance in their lives. “It is tempting for young athletes who achieve early success in their sport to neglect their education.” But, she said, the two are not mutually exclusive.
Katie also stressed how important it is for those in work to continue to pursue hobbies and other interests. “Whatever excites or motivates you, find a way to take it to the next level,” she advised. “Learning should not be limited to the classroom. It’s a lifelong process!” To emphasize the point, she added, “And you don’t just learn from teachers. It could be a coach, a friend, or a family member.”
Katie’s own meticulous preparations for the Olympics Games Tokyo 2020 were disrupted by the sudden postponement following the global COVID pandemic. But she explained how the one-year delay allowed her to re-engage with the world beyond athletics and resume her studies at Stanford University. It also highlighted for her some of the challenges beyond the world of sport, for example the uneven access to healthcare across different countries.
Katie initially feared the COVID pandemic would curtail her STEM Forward program just as it was getting off the ground. “But it forced us to move to a remote engagement model, which actually allowed us to interact with far more students, including some in Japan,” she says, proving that clouds often have a silver lining!
Panasonic hopes to continue to support initiatives like the IOC’s Young Leaders Programme and STEM Forward that provide young people with the opportunity to play a more active and rewarding part in society. These are a natural fit with our brand commitment to empower youth and support their well-being. And Panasonic’s long track record of technological innovation will ensure the talents of the young people who choose to join us will be used to the fullest!