Osaka, Japan — Japan Youth Summit 2026 by Youth Break the Boundaries once again became a collaborative space for international youth from May 11–14, 2026.
One of the main sessions in the program was a panel discussion titled “Innovation Beyond Borders: Building the Future through Scientific Collaboration: Bridging Biology, Culture, and Global Research Systems.”
During the session, Naomi Hasian Felicia Butarbutar joined as a speaker and shared her academic journey and leadership experience in Japan.
Getting to Know Naomi Hasian Felicia Butarbutar
Naomi Hasian Felicia Butarbutar is a fourth-year student at Kyoto University majoring in Agricultural and Environmental Engineering.
She is also a recipient of the Kyoto iUP Scholarship Program. Her academic focus includes sustainable agriculture innovation, mechanization, and environmental impact.
Beyond academics, Naomi currently serves as the Chairman of PPI Kyoto. Through this role, she leads various initiatives that connect Indonesian students, diaspora communities, and external partners.
Her organizational experience has strengthened her perspective on the importance of cross-cultural collaboration in building global innovation.
Innovation and Collaboration Beyond Borders
In her presentation, Naomi explained how differences in culture and education systems can become a driving force for innovation.
She compared the natural conditions of Indonesia and Japan. According to her, Indonesia is rich in fertile land and biodiversity. However, Japan has successfully developed a more advanced agricultural system through technology, discipline, and continuous research.
Naomi also shared her experience studying in Japan as an international student. She talked about the challenges of adapting to a third language, a new environment, and a different academic culture.
Despite those challenges, she believes the experience opened opportunities for broader global collaboration.
Also read: Meet the Fully Funded & Partial Funded Awardees of Japan Youth Summit 2026!
The Importance of Understanding Different Perspectives
During the discussion session, Naomi emphasized the importance of communication in international collaboration. She stated that differences in opinion should not become barriers to innovation. Instead, diversity can serve as the foundation for creating new solutions.
She also encouraged delegates to understand other people’s reasons and perspectives before building agreements together. Her message strongly resonated with young people who will face global challenges in the future.
The Role of Student Organizations in Global Collaboration
Through PPI Kyoto, Naomi actively creates spaces for discussions, idea exchanges, and collaborative projects with academic institutions and international communities.
According to her, student organizations play an important role in connecting young people from diverse backgrounds. A supportive environment can encourage the growth of impactful global innovation.
Encouraging Young People to Take the First Step
At the end of the session, Naomi encouraged participants of Japan Youth Summit 2026 not to be afraid of trying new things. She motivated young people to actively seek information, build connections, and start turning their ideas into reality.
Her message reflected the main spirit of the summit as a platform for collaboration, innovation, and cultural exchange among global youth.
Also read: Japan Youth Summit 2026 Autumn Edition — Registration Now Open!
