Runners of the Olympic Torch: Who Drive Their Own Change? (4) Towa Takada Emphasizes: Embrace Opportunities and Overcome Challenges to Transform Yourself

Young Student Towa Takada Carries Olympic Torch with a Personal Mission

Towa Takada, a student at Toyota Technical Skills Academy, has been chosen as a torchbearer for the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Torch Relay. This honour comes with a deeply personal mission for the 17-year-old, as he aims to use his experience to inspire others and fulfil a promise he made to his late grandfather.

Takada's journey began when he learned that the company was recruiting torchbearers. He was inspired to try his best again, a sentiment that was strengthened by the memory of his grandfather's illness and passing away during his second year of junior high.

His passionately written application was selected as the one for recommendation, marking the start of an eventful life for Takada. However, the news of his selection did not come easy. His maternal grandmother contacted the family to inform them that his grandfather was dying, and it was only after his passing that Takada received the good news.

Takada's grandmother cried when he called to tell her that he had been selected as a torchbearer. His father, too, was not informed about his acceptance into Toyota Technical Skills Academy before his mother was.

The young torchbearer views being a part of the relay as the first step in a series of events. He is currently undergoing on-site training at Toyota's Miyoshi Plant in the Machining Division No. 2, balancing his academic and athletic responsibilities.

Despite the challenges he faced, Takada remains determined. He joined Toyota Technical Skills Academy because he wanted to show gratitude to his parents for their sacrifices and to buy a gift for his grandfather with his first paycheck. Unfortunately, his grandfather passed away before he could fulfil this promise.

Takada carries the torch with the goal of reaching Ryoma Sakamoto, a historical figure who is revered in Japan for his contributions to the country's modernisation. He wants to use his experience as a torchbearer to convey a message to others who might be struggling and encourage them to seize opportunities.

Takada is not very good at studying, but he has confidence in his communication skills. He hopes to use these skills to inspire others and to honour the memory of his late grandfather. His story serves as a reminder that even in the face of adversity, one can find the strength to persevere and make a difference.

Runners of the Olympic Torch: Who Drive Their Own Change? (4) Towa Takada Emphasizes: Embrace Opportunities and Overcome Challenges to Transform Yourself