Honored for driving educational transformation and positive social impact.
By JOSÉ ÁNGEL DE LA PAZ | EGADE BUSINESS SCHOOL
Yuri Hirayama, EGADE PhD in Administrative Sciences candidate and alumna of the EGADE MBA Online program, was recently recognized with two prestigious awards for her leadership and impact on sustainability and education.
Over the past year, Hirayama has been honored globally, underscoring her commitment and impact in transforming education and promoting sustainable practices.
Her most recent recognition came last October when Hirayama was selected as one of the Global 50 Women in Sustainability Awards 2024 winners, organized by The SustainabilityX Magazine.
Now in its third edition, this award celebrates female leaders who drive bold sustainability initiatives, transform industries, and promote a shift toward a more just, inclusive, and sustainable future.
“We are dedicated to supporting the empowerment of youth and women through education and networks,” says Hirayama, School Director and Principal Educator at the Yuri Education Center in Japan, highlighting her vision and mission to achieve a positive impact through her work in education.
In her role, Hirayama has developed programs focused on sustainability and active learning, such as the "Waste to Wow!" workshop and the "You Lead" program, inspiring students to tackle environmental challenges and develop strategic thinking and responsible consumption skills.
At the Yuri Education Center, Hirayama has created an educational community spanning Africa, Asia, Europe, and Latin America, fostering collaboration and youth empowerment aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
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— Education 2.0 Conference (@education2conf) April 12, 2024
Her bold leadership and vision were also recognized earlier this year with the Outstanding Leadership Award at the Education 2.0 Conference 2024 in Dubai.
This award highlighted her exceptional leadership in the education sector and her commitment to transformative education.
“Education and sustainability are intrinsically linked,” says Hirayama.
Beyond her innovative pedagogical approach, Hirayama has become a recognized voice in advancing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) in education, delivering more than 40 talks on sustainability and standing out for her ability to integrate traditional Japanese values with an open and global perspective.
Her approach encompasses English, music, and sustainability classes for all ages—from infants to adults—focusing on inclusivity and active, engaged learning. Guided by the motto of the Yuri Education Center, “We courageously discuss, actively lead, and collectively act,” her programs encourage open dialogue, leadership, and collaboration.
Hirayama's work has become a model for sustainable education, inspiring students and communities worldwide to embrace change and take collective action for a better future. Her dedication to integrating sustainability into education continues to shape a new generation of leaders equipped to address global challenges.