On January 16, 2025, Rui Teruya, representative of web services company GleamHub LLC, planned and led the sixth workshop in an industrial talent development program organized by the Reihoku Future Creation Council. Held at Tomarigi, in the Toshinrei space in Reihoku, Kochi, the workshop was part of a nine-session program in which local residents and students consider the region’s future and develop concrete actions to make it happen.
Experiencing the power of teamwork
The theme was team building. To help local residents and students experience the value of collaboration, we centered the workshop on a tower-building game using paper cups and bamboo skewers.
The game had two rounds. After the first, teams discussed what to improve before trying again. This gave participants a chance to explore roles and communication within their teams. Through rapid trial and error, everyone considered how best to act toward a shared goal.
Workshop program
The day proceeded as follows.
- Opening
We discussed why teams are needed and the importance of sharing a purpose and goals when building a team. - Tower game: round one
Teams used paper cups and bamboo skewers to build the tallest tower they could. Everyone worked together within the time limit. - Reflection and improvement
Each team discussed what had gone well, what could be improved and what to try next. - Tower game: round two
Teams applied what they had learned and aimed for a taller tower. - Wrap-up: what makes a good team?
The group shared views on what teams need to achieve results and why trust matters.
What participants gained
Participants gained many insights in a short time. Feedback included comments that discussing ideas as a team led to new thinking, and that even a short period could produce results with the right approach.
We were also able to communicate our message that sharing a team’s purpose and goals supports successful collaboration. Participants experienced for themselves the importance of building trust and creating an environment where people can exchange ideas freely.
Looking ahead
GleamHub will continue to take an active part in initiatives that consider the future of local communities. We will work to create valuable, moving experiences and expand the possibilities of each region.