Paris Olympic gold medalist Natsumi Tsunoda will speak at Hiroshima Technical High School, the school announced. The event, planned for November 12, 2026, will feature a lecture and judo clinic for students.
The school, located in Nishi-ku, Hiroshima, will host Tsunoda, who won gold in the women’s 48kg judo category at the 2024 Paris Games. The event aims to inspire students through her journey to the top of her sport, according to the announcement.
The event, titled “Preparation Power: The Challenge and Courage to Grab Glory,” is scheduled for November 12, 2026, from 13:50 to 17:00 local time. It will be held at the school’s gymnasium and judo dojo at 5-34-1 Iguchi, Nishi-ku, Hiroshima.
The event is open to all students at Hiroshima Technical High School. The schedule includes a 60-minute lecture from Tsunoda, followed by a 15-minute question-and-answer session. Later, a 70-minute judo clinic, specifically for members of the school’s judo club, will be conducted.
Tsunoda, 31, achieved her Olympic gold medal after overcoming numerous setbacks in her athletic career, the school noted in its announcement. She faced many challenges and decided to change weight classes before reaching the top of her sport.
The school stated that through sharing her experiences, Tsunoda plans to discuss how to face difficulties, the importance of continuous challenge, and the mindset required to realize dreams and goals. Her story is intended to serve as a catalyst for students to think about their own futures and actively pursue their challenges.
Hiroshima Technical High School emphasizes an educational approach that helps each student set their own career and goals and develop the power to continue challenging themselves, the announcement explained. The school hopes that by engaging with Tsunoda’s experience of working her way up to the world’s top, students will consider their own potential and future, leading them to take a new step forward.
Media representatives wishing to cover the event will have the opportunity to interview Tsunoda, as well as school officials and students, on the day of the event. Those interested must apply by 17:00 on November 11, 2026.
Inquiries regarding the event content should be directed to the school’s Admissions and Public Relations Department, led by Suzuki Obara. Media access inquiries should be directed to the Public Relations Department, led by Tomoyo Ishida. Contact information for both departments was provided in the official announcement.
