Mar. 21, 2025

Since its origins in 1911 and its official recognition by the United Nations in 1975, International Women’s Day (IWD), celebrated on March 8th, has served as a global platform to celebrate the achievements of women across social, economic, cultural, and political spheres. It is a day to reflect on women's strides in advancing equality, shaping communities, strengthening organizations, and playing a critical role in peace, security, and development.

IWD is not only a time to honor the remarkable women driving innovation and success but also a call to action—How can we continue to create a more inclusive, equitable future?

“IWD is aligned with the inclusive leadership practices that are a key enabler of our Long-term vision of ‘TDK Transformation’, as well as a critical component of our People Strategy. Additionally, it is also in line with our ESG commitment and supporting the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals, in particular SDG #5 – Gender Equality.”

Noboru Saito, President and CEO, TDK Corporation

#TDKAccelerateAction - TDK’s 2025 IWD Activities

During the week of March 3rd, TDK celebrated IWD with robust communications and in-depth discussions that reinforced our long-range commitment. On a global scale, messages from our CEO and Corporate Officers communicated support and leveraged expectations throughout the organization and beyond, including our CEO’s message being featured on the IWD website. Starting with these, various events were held at TDK sites around the world.

Japan

In Japan, various external speakers were hosted during the week of March 3rd through 7th to discuss a variety of topics, including health, active promotion and career ownership, and facing unconscious bias in the workplace.

“Through these events, we received many encouraging responses, such as, ‘IWD week inspired me to discuss DE&I with many people.’ We hope such events trigger to change how people interact with each other. Please look forward to the next one.”

Kayoko Ando, Department Head, DE&I Promotion Department,
Japan HR Division, Human Resources HQ, TDK Corporation

Europe and the Middle East

The EMEA activities were kicked off with two big events, alongside various initiatives at other sites in the region: In a panel discussion, managers shared insights on gender equality, workplace bias, and steps toward greater inclusivity. In a Keynote Speech, AI expert Anke Haas highlighted how human biases shape AI systems, stressing the need for responsible development to prevent discrimination. The discussions offered valuable perspectives on fostering a fairer workplace.

“I'm thrilled to see our IWD 2025 activities come to life in Europe, and I was moved by the inspiring feedback and engagement we received. Let’s keep the energy flowing to make sure every team member feels appreciated every single day!”

Heike Wetzchewald, Deputy Head of Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion, Human Resources HQ, TDK Corporation

Greater China

On March 7th, diverse events blended cultural workshops with outdoor health activities. Special activities included wellness lectures, traditional crafts, rose bear-making, basket weaving, and succulent DIY. Each site offered unique programs balancing active and creative activities, celebrating women’s vitality in joyful settings.

“This year's International Women's Day has been an extraordinary journey of cultural rediscovery and health empowerment. Thanks to all the organizers who poured passion into these events, and every woman who graces our workplaces with their wisdom. Let's keep working to get more women's voices heard and more women's talents recognized without gender bias.”

William Feng, Deputy Head of Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion, Human Resources HQ, TDK Corporation

ASEAN, India, and South Korea

On March 7th, TDK teams from ASEAN, India, and South Korea t presented an online town hall meeting with female team members and discussed strategies for empowering women in the workplace, addressing challenges related to work-life balance, and fostering an inclusive environment that promotes leadership and growth opportunities for women in TDK. Twelve companies from 17 locations participated. Also, buildings were elegantly adorned with mimosa flowers and IWD illustrations, specially designed by the local team members for this special day.

"TDK's commitment goes beyond merely celebrating IWD; it is a continuous effort to recognize, empower, and support women. The IWD 2025 activities have inspired our female team members to realize their potential and take decisive actions toward their success. We will sustain this momentum and transform it into a lasting movement for empowerment and advancement."

Takamasa Suzuki, Herly Diana, Abhijit Banerjee
Regional Human Resources Heads, ASEAN & India Departments
Human Resources HQ, TDK Corporation

The Americas

On March 5th, TDK partnered with Women in Electronics to deliver a webinar on ‘Evolving Gender Roles & the Impact on Leadership. Keynote speaker and author on leadership Dr. Shawn Andrews, Ed.D., M.B.A. discussed a wide range topics concerning the evolution of gender roles, including female representation in business leadership, gender bias and stereotypes, and gender-based differences in problem-solving and leadership.

On March 12th TDK Americas team members were invited to attend an inspiring leadership panel discussion featuring Americas leadership members Jim Tran, General Manager & Chief Executive Officer of TDK USA Corporation, Julie Fajardo, Director, National Distribution & Sales, TDK-Lambda Americas Inc., Jeanice Freitas, Quality Manager, TDK Electronics do Brasil Ltda, and Nicolas Sauvage, President, TDK Ventures. Panel members offered their perspectives and insights on challenges and opportunities in fostering gender equality, the importance of being aware of biases and stereotypes, and advice to female team members. In addition, they responded to challenging questions from the pool of over 250 participants.

“The Americas’ support of International Women’s Day has grown so much. Last year, there were a number of local activities; this year, in addition to local activities, we partnered with Women in Electronics (WE) to hold a territory-wide event where an expert speaker spoke about the important topic of changing gender roles in society. Moreover, we followed up that event with a panel discussion featuring leaders from the US and Brazil, including Jim Tran, a Corporate Officer. We are very proud to have taken one more step in our inclusive leadership journey and creating a sense of belonging for all our team members”

Jon (Jay) Sebastian, Head of Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion, Human Resources HQ, TDK Corporation

Additionally, entrances of many locations were adorned with mimosa flowers, symbolizing IWD, to create a welcoming atmosphere for all employees. Mimosa flowers are the IWD-chosen symbol that recognizes strength and celebrates women everywhere. Both directly and symbolically, team members throughout TDK were encouraged to promote and reinforce our long-term focus on DE&I and women’s rights.

Lastly, TDK is proud to be an active sponsor of the Women in Electronics organization (WE United), a non-profit focused on advancing gender parity. This sponsorship further enhances that commitment as we bring opportunities within a historically male-dominated industry.

"Attending TDK International Women’s Day has been truly inspiring! It reminds me of the power of embracing who we are as individuals. When we celebrate our uniqueness, we create a world that values and supports authenticity. We will continue to lift each other up and make space for all women to shine. #AcceleratingAction!".

Tomoyo Hiraoka, Deputy Head Global Division
Human Resources HQ, TDK Corporation

Final Thoughts

At TDK, we remain committed to fostering a more inclusive and equitable workplace where everyone has the opportunity to thrive. This International Women’s Day, we celebrate the achievements of women while recognizing the ongoing work needed to create lasting change.

We invite our team members, partners, and stakeholders to be champions of change—advocating for equity, uplifting diverse voices, and driving progress together. By working collectively, we can build a more inclusive future for all.