We have all drawn courage, hope, and inspiration from sports at some point thanks to the tireless efforts that athletes put forth behind the scenes. Para-swimmers around the world with their sights set on winning are constantly engaged in rigorous training, and two of those para-swimmers are members of the NEC Group who also work alongside other employees on a daily basis. The efforts and growth of these two athletes have also inspired positive change in their colleagues.

There is more than one reason NEC chose to welcome these athletes as employees rather than sign them exclusively as professional athletes.

Early in the morning, the sounds of two para swimmers' focused breathing and their coach's instructions echo across the pool. At the NEC Green Swimming Club Mizonokuchi, operated by NEC Livex, the two swim for nearly three hours, pushing themselves to their limits.

Meet Shunya Murakami and Anku Matsuda.

Both are elite athletes in the Intellectual Impairment class of para swimming and have represented Japan in numerous international competitions. Matsuda even broke the world record in the butterfly stroke. After completing their morning training, they head to work at NEC Friendly Staff, a subsidiary of the NEC Group that mainly employs individuals with disabilities. Guided by its Purpose of "creating the social values of safety, security, fairness and efficiency to promote a more sustainable world where everyone has the chance to reach their full potential," the NEC Group actively supports inclusive employment.

In the workplace, Murakami shifts gears from athlete to team member, performing tasks such as cleaning and landscaping. Meanwhile, Matsuda channels his creative flair into design work for public relations.

According to their coach, Daisuke Kawai, "Working has contributed to their personal growth." Matsuda, once reserved and reluctant to communicate, has gained confidence, while Murakami, who used to feel pressured by expectations, now draws strength from the encouragement of colleagues—a transformation that's reflected in his performance. 

NEC has corporate volleyball and rugby teams, but this is the first time NEC Friendly Staff has employed para-swimming athletes. While some companies opt for professional athlete contracts that allow athletes to belong to the company without engaging in regular duties, these athletes have been hired as employees as well. This decision was driven by more than just providing support—it was backed by a deeper, more significant purpose.

Their unwavering commitment to both athletic pursuits and work serves as an encouraging example for their colleagues

"NEC Friendly Staff employs these athletes not only as a form of support but also because having world-class representatives of Japan as part of our team is invaluable," says Hiroshi Nishimura, President of NEC Friendly Staff. He emphasizes that their unwavering dedication and achievements are a source of inspiration for employees, adding, "It fosters a sense of pride among other employees in working for the NEC Group."

Murakami and Matsuda's progress has had a ripple effect on their colleagues.

Murakami, who initially struggled with cleaning tools and sometimes appeared visibly tired after early-morning training, now stands out among colleagues for his hard work and determination: "His consistent effort positively influences the team, and his presence has grown significantly." Similarly, Matsuda's coworker in public relations noted, "His creative talent is impressive, but what truly inspires us is his commitment to excelling in both swimming and work without compromise. It motivates others to take on new challenges and push themselves harder."

Having colleagues from the workplace competing on the world stage—the significance of this became particularly clear in 2024.

Garnering unified support across the NEC Group as a beacon of inspiration to employees

In June 2024, an internal event to cheer on the NEC Group's world-class athletes drew over 2,500 participants—both on-site and online—despite taking place after work hours. Murakami took the stage, expressing his gratitude: "I'll do my best to meet everyone's expectations," eliciting a thunderous applause from the audience.

Many members from NEC Friendly Staff were also present, joining other employees gathering around Murakami and taking photos with him. The venue was filled with enthusiasm, with participants expressing their excitement, saying, "I want to tell my family about today!"

Matsuda, meanwhile, went on to achieve a remarkable feat at the Japan Adult Swimming Championships held in November by placing 8th in the men's 200-meter butterfly against non-disabled athletes, exemplifying the spirit of inclusion and diversity and inspiring his colleagues.

NEC provides a "world-class support system" (according to Coach Kawai) to help the two athletes continue their training and competitions while fulfilling their professional responsibilities. On the other hand, "the efforts of these world-class athletes undoubtedly inspire our employees" (according to President Nishimura). Indeed, having these two athletes on our team is bringing about positive changes in the company.

Supporting athletes who compete on the world stage and embracing diverse personalities and abilities leads to a transformation into a truly global company. The aspirations that take root in the hearts of each employee become the driving force behind this transformation.

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