Noburo Segawa, the main editor of the manga editorial department at Kadokawa, is spearheading the company’s initiative to discover talented individuals worldwide capable of creating manga. The goal is to bridge the gap between Japanese talent and the demand for manga adaptations of original material, such as novels. Rather than focusing solely on Japanese artists, Kadokawa has shifted its approach to search for young talent on a global scale.
Global Contest and Recognition
Kadokawa launched a global contest, attracting over a thousand participants from more than 100 countries who submitted wordless works. Eight winners were selected by the company and showcased on their website. Notably, Segawa highlights a Silver-winning science fiction piece, a genre often avoided by Japanese artists due to its complexity in both narrative and art.
Supporting Young Artists Worldwide
The eight winners will collaborate with Kadokawa, receiving full support to fulfill their dream of launching their manga globally. The company believes that location is not a barrier to starting this creative journey, especially considering the challenges of catering to a declining birth rate and aging population in Japan. Kadokawa has expanded its presence to Asia, North America, and Europe, aiming to assist talented individuals in creating manga that resonates with audiences worldwide and contributes to the global success of the genre.
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