Expanding Life Choices Through English: Communica Inc. Launches New Course 'Design Your English' in July

Communica Inc. (headquartered in Shibuya, Tokyo; President and CEO Maaya Konishi, hereinafter “Communica”), a company specializing in English education and talent development for business professionals, announces the launch of a new course titled 'Design Your English' (hereinafter 'DYE Course') starting July 2026. This course is designed for 30s and 40s business professionals who aim to challenge themselves in global environments through English.

Background: Overcoming the 'First Barrier' of Speaking Up Despite Having Business English Foundations

In recent years, due to rapidly changing global markets and advancements in AI, reskilling and updating international perspectives among mid-career and leadership professionals (30s and 40s) have become urgent priorities for companies. As highlighted in a policy proposal (※1) by the Japan Business Federation (Keidanren), there is a strong call to shift from traditional knowledge-focused education to one that emphasizes 'dialogue' and 'proactivity,' along with expanding 'recurrent education' opportunities for lifelong learning.

In reality, Japanese business professionals possess significant latent potential. According to the latest TOEIC data (※2), the average score among working adults has reached 644 points, with approximately 40% of test-takers scoring 700 points or higher. This indicates that many 30s and 40s professionals already possess a solid foundation of business English knowledge (input skills).

However, despite having this foundation and motivation to learn, many mid-career professionals hesitate to speak up in English due to psychological pressure—fearing mistakes in real-world settings.

This hesitation does not stem from a lack of ability, but rather from a lack of opportunities to practice outputting in English and environments where failure is accepted as part of the learning process. The combination of the belief that one must speak 'perfectly' and insufficient practical experience creates a high barrier to taking that first step in speaking English in business contexts.

Mid-career professionals have shared the following real concerns:

"Even though I have the knowledge, the embarrassment of speaking English in the moment takes over, and I end up being passive."

"I’ve been so occupied with management duties that I haven’t prioritized developing my ability to express myself."

"Facing promotion or international assignments, I wasn’t clear about what I wanted to achieve through English."

Communica is not just a place for English learning. It is a community where individuals encounter new worlds through English, expand their possibilities, and take the next step forward. The DYE Course is a practical program designed not only to improve English proficiency but also to enhance communication skills, intercultural understanding, and presentation abilities—helping participants design their own careers and lives.

(※1) Japan Business Federation (Keidanren) Policy Proposal: Education Reform Toward 2040 (Published March 18, 2025)

Details: https://www.keidanren.or.jp/policy/2025/014_honbun.pdf

(※2) International Business Communication Association: TOEIC® Program DATA & ANALYSIS 2025 (Published November 7, 2025)

Details: https://www.iibc-global.org/hubfs/library/default/iibc/press/2025/p284/2025DAA.pdf

Three Key Features of the July Launch: 'DYE Course'

A unique program combining the business experience of Kenji Yamamoto, former President of Apple Japan, and the linguistic expertise of Maaya Konishi, CEO of Communica and a polyglot fluent in five languages.

① Practical Curriculum: From Pronunciation to Presentation Systematically learn pronunciation correction, current affairs English, specialized field discussions, and presentations—simultaneously enhancing both English proficiency and communication skills.

② Small-Class Environment to Foster Courage to Speak Develop the ability to express your opinions in English within a psychologically safe environment. Additionally, join a high-quality community of career-driven business professionals who learn and grow together.

③ Growth Design: From In-Person Learning to Ongoing Development After completing the 6-month in-person course, continue your journey with follow-up classes focused on international mindset, leadership, and presentation skills. This ensures long-term growth beyond temporary learning.

Overview of the 'DYE Course'

◉ Schedule: Starting July 1, 2026 (Wed), 7:00–9:00 PM (twice a month, 6 months, 12 sessions total)

More details: https://communica.co.jp/design-your-english-jul/

◉ Curriculum: Systematically learn global business skills through Communica’s original methodology.

◉ Location: Communica Inc. Omotesando Office

◉ Target Audience: Professionals in their 20s–40s aiming for career advancement or global challenges

◉ Capacity: 10 participants (to ensure a small-class, psychologically safe environment)

◉ Fee: Please inquire (corporate contracts and invoicing available)

◉ Application Form: https://communica.co.jp/contact/

Participant Testimonials

Breaking free from 'passive learning'—gaining confidence to speak abroad and unlocking new life possibilities (40s, chef)

"I used to only watch YouTube videos passively, which never lasted. Thanks to direct pronunciation coaching from Maaya-sensei, I gained the confidence to actively speak English even during overseas travel. Each class helped me reflect deeply on myself, and I now feel, 'I want to do everything I’ve ever wanted to do.' This course is perfect for anyone seeking a new version of themselves and new possibilities."

(Post-course change: After graduating, the participant traveled to Hong Kong and Australia to begin local culinary research.)

Overcoming the 'barrier to speaking' despite having knowledge—developing business-ready thinking and communication skills (40s, foreign pharmaceutical company)

"At work, I was limited to reading emails and listening, with no opportunities to express myself. Through this course, I learned to articulate my values and experiences in English. I realized that more important than perfect English is the attitude of wanting to communicate. My business thinking and communication skills improved significantly. I strongly recommend this course to anyone who wants to go beyond language learning and develop the ability to logically organize and express their thoughts."

(Post-course change: After completing the course, the participant transitioned from corporate planning to sales to better leverage their communication strengths.)

Graduating from 'vague English learning'—updating one’s approach to work and life with proactive peers (40s, major financial institution)

"I was continuing English learning without a clear purpose or direction. Through rigorous reading practice, I felt a tangible improvement in grammar and overall proficiency. Discussions with like-minded peers who are proactive about their careers and lives inspired me to think, 'I want to challenge myself more too.' This course is ideal for anyone who wants to transform themselves and build confidence—not just in English, but in life."