Rio Tinto Supports Community at Noto Charity Event

Rio Tinto has lent its support to a charity event organised by the Japan Wheelchair Rugby Federation (JWRF) to uplift communities affected by the earthquake that struck the Noto peninsula of Ishikawa Prefecture in January 2024.

The British-Australian multinational mining and materials company, which operates in 35 countries across six continents, got involved in the initiative as part of its role as the official supporter of the JWRF, which has long been engaging with people in Japan to foster connection through wheelchair rugby and raise awareness of the sport.

The event, held in Kaga City Sports Hall, included demonstration matches by athletes of the JWRF, many of whom are members of the national team who won gold at the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games. Attendees could try their hand at wheelchair rugby through hands-on sessions and enjoy the lively atmosphere, enhanced by the attendance of a local cheerleading squad as well as food and drink trucks selling festival favourites. 

“The event was truly a fun and meaningful experience. It was especially valuable for my eight-year-old son as a social learning opportunity—getting close to people with physical challenges and seeing firsthand how communities support each other during difficult times like earthquakes,” says Gaku En, the company’s Minerals Sales Director. “I feel proud to be able to tell my son that his dad is part of Rio Tinto, a company that actively supports those in need.”

Supporting the JWRF

Rio Tinto Japan has been a proud supporter of the JWRF since 2023 for several reasons, explains Hisako Goda, External Affairs and Communications Senior Manager. 

In addition to wheelchair rugby being a mixed gender sport, which fits with the company’s culture of diversity, the aluminium and titanium used to create the stronger and lighter wheelchairs that can handle the rigors of play are in Rio Tinto’s portfolio. 

Furthermore, the national teams of the countries where Rio Tinto has a significant presence are top performers in the sport. The national team of Australia, where the company has a corporate office and operations dating back 120 years, is one of the most successful wheelchair rugby teams in the world, winning gold at both London 2012 and Rio 2016. And the team of the UK, where Rio Tinto is headquartered, took gold at Tokyo 2020.

Rio Tinto also wants to continue to give back to the community in better ways, through support of the JWRF, which aligns with the company’s purpose of “finding better ways.”

“Some Japanese people may not be frequently exposed to volunteering opportunities, but when given the chance, they are often very willing to contribute and make a positive impact,” explains Goda, adding that Rio Tinto staff are keen to support the JWRF.

“Wheelchair rugby activities let our employees interact with the community; it’s great for both them and the federation,” says Masaki Asanuma, Communications Manager.

In 2024, for example, members from the company’s Japan and South Korea offices gathered  in Karuizawa for an Away Day. As part of the event, JWRF facilitated a wheelchair rugby experience event for the employees. “Most staff experienced the sport for the first time, and it proved to be a great opportunity for them to understand the cause we are supporting,” Asanuma continues. 

Community efforts in company DNA

Rio Tinto’s community engagement also includes support for non-profit organisation Arts for Hope, which aims to encourage the recovery of children affected by the Great East Japan Earthquake and Tsunami through artistic programmes that enhance their peace of mind.  

“We’ve been supporting them for almost 15 years by providing financial support and volunteers. Our team provides hand-drawn Christmas cards to children in hospital every Christmas,” says Goda. “Our mission is to work for the community; it’s in our DNA.”

Through its ongoing partnership with the JWRF and other community-focused initiatives, Rio Tinto continues to demonstrate its commitment to creating positive social impact beyond its core business. By supporting inclusive sports and recovery efforts, the company not only strengthens its ties with local communities but also lives out its purpose of finding better ways to make a difference—together.