Location:  Amami City, Kagoshima Prefecture

Mission:

Digital Base MINE exists so that young people (especially those who have fewer opportunities due to geography or their school situation) can, through creating and learning with digital tools, connect with others through what they love and discover confidence and possibilities.
 

Who we are

Digital Base MINE is a creative space for young people located in Amami City, a remote island south of Kagoshima with a population of 40,000. Teenagers can actively engage in digital creative activities such as programming, music, illustration and video.

Mentors are present to support each child’s interests and pace.
 

The facility was founded to support children who struggle with traditional schooling and to offer meaningful “third place” belonging.
 

In its first year, Digital Base MINE welcomed approximately 1,800 total visits, including children who traveled from nearby islands and even outside the region, evidence that this kind of place is deeply needed.
 

It’s a rare “third place” that is digital-first, free for teens, and built around dignity.
 

Our activities

• A free creative “third place” for teens

  • Safe drop-in space for ages 10–18

  • No fixed curriculum, kids choose what to explore

  • Staff/mentors on-site to guide when asked

• Digital making & creative exploration

  • Access to tools like PCs/tablets, creative software, and digital production environments

  • Hands-on creation across multiple mediums (coding, illustration, video, music, 3D creation)

• Access to equipment that’s hard to find on remote islands

  • 3D printers, programming robots, and other devices that expand what kids can try

• Community connection through mentors

  • Adults who can open doors: advice, encouragement, skill support, and future pathways

The challenges we face

• Financial sustainability:

  • ​Current operations rely on time-limited grant funding, with long-term funding still a challenge.

• Rising need:

  • ​Demand for safe “third places” is increasing, especially in regions facing opportunity gaps.

• Resource constraints: 

  • Maintaining equipment, software, and staffing is costly for a free service.

• Geographic equity:

  • On remote islands, access to digital learning and creative tools is uneven—families often have fewer options.