On December 1st, HORIBA celebrated the 100th anniversary of its founder, Dr Masao Horiba. To commemorate his legacy and pay tribute to his contributions to science, HORIBA UK partnered with KidsOut – The Fun and Happiness Charity to support some of the UK’s most disadvantaged and vulnerable children, by donating 100 scientific kits.
Dr Masao Horiba was born on December 1st in Kyoto, Japan. Despite the post-war scarcities, he developed Japan’s first electrode-type pH meter and founded the HORIBA RADIO LABORATORY in 1945, while still studying at the Faculty of Science at Kyoto Imperial University (currently known as Kyoto University). What started in 1953 with the incorporation of HORIBA, Ltd. and just eight employees has grown into a leading company in the field of measurement and analysis with 50 Group companies in 29 countries and a family of nearly 9000 employees worldwide. His unique philosophy of “Joy and Fun” which serves as HORIBA’s corporate motto embodies the belief that finding meaning and purpose at work, allows employees to lead happy and fulfilling lives and create one-of-the-kind innovations. This philosophy remains at the core of HORIBA’s operations.
Throughout his inspiring life, Dr Horiba was recognised for his entrepreneurial achievements and contributions to society. He received the prestigious Blue Ribbon Medal of Honor from the Government of Japan, and in 2006 became the first non-American to win the Pittcon Heritage Award. Serving as a special advisor across various roles, he worked tirelessly to help entrepreneurs build new and innovative businesses. In 2003, he established the “Masao Horiba Awards” to highlight trailblazing work in analytical measurement technologies and support early career researchers and engineers worldwide.
Sara Williams, KidsOut CEO said "We are truly honoured to partner with HORIBA UK to commemorate the incredible legacy of Dr Masao Horiba. Their generous donation of 100 scientific kits has made a real difference in bringing joy and learning opportunities to some of the most disadvantaged and vulnerable children we support.
This thoughtful contribution perfectly aligns with our mission to give children access to experiences that spark creativity and inspire their futures. By encouraging curiosity and learning through science, HORIBA has helped empower young minds, perhaps even inspiring future scientists and innovators.
We extend our heartfelt thanks to HORIBA UK for their support and commitment to making a lasting impact in the lives of children across the UK."
Stuart Knight, President at HORIBA UK said “Supporting our community and contributing to a healthier, more sustainable and better future for all is of great importance to us. Partnering with KidsOut to mark this milestone for our company was the perfect way to honour the legacy of our founder, whose life and work have been an endless source of inspiration for all HORIBARIANS*. Moreover, KidsOut’s mission aligns closely with our STEM strategy to contribute to an all-inclusive education, by supporting young people from all backgrounds, especially those who are underrepresented and/or from deprived environments.
We sincerely hope our donation brought big smiles to the faces of those children on Christmas day and inspired some to pursue future careers in the spirit of Joy and Fun.”
*HORIBARIANS are those who work at HORIBA.
About KidsOut: Fleeing to refuge is only the beginning for children affected by adverse childhood experiences. Without intervention, they face an increased risk of both short- and long-term physical and mental health challenges. KidsOut works to support these children, offering them hope, joy, and opportunities for a brighter future. www.kidsout.org.uk |  |
