Niremia Collective, a Silicon Valley-based venture capital firm dedicated to the wellbeing technology sector, is pleased to announce that Dr. Hiroaki Kitano, Professor at Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology University (OIST), joined the firm as Senior Executive Advisor.
This strategic appointment reinforces Niremia Collective’s commitment to advancing human potential through AI, longevity, preventative health, and mental health technologies.
About Dr. Hiroaki Kitano
Dr. Kitano is globally recognized for his pioneering work in artificial intelligence and systems biology. His career spans leadership roles in academia and industry. He received the Nature Award for Creative Mentoring in Science in 2009 and was named a Fellow of the Association for the Advancement of Artificial Intelligence (AAAI) in 2021.
In addition to his academic contributions at OIST since 2011, Dr. Kitano has served as President and CEO of Sony Computer Science Laboratories (Sony CSL) and, since April 2025, as Chief Technology Fellow at Sony Group Corporation.
He is also a key advisor to leading global institutions, including:
- OECD’s Expert Group on AI Futures
- UK's expert advisory panel for the International AI Safety Report
- Japan’s AI Strategy Council
- AI Safety Institute (Japan’s Information-technology Promotion Agency)
Strengthening the Future of Human-Centered Innovation
With Dr. Kitano’s guidance, Niremia Collective will further strengthen its platform for discovering and scaling next-generation startups in wellbeing, longevity, and mental health.
In parallel, Niremia Collective is proud to co-host Human Tech Week, a global conference to be held June 14–19, 2025 in San Francisco, exploring the future of “Humans × AI × Technology.” The event explores the intersection of AI, neuroscience, wellbeing, longevity, creativity, and consciousness - bringing together bold ideas and breakthrough innovations designed to unlock human thriving in the age of exponential technology.
About Niremia Collective
Niremia Collective is a Silicon Valley-based early-stage venture capital and advisory firm focused on Human Tech. Co-founded by Naoko Okumoto and Nichol Bradford, the firm is strategically positioned to invest in the rapidly growing $8.5 trillion Wellbeing & Wellness market projected by 2027. Through deep integration with the world’s largest and most respected wellbeing and human tech ecosystem, Niremia offers proprietary access to exceptional deal flow and expert insights. Learn more at www.niremia.vc.
About Human Tech Week
Human Tech Week is a global summit dedicated to exploring how technology can expand human potential and wellbeing. Co-hosted by Niremia Collective, the event convenes pioneers across AI, neuroscience, longevity, mental health, creativity, and consciousness to reimagine a future where technology is designed to support human thriving. Through a dynamic mix of keynotes, salons, performances, and curated gatherings, Human Tech Week serves as a catalyst for cross-disciplinary collaboration and breakthrough innovation at the intersection of science, spirit, and society. Learn more at www.humantechweek.com.
