Born in Japan and raised in North America, I deeply understand the struggles and challenges immigrants face when adapting to a new culture and society. At the age of 14, I moved to the United States and Canada, spending over 30 years abroad, where I experienced firsthand the difficulties and loneliness of living as a minority.

Driven by a strong passion for Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI), I authored Voices Unheard, sharing my personal experiences of overcoming biases and systemic barriers in the workplace with many people.

In Canada, I demonstrated leadership as the president and board member of a youth sports organization. Additionally, with four years of experience in fundraising at a Canadian university, I gained extensive knowledge about the structure and operations of nonprofit organizations and fundraising activities. Furthermore, my past experience working as a marketing manager enables me to contribute to the management of this organization in various ways.

Now, having returned to Japan, I established the Intercultural Association of Japan (ICAJ) with the hope of supporting those who face similar challenges as foreign residents in Japan.

Through ICAJ, I promise to help create an environment where foreign residents in Japan are warmly welcomed, receive appropriate support, and can thrive while being true to themselves.