The Big Move

At ten years old, I left behind the only home I had ever known—Japan—and moved across the world to Colorado. At that age, I understood the logistics of moving: packing boxes, saying goodbyes, and getting on a plane. What I couldn’t yet understand was the emotional complexity that would unfold in the years that followed. I wasn’t just moving to a new place—I was moving between cultures, expectations, and ways of being that would ultimately shape who I am today.

Growing up in Japan, I was surrounded by a culture rooted in discipline, respect, humility, and collective harmony. I learned early on the importance of listening carefully, thinking deeply, and honoring the people and traditions around me. Japanese culture taught me to be intentional—to pay attention to detail, to act with purpose, and to approach every challenge with quiet resilience. Those values became the foundation of how I carry myself as a leader.

When I moved to the United States, I was introduced to a culture that encourages boldness, individuality, and risk-taking. I had to learn how to speak up, to advocate for myself, and to become comfortable with being seen. The American environment gave me permission to take up space, to explore my own voice, and to step into leadership with confidence. I realized that there’s power in being able to both challenge the status quo and bring people together around a shared vision.

Today, I lead and innovate from the intersection of these two worlds. I blend the Japanese value of thoughtful planning with the American drive to take initiative. I’ve learned to lead with empathy and efficiency, to balance precision with progress, and to build systems that work not just in theory, but in practice. I bring calm in the face of chaos, clarity in moments of ambiguity, and a deep respect for collaboration and diverse perspectives.

This cultural duality is what makes me the leader and innovator I am. I see things through a global lens. I move intentionally, but I’m not afraid to disrupt when something isn’t working. I believe the best solutions come from people who can navigate nuance, connect across differences, and adapt without losing who they are. That’s what the move gave me—not just a new home, but a new way of thinking. And I carry that with me in everything I do.