Career Strategies Seminar Archives - FEW Japan

https://www.linkedin.com/in/yuki-aizawa/

Conference Overview

Program Details

In partnership with:

Raise your Sights

Panel Discussions

Diversifying Tech / STEAM for Equitable Impact

Yan Fan

Co-Founder, Code Chrysalis

Yan is the co-founder of Code Chrysalis, a training company working to help Japanese enterprises transform their workforce. She started, built the technical foundations, grew, and pivoted the company into a multi-million dollar business.

She currently sits on the board of directors. Yan moved to Japan in 2017, from San Francisco where she worked as a software engineer at a machine learning startup, to start Code Chrysalis. Prior to Code Chrysalis, Yan also previously co-founded and served as CTO of a coding boot camp in Jordan helping the region's refugees. She is currently taking a much-needed break before diving into her next thing.

Saori Osu

Public Relations, Marketing, Research and Policy Advocacy, Yamada Shintaro D & I Foundation

Saori, a pioneer in the social sector, is boldly committed to the cause of empowering girls and women. After graduating from Keio University, she propelled her journey at Hitachi, Ltd., navigating IT sales, advertising, and public relations until 2008.

The founder of Global Stage Inc. and the visionary behind the Women Leaders Association of Japan, Saori is not just a leader; she's a catalyst for change. As an external director at Komehyo, Inc., since 2016, she has carved a path for women in management. In 2019, Saori crossed borders to the US, igniting change through a global STEAM inquiry-based educational material, InterEd.

Now at the Yamada Shintaro D&I Foundation, she directs public relations, marketing, and research, fiercely committed to closing the gender gap in STEM fields. A mother of four, Saori's impact resonates globally from Japan and her current base in the US.

LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/nicola-vote-yoroshiku/

Nicola Vote

CEO & Founder, Nicola Vote Consulting

Nicola started her career more than 25 years ago as a CIR (Coordinator for International Relations) on the JET programme, which led to positions in Japanese governmental organizations promoting international cooperation and technical standardization.

Her interest in cybersecurity began during the 4 years she worked as a technical standardization expert at NTT Docomo and progressed during her 18-year career at McAfee, where she held leadership positions in Japan business development and global customer experience (CX) management. Nicola has been involved in FEW for several years, including the Vice President role from 2017-2019. Nicola now runs her own consultancy and is passionate about promoting safer, confident ways to live our digital lives. Nicola holds a BSc (Hons) from the University of London, MBA (McGill University), JLPT N1. She is a graduate of the Oxford Advanced Management & Leadership Programme, Saïd Business School, University of Oxford.

Yuki Aizawa

Women In Tech Regional Director of APAC

Co-Founder & Co-CEO of Rinne, a purpose driven tech start-up providing blockchain solutions ticking the ESG, SDG to make a real impact through innovation and emerging technologies.

My strong believe in Empowering Women in Technology has landed me in a new exciting role as Women in Tech Global movement -as APAC Director.

I am an Official Signatory of Women Empowerment Principles (UNWomen) - a guideline and framework to close the gender inequality gap.

Firm believer that it is never too late at any stage of life to turn things around! There is something everyone can do/contribute at work/life with unique skillsets, find your IKIGAI (Purpose of life). With/through/around technology we can amplify the impact even more and at speed!

Mom of two beautiful grown up kids, daughter is HULT prize, Campus Director 2022 for Australian National University.

Holding Japanese citizenship with mixed parentage, grew up outside of Japan the entire life, aiming to be a global citizen with strong curiosity in cultures with deep empathy which is an important skill as a leadership to a drive a sustainable company.

IG : https://www.instagram.com/yukia108?igsh=ZGtiaTE0MnVvYXN0&utm_source=qr

@yukia108

X (twitter - not really using it but I should!)

https://x.com/yukiaizawawit?s=11&t=JGRyzv1ncz2Ljvc5opAeHw

Moderator

Kristine Ayuzawa

Director, People Operations, Wahl & Case

Kristine has helped globally-minded professionals build meaningful careers for over 15 years. Her experience in the recruitment industry began with interim and executive search and grew to include talent management, leadership development, and sales operations.

She is currently the Director of People Operations at Wahl+Case, where she develops effective hiring, learning, and performance management strategies to further the company's aim of setting a new industry standard. Toward this goal, Kristine strives to align the employee experience with Wahl+Case values and cultivate an environment where consultants succeed by embodying their one rule - “Always do what is in the best interest of your customers. Always.”

Originally from the United States, Kristine holds a BS in Human Development from Cornell University and an MS in Corporate Training & Communication from Purdue University. She is a Certified Executive Life Coach and Associate Certified Coach with the International Coach Federation (ICF). As an HR leader and lifelong learner, she also maintains SHRM-SCP and SPHR credentials through ongoing professional development.

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristineayuzawa/

Moderator

Mahi Patki

Programs Co-Director, FEW Japan

Mahi Patki is a graduate student majoring in Environmental Sciences at the University of Tokyo (UTokyo). Born in India, she has lived in Japan for the past 15 years and is proactively engaged in many student-led projects tackling environmental and social issues.

As the Director of Events and Planning at WomEnpowered International, she spearheaded a series of events to educate about and destigmatize menstruation and women’s health called Period rediscovered. The series explored the science behind menstruation, period products, contraceptives, lifestyle factors, menopause, and period poverty. In continuation, she organized multiple documentary screenings of “A Bloody Taboo” at UTokyo.

Mahi is also a founding member of the UTokyo Green Transformation Student Network (GXSN), which has spurred many student-led environmental sustainability-related projects. In particular, she led the installation of water dispensers across UTokyo campuses as an impetus to change single-use culture, organized Campus Changemakers Summit 2023, and coordinated UTokyo’s first Sustainability week. She recently became a trained facilitator for the Climate Fresk - an interactive educational workshop to understand climate change. Mahi enjoys pottery, embroidery, and growing plants in her free time.

Enhancing Board Diversity for Innovation

Rika Nakazawa

Global VP, NTT

Rika is a technology leader, VC investor, best-selling author, and frequent public speaker on technology-powered industry transformation. She is Global Vice President with NTT’s New Ventures & Innovation team where she is building Agile Co-innovation practices for emerging technologies like 5G, Edge Computing, AI, and IoT.

In her additional role as Head of Sustainability for Americas at NTT, Rika is driving NTT's sustainability ambition in operations while also orchestrating the go-to market for NTT's climate-positive solutions across their portfolio of digital infrastructure solutions. For 2 consecutive years in 2022 and 2023, Rika has been awarded “Power 70” and “Power 80” recognition for the Women of Channel awards with The Channel Co’s CRN network. She has also been ranked as "Top 100 in Emerging Tech" by Women of the Future.

Trilingual in Japanese, German, and English, Rika grew up in Japan and moved to the US to attend Princeton University. Rika has since worked internationally in senior executive roles in strategy, business development, consulting, and marketing with Fortune 500 companies - Accenture, NVIDIA, Capgemini, Sony - and Silicon Valley startups. She is a digital innovation veteran and has served on multiple boards in Next-Gen Computing, XR/VR/AR, Cybersecurity, and AI ecosystems. Rika is currently board chair at STRIDES AI - a social impact venture that is advancing diversity in senior leadership with an AI platform, and a board member of Venus Shell Systems - a circular and blue economy enterprise.

Rika is the best-selling author of “Dear Chairwoman” - featuring the trials and triumphs of women corporate board leaders. Her next book, featuring the intersection of sustainability, digital innovation, and the pandemic, is called “Beyond the Black Swan: How the Pandemic and Digital Innovation Intensified the Sustainability Imperative - Everywhere" was just released by Taylor & Francis in January 2024.

Caroline Codsi

Founder, Women in Governance

With a diverse board portfolio and global advocacy, including TEDx talks and fireside chats with Top CEOs, Chairs of Boards, and public figures like Hillary Clinton, Justin Trudeau, Princess Sarah Zeid of Jordan, Lord Mayor of the City of London, Tarana Burke, Randy Zuckerberg, to name just a few.

Caroline is the recipient of numerous prestigious national and international awards. She was named Top 20 Diversity Leading Figure in Quebec, Top 75 Canadian Immigrant, Top 100 Most Powerful Women in Canada, and Top 100 Entrepreneurs changing the world.

Angela Yuen

Co-President, Women in Law Japan

Angela Yuen, Deputy General Counsel and GM of Legal Operations at JERA Inc., Tokyo, oversees global legal functions, driving digital transformation and innovation.

With over 20 years' experience in-house and in private practice, she specializes in major projects in mining, power, energy, resources, and infrastructure sectors. Angela was listed in the 2023 Legal 500 GC Power List for Japan and was a finalist for Best In-house Lawyer in 2020. She co-presides over Women in Law Japan and Japan In-House Counsel.

Dr. Andrijana Cvetkovikj

CEO and Founder, BrioNexus | Special Advisor for International Cooperation, Ministry of Culture of Japan | Ambassador of Science and Diplomacy, EU's Acrid Network

Andrijana Cvetkovikj is a dynamic leader with a multifaceted career in diplomacy, filmmaking, and business. She was Macedonia's first Ambassador to Japan, and currently serves as an Advisor for International Cooperation to Japan's Minister of Culture.

Andrijana is the CEO and Founder of BrioNexus, a Tokyo-based multinational firm specializing in quantum computing, semiconductors, AI, and blockchain. Her extensive professional experience includes positions such as Director for North Asia at the Economist Group, Executive Advisor to Cartier, Board Director at several publicly listed companies, and Board Member and Chair of the Government Relations Committee of the British Chamber of Commerce.

Dr Cvetkovikj holds an Honorary Doctorate from the European University and has been a speaker at prestigious events like the World Economic Forum and the UN's Climate Change Conference. She is also a Chief Curator for the SDGs in Motion Program at the Tokyo International Film Festival. Dr Cvetkovikj holds a PhD in Cinema Studies from Nihon University and an Executive MBA from TUJ Fox School of Business. Her dedication to promoting diversity, inclusion, and gender equality earned her the WIN Inspiring Women Worldwide Award in 2022. She is also the Ambassador of Science and Diplomacy for the EU's Acrid Network.

Moderator

Tracy Gray

Founder, We are Enough

Ms. Gray is the Founder/Managing Partner of The 22 Fund (The 22), an impact, early-growth venture capital firm with a mission of growing generational wealth/mobility & creating the clean, quality jobs of the future in LMI communities by increasing the global competitiveness of climate tech/sustainable manufacturing companies, intentionally targeting women- and BIPOC-owned businesses.

She was recently appointed President, Commission on the Status of Women by LA Mayor Karen Bass, named a Forbes 50 Over 50 in Finance and cited by Business Insider’s as The 32 most important VCs in Los Angeles, according to other VCs and The 30 rising star VCs in Los Angeles, according to other VCs. She is also a Board Director for Applife Digital Solutions, Inc (ALDS) and the CSUDH Philanthropic Foundation Endowment.

Additionally, Ms. Gray serves on Melinda Gates’ Pivotal Venture’s Women of Color Advisory Council, PGIM Real Estate’s Impact Advisory Council, as an advisor to the Fearless Fund, as a Lead Partner at the Portfolia Green & Sustainability Fund and numerous committees focused on the intersection of finance and climate, gender, race and manufacturing. Ms. Gray is the first Social Impact Fellow at the UC Berkeley’s Center for Equity, Gender and Leadership and was an Executive-in-Residence at the Los Angeles Cleantech Incubator.

In 2015, Ms. Gray gave a TEDx Talk entitled “Why It's Time for Women to Be Sexist with Investment Capital.” Due to the response, Ms. Gray founded the nonprofit We Are Enough (WAE). WAE’s only mission is to educate ALL women on how and why to invest in women- owned, for-profit businesses or with a “gender lens.” WAE was chosen by Variety magazine as a global 50 most "impactful" nonprofits.

Ms. Gray was named a 50 Women of Influence in business in LA, featured in the book “200 Hundred Women: Who Will Change the Way You See the World”, co-wrote “How Foundations Fail Diverse Fund Managers and How to Fix It” for the Stanford Social Innovation Review and co-created Due Diligence 2.0 Commitment. In 2019, Ms. Gray received the Bad Ass Woman in Green award from the California League of Conservation Voters and the Women of Courage award from Youth Mentoring Connection.

Ms. Gray formerly worked as a senior advisor to the LA Mayor, at a venture capital fund and as a systems engineer on the Space Shuttle program. She holds a B.S. in Mathematical Science with an aeronautics emphasis from UCSB and dual MBAs from Columbia University/UC Berkeley.

Moderator

Dr. Jackie F. Steele

President, FEW Japan

Dr. Jackie F. Steele is a trilingual, Canadian political scientist, author, and longtime Japan resident. Jackie has taught at leading universities in Canada (UOttawa, SFU) and Japan (UTohoku, UTokyo, Nagoya Law). As CEO of enjoi Diversity & Innovation, she shares her expertise on how to design and implement diversity-positive ecosystems and corporate cultures.

Using best practices from Canada, Dr. Steele offers evidence-based change management strategies to guide leaders in creating healthy and diversified corporate decision-making and flat, inclusive workplaces that are empowering for diverse talent. For two decades Jackie has also supported grassroots organizations and public/private sector policy leaders in the creation of policy designs for diversity, gender equality, and inclusive innovation. She represented Canadian civil society leadership on women’s equality to the UN Commission on the Status of Women (2008/2009), and served as gender/diversity advisor to the Japan Women’s Network for DRR for revisions to the UN international Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction (2015). Since April 2022, Jackie is Senior DEI Business Partner, Amazon Japan G.K. In her volunteer life, she is a Governor for the Canadian Chamber of Commerce in Japan, serves as an angel Activator with SheEO Canada, and is the Strategic Advisor of WomEnpowered International (UTokyo). She is mother to two adorable children and considers Chikuma (Nagano) her hometown community in Japan.

Building Equity and an Inclusive Society in Japan... and Beyond

Kozue Oka

Executive Director, Mirai no Mori

Kozue Oka is the Executive Director at Mirai no Mori. Born and raised in Japan, she has always believed in the power of nature.

After studying Environment/Outdoor Education in Sweden for a year, she joined Mirai no Mori to share her experiences and to create an environment in which marginalized youth can be steered toward a positive cycle of self-actualization and creativity by discovering new possibilities and develop into confident individuals. Mirai no Mori is a non-profit organization that creates life-changing outdoor programs for abused, neglected, and orphaned youths in Japan, supporting their growth into happy and successful young adults.

Our programs are designed to provide the skills and knowledge that the children need to be able to choose and create their own path for the future. Through new experiences and overcoming many challenges, children discover new possibilities for themselves, leading to self-actualization and a flourishing future.

Mirai no Mori

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MiraiNoMori

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mirainomori/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/Mirai_no_Mori

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/npo-mirai-no-mori/

Personal

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kozue.oka.1

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kozue-oka-3377961b1/

Namino Rivoal

Representative, Mimoza Ways

Graduated from Kyoto Seika University, Faculty of Humanities. Studied “Gender Equality in the Nordic Countries” and ” Peace Research” at the Oslo University’s Summer School, Norway, and French at the Université Sorbonne Nouvelle Paris III, France.

In 2022, produced a play about looking back Japanese women’s history “MIMOZA WAYS 1910-2020 with collaboration Trinidad Garcia and artists from Japan and France. August 2022 co-translated publication “Les crocodiles: temoignages sur harcelement et sexisme ordinaire”. Board member of the Japanese Association of International Women’s Rights, which aims to research and promote the UN Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women. W7 Japan 2023 and Italy 2024 Adviser. Introduced by GEO Magazine 2024 January.

LinkedIn Personal: https://www.linkedin.com/in/namino-rivoal-193a721b/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mimoza_ways/

Maki Muraki

Director, Nijiro Diversity

Maki is a renowned LGBTQ activist. She is a certified social insurance and labor lawyer, and is dedicated to research and social education on LGBTQ issues. She is also an external director of Take and Give Needs and a lecturer at Kwansei Gakuin University.

She is the director of Niijiro Diversity, Established in 2013, non-profit organization Nijiiro Diversity (Osaka City) provides social education on LGBTQ issues and operates a LGBTQ center, Pride Center Osaka since 2022. Launched the Business for Marriage Equality campaign to gather companies that support marriage equality and received the endorsement of over 467 companies

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/makimuraki/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nijidiversity/

Rachel Bookman

Glind Fund Inc Representative & Diversity Advocate

Rachel is a disabled scientist and educator based in the United States who is passionate about increasing diversity in the STEM fields in global contexts to create a more inclusive society for all. Rachel was born with a rare form of muscular dystrophy.

To date, only seven people have been diagnosed with this specific condition (including her late brother Dr. Mark Bookman) so there is little research and no treatment available.

Rachel is focused on the importance of raising awareness of accessibility and is actively working to amplify the voices of individuals in the disability community, through various platforms and social media.

Rachel participated in the Women Leading Together: Solidarity in Storytelling StoryJam through UMass Boston’s Institute for Community Inclusion and StoryCenter and completed the Digital Storytelling Certificate program through StoryCenter.

Rachel works in concert with her father Dr. Paul Bookman, DMD on GLIDE FUND INC., a non-profit organization setup in memory of her brother.

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thewheeldeal0/

Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thewheeldeal0

Natsuko Izena

Advocate, Equity & Disability Inclusion for Women

Natsuko Izena, a remarkable woman, is eager to share her life journey, her professional endeavors, and the joys of raising her children despite what she refers to as "her difficulties". Natsuko, who stands at a mere 100cm tall due to Osteogenesis imperfecta, bravely navigates life from a wheelchair, yet finds solace in traveling and previously pursued studies in the U.S.A. and Denmark.

Supported by a team of ten care workers for ten hours a day, alongside the assistance of friends and young volunteers, Natsuko cherishes moments when her son and daughter, both surpassing her in height, enjoy accompaning her on her wheelchair rides. As a newspaper columnist and instructor for women with disabilities, she tirelessly advocates for a peaceful society founded on principles of liberty and equality, actively engaging with Japan's Social Democratic Party to effect change. Through her writing, Natsuko sheds light on the challenges faced by individuals with disabilities in accessing higher education and securing meaningful employment in Japan, vehemently opposing the notion of segregation and advocating for equal opportunities. Despite facing opposition, including resistance from doctors when she expressed her desire for motherhood, Natsuko remained steadfast in her pursuit of happiness, eventually welcoming two cherished children into her life. She has also endured online harassment, particularly when highlighting the inadequate accessibility and prevalent discrimination faced by women with disabilities in Japan. Natsuko firmly believes in the importance of an intersectional approach to addressing discrimination, emphasizing the collective effort needed to realize a world where all individuals, including women with disabilities, can thrive. With unwavering determination, she strives to empower women with disabilities, envisioning a brighter and more inclusive future for all.

Keri Cromb

Former FEW Japan Board Director and Co-Deputy Representative

Keri Cromb, BComm, is a former FEW Japan public relations board director and founding co-deputy representative. Born with partial hereditary nerve deafness and raised by a single father, she first came to Japan in 1998. After participating in the JET Programme, she now raises her bicultural and bilingual children with her Japanese husband in Tokyo.

As a committed life long learner, she has completed the Dale Carnegie Leadership Training Course and recently the Code Chrysalis Foundation Course. She values her long term membership with FEW Japan allowing visibility and access to a professional and personal network.

Emily Larcombe

Producer, Invisible Languages: Okinawa

Emily is a British-Japanese marketing professional currently working in the education sector. Growing up in the south of England, she read French and Spanish philology at university, before later moving to Paris and Tokyo to complete a dual masters degree in Public Policy.

Passionate about education and the art of storytelling, she directed a film project investigating the generational shifts observed in the use of the indigenous languages across the Ryukyu islands. During her time at the University of Tokyo, she also led the events and planning as co-director of Womenpowered International, an organisation connecting and empowering women within the university and wider community. She is now looking forward to joining FEW Japan as Director of Communications, sharing her experiences to contribute to FEW’s mission of nurturing a supportive and vibrant community of women.

In her spare time, she enjoys trying out new recipes, gardening, reading and practising yoga. Since moving to Japan, her favourite season is now Autumn, and she loves making the most of the sunny blue skied days to go hiking in the mountains or exploring different neighbourhoods in Tokyo.

Moderator

Sellisha Lockyer

Associate Consultant, enjoi Innovation Inc

Sellisha is a Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) Practitioner and Social Justice Advocate. Currently living in Japan, Sellisha is a British DEI Practitioner with a specialism in supporting organisations to be actively anti-racist, improve their gender equity and consider intersections, so that those most marginalised are brought to the centre of focus.

Sellisha brings her understanding of grassroots movements to support the success of her corporate outlook.

Moderator

Hannah Portner

VP Communications, FEW Japan

Hannah Portner was born and bred in London, but after a life-changing school Spanish exchange trip to Andalusia, Hannah made it her mission to pursue seeing and imagining the world from different perspectives. This initial quest took her to the University of St Andrews, Scotland, where she read French and Spanish.

During her studies, she spent a year living and working in the advertising industry in Paris. Since graduating, Hannah has worked in Copenhagen and most recently moved to Tokyo in 2022. Hannah joined FEW after missing a sense of community in Japan and is passionate about providing support and belonging to other women who may feel isolated living in Japan.

Creative Strategies for Real Estate Investing and Regional Revitalization

Blanka Kobayashi

Marketing Director, Kobayashi Group Japan

Blanka Kobayashi is multi-talented entrepreneur. She studied Finance, Marketing and Management in Czech Republic and International Relations at Charles University. She is working as a Marketing Director of Kobayashi Group Japan.

She co-founded HBK Naturalist with her husband in 2006, ARK Reform Japan in 2021 and few other companies, that fall under the Kobayashi Group umbrella. She handles Brand Marketing and Market Research and social media marketing for the company. She also participates in the Blockchain Fintech Projects and new business project Developments.

Currently she spends lots of her time managing ARK Reform Japan, bilingual renovation company based in Tokyo and Chiba, that the Kobayashi family founded in 2021. The company aims to help not already Japanese homeowners, but especially foreign home and business owners in Japan, to successfully navigate through renovating their properties. Blanka is in charge of marketing, sales and customer’s relationships. She is a member of JREP, Japan Real Estate Expert Panel, weekly podcast and YouTube channel, that is gaining popularity Worldwide.

Her strong suit is research, sourcing and execution of crucial task so her knowledge has been invaluable when offering advice to people on how to proceed with their pursuit of financial freedom. Together with her husband, they published The Beginner’s Guide to Financial Freedom to help people manage their finances and plan for better future. Their second book, The Beginner’s Guide to Side Hustles is about to be published next month, followed by The Beginner’s guide for Kidpreneurs.

Blanka is originally from a small town in Moravia, Czech Republic but lives in Tokyo, Japan with her husband and son. She serves as a cultural ambassador, helping foreigners to integrate in Matsudo area and the Japanese citizens to learn more about Czech Republic and to embrace foreigners, living in the prefecture. She is also an Advisory Board member for English Developmental Center at Cape Verde and Board member of L.E.A.D., Japan based educational program to empower young children in leadership and entrepreneurship.

Blanka is passionate about helping others, especially children. Her big dream is for their family to establish foundation, helping children with proper education and living more fulfilled lives. That is why the family participate in many charitable projects in Japan and in Africa.

Naomi Saito

Founder of Serendipity, LLC

Naomi Saito is the Founder of SERENDIPITY, LLC. She started her career working for foreign companies such as Prudential Life and Credit Suisse in Tokyo.

As she became a freelance interpreter, she has traveled all over the world for global conferences, and economic forums, etc. Her illustrative experiences include simultaneous interpretation for the Former Prime Minister Abe and the Former Chief Cabinet Secretary Suga. She has also interpreted for HIBAKUSHA at World Conference against A&H Bombs in Hiroshima and Nagasaki.

About 15 years ago, she started to invest in real estate in Fukuoka, Tokyo and further expanded to overseas such as Cambodia and the Philippines. In the past few years, her focus has been the restoration of AKIYA (abandoned houses) in Japan. She and her husband have restored more than 20 AKIYAs so far.

Naomi is a former Rotary Scholar & Ambassador and holds a M.A in Speech Communication from Pennsylvania State University.

Angela Ortiz Pettas

Owner/Founder of Mi Casa Mobara

Angela is an entrepreneur & author in the space of social impact, fitness & education. She began her career in early childhood education, transitioning into social impact following the Great Earthquake and Fukushima nuclear disaster in 2011.

She established a community building nonprofit, Place To Grow, and published a book by the same title. In 2016 Angela moved into Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) & consulting, leading the local Japan capability for global brands including Adidas and H&M, and working with Tokyo based consulting firm Fabric, focused on circularity and sustainability strategies. In 2023 she focused on expanding her family business portfolio to include vacation rental spaces and led the rebrand and development of ACROSS FITNESS, a CrossFit box focused on physical strength and mobility for longevity. Angela is a curious and creative community business builder, who enjoys working at the intersection of psychology, fitness & education.

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/angela-ortiz-pettas-35689443/

IG: https://www.instagram.com/angelaortizpettas/

FB: https://www.facebook.com/angela.ortiz.58760

Adela Szatvanyi

Strategic Business Consultant

With a diverse background spanning from entrepreneurship to corporate leadership, my journey from owning my business to serving as Vice President at OSF Digital has shaped my experiences and outlook on life. Every day, I strive to grow as a leader, therapist, consultant, entrepreneur and individual.

Over my 12 years at No Surprises Agency and 13 years at OSF Digital, with relocations spanning the US, Canada, France and Japan, I've had the privilege of collaborating with prominent global brands, aiding them in establishing resilient global trade presences. Alongside this professional journey, I've discovered joy in life through activities like snowboarding, hiking, and traveling, all while maintaining a steadfast commitment to continuous self-development.

In addition to my professional pursuits, I've embarked on an exciting journey delving into the realm of home decoration and restoration. This newfound passion encompasses not only reviving furniture but also breathing new life into living spaces, all while championing sustainability. Embracing the principles of Reduce.Reuse.Recycle, I've channeled this ethos into my latest entrepreneurial venture, where I aim to marry creativity with eco-conscious practices.

Moderator

Tracey Northcott

CEO & Founder of Tokyo Family Stays G.K

Australian Tracey Northcott of Enfour, Tokyo Family Stays and Tracey Northcott Consulting, is a serial entrepreneur and multi-preneur based in Tokyo, Japan. She is one of the most successful AirBnB and short term rental hosts in Tokyo.

She also runs Software development company Enfour with her family as well as Tracey Northcott Consulting where she helps other hosts discover the true potential of their STR or AirBnb business maximizing their investment, enjoyment and hospitality standards.

Moderator

Shizuka Suzuki

Memberships Director, FEW Japan

Shizuka Suzuki was born and raised in a traditional Japanese family in a suburb of metropolitan Tokyo. She lived for four years with her family in the U.S. where she received her high school diploma. Her experience in the U.S. broadened her view on life and opportunities.

After graduating from the Aoyama Gakuin University in Japan, Shizuka joined a US-based advertisement firm and started her career in marketing communication. Ever since, she has engaged in various fields, including management planning at both Foreign-based and Japanese companies. Throughout her career, her role has focused on developing happy relationships with clients and customers. Shizuka is excited to work with the empowering members of FEW as Finance Director.

Leading with Purpose: Women Transforming Public Service and Business

Deborah Paul

Minister and Deputy Head of Mission, Embassy of Canada to Japan

Deborah Paul began her current assignment as Minister and Deputy Head of Mission at the Embassy of Canada to Japan in March 2022. She previously served as Canada’s Ambassador to the Socialist Republic of Vietnam from 2018-2022. She has also served as Political Counsellor in Berlin (2013-2016), Tokyo (2009-2012) and Warsaw (2001-2004).

Her first diplomatic assignment abroad was as a Public Affairs Officer in Tokyo. At Global Affairs Canada in Ottawa, she most recently served as Director of the Foreign Policy Planning Division (2016-2018) and as Director of the Southeast Asia and Pacific Division (2006-2009). She has also held assignments in the Non-Proliferation, Arms Control and Disarmament Division; the Economic Relations and Summit Division; and the Government Policy Division. She holds a BA in Political Science and French from Carleton University and an MA in Political Studies from Queen’s University. She first came to Japan on the JET Program and lived in Fukushima Prefecture for two years.

Akiko Domoto

Former Governor of Chiba

Ms. Akiko Domoto is a distinguished leader, currently serving as the President of Disaster and Women Network Japan and representing the Japan Women’s Network for Disaster Risk Reduction. Her illustrious career spans various fields, including politics, media, and environmental advocacy.

With a tenure from 1989 to 2001, Ms. Domoto served as a Member of the House of Councillors, bringing her expertise to legislative matters. Following her political tenure, she assumed the role of Governor of Chiba Prefecture from 2001 to 2009, where she demonstrated a steadfast commitment to public service and governance. She was the first female governor of Chiba and the third in Japanese history,

Before her foray into politics, Ms. Domoto excelled in the media industry as a Producer, Director, and Newscaster at Tokyo Broadcasting System. Her impactful work on "The Baby Hotel" documentary series shed light on unlicensed daycare centers in Japan, earning her numerous accolades and recognition.

Ms. Domoto's influence extends beyond national borders, as evidenced by her roles as Vice President/East Asia Regional Councillor at the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) in 1997 and President of GLOBE Japan from 1993 to 1999, later assuming the presidency of GLOBE International in 1999.

Her dedication and contributions have been acknowledged through various awards, including being named one of UNEP's 25 Women Leaders in Action in 1997 and receiving the Prime Minister’s Commendation for Efforts Toward the Formation of a Gender-equal Society in 2012. Ms. Akiko Domoto stands as a beacon of leadership, advocacy, and empowerment, tirelessly working towards a more resilient and inclusive society.

Vivian Tokai

Director, Government Affairs, Intel

Vivian Tokai is Director, Government Affairs at Intel Corporation based in Tokyo. She is responsible for developing and implementing a comprehensive government relations strategy for Intel Japan to ensure a supportive semiconductor policy and regulatory environment for intel's growth and operations.

Vivian is a government affairs and public policy professional with 25 years of experience covering a wide variety of sectors, including energy, environment, aviation, transportation, defense, IT and digital economy. She has extensive senior leadership experience with a wide range of blue-chip multinational businesses in Japan. Prior to joining Intel, she led Japan government relations activities at UPS, GE, Facebook, eBay and Honeywell. She served as Chief Diversity Officer at Citigroup in Japan and was selected as Women’s Leadership member at GE. Vivian has been active in a number of business organizations. She is a member of the Keizai Doyukai, Japan Association of Corporate Executives, and has held various board roles with the American Chamber of Commerce in Japan and the British Chamber of Commerce in Japan. She has also been a visiting professor and lecturer at a number of Japanese universities including Chuo University and Showa Women’s University. Vivian also possesses extensive experience in the media. She anchored a sports news segment of a daily evening news program at NHK, the Japan Broadcasting Corporation. She earned a Master of Science degree in Broadcast Journalism from School of Journalism, College of Communication, Boston University. She was a finalist of the Miss International/Miss World Japan Beauty Pageant and can speak Japanese and English, and introductory Chinese, Korean and French.

Amina Sugimoto

CEO, Fermata

Born in Asia, raised in Africa, and educated in Europe: Amina comes from a very diverse and multicultural background, and her mission is to bring about a paradigm shift in healthcare by promoting better access to healthtech across the globe.

She obtained a Doctor of Public Health Degree in Health Economics at the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine and later moved back to Japan to assist the World Dementia Council in association with the Health and Global Policy Institute.

In 2017, she then joined a social impact-focused VC, Mistletoe Fund, based in Tokyo/Singapore, as their Healthcare Innovation Producer. Her specialisation is in health policy, Pharmaceutical Affairs laws, and healthtech startup support.

In 2019, she launched fermata, Inc., which now has become a leading FemTech ecosystem in Japan and Asia.

Moderator

Dr. Andrijana Cvetkovikj

Former Ambassador of Macedonia | CEO and Founder, BrioNexus | Special Advisor for International Cooperation, Ministry of Culture of Japan | Ambassador of Science and Diplomacy, EU's Acrid Network

Moderator

Léa Perceval

Co-President, FEW Japan

Léa Perceval was born and grew up in Haiti before moving to Canada, where she graduated from the University of Montreal with a bachelor’s degree in political communication (2015). She is currently completing an MBA with a focus on Project Management from the University of Laval (2022) while working at the Haitian Embassy in Japan as a Councilor.

Prior to coming to Japan, she worked in Haiti as a Political Attaché at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and in Montreal, she worked in the fields of communication, marketing, and sales for various institutions. These experiences allowed her to develop skills and knowledge that she enjoys sharing with others, mainly by volunteering. Léa is a proud mom of two, whose life journey is about empowering others, especially those who are vulnerable. She believes that helping others is a way of helping oneself, whether the purpose is to grow as an individual, learn new skills, or help create value and sustainable growth within a community.

Women's Entrepreneurship and Starting a Business in Japan

Hana Nakanishi

Startup Program Coordinator, JETRO

Hana Nakanishi graduated from Akita International University, renowned for its global curriculum and emphasis on international education. Upon completing her studies, she joined the Japan External Trade Organization (JETRO) in 2021, a government-related organization that works to promote mutual trade and investment between Japan and the rest of the world.

At JETRO's Tokyo headquarters, Hana played a pivotal role in the digital marketing division. She was responsible for creating and implementing strategic digital marketing campaigns to support Japanese companies in their endeavors to expand into overseas markets. Her efforts significantly contributed to enhancing the global presence and competitiveness of these companies. After demonstrating her expertise and dedication in Tokyo, Hana was transferred to JETRO's Osaka headquarters. There, she shifted her focus towards supporting startups, providing them with essential resources, guidance, and connections to help them thrive in both domestic and international markets. Her work in Osaka involves working closely with innovative entrepreneurs, helping them navigate the challenges of starting and growing a business, and fostering a vibrant startup ecosystem in the region.

Patricia Bader-Johnston

Founder, Silverbirch Associates

Patricia Bader-Johnston is Representative Director and Japan Country Head for Freyr Life Sciences KK. She is on the Boards of Earthberries Capital Ltd. and Silverbirch Associates KK both involved in renewable energy development and sustainability-related technologies.

Patricia held a number of senior corporate roles in Fortune 100’s spanning 35 years based in Japan with regional and global roles, including:

Member of the Board and Director of Communications for IBM Japan

Vice-President Operations Finance and Resources for Goldman Sachs Japan

Director of Corporate and Regulatory Affairs at British American Tobacco Japan

Director of Corporate (and regulatory) Affairs for Standard Chartered Bank (Japan, Australia, Taiwan)

Before entering the private sector she served as a senior program officer in Public Affairs for the Canadian Embassy in Tokyo, and prior to that in Yokohama City government supporting International Relations and an International Expo. Patricia has served as an advisor to many diverse organizations including: Tokyo Business Development Center (JETRO) and EGG Japan, Asia Development Bank/ADBI/World Bank; UVLrx Blood Labs, Johnson&Johnson Medical Devices, Becton Dickenson, Astra Zeneca, Evolucent Medical Devices, Roche Diagnostics, Government of Quebec, NASA OMEGA Project, Impact International (UK), TBWA\Hakuhodo, Mitsubishi Estate Ltd., Ernst & Young, United Nations University, Syntaq Global Inc., Invest Northern Ireland, the US State Department, among others.

She is a Professor of Globalization and Business Studies (MBA) at the Kenichi Ohmae Graduate School, and Associate Professor (Sustainability Studies) at Rikkyo University (Master of International Business), Faculty Advisor to the London Business School, Visiting Professor at Stanford University (MBA) and Doshisha (MBA), former Professor of Tohoku University (MBA).

Patricia has served as President of the Canadian Chamber of Commerce in Japan; was twice Leader of the Year for the American Chamber of Commerce in Japan, and is an active TED Associate, TEDx curator (TEDxTokyo, TEDxGreatWall, TEDxAoyamawomen, TEDxMarunouchiwomen, TEDxJanpath(New Dehli), and a global Ambassador for UnitedSucces. Patricia holds an MBA in International Business from McGill University Canada and is the mother of four grown children.

Yumiko Horie

Founder, Posse Nippon K.K

A solopreneur and the Founder of Posse Nippon K.K, Yumiko is a former journalist who switched careers in her mid-30s after working at international institutions such as the UN.

Posse Nippon assists English-speaking businesspeople with technical support and guidance to navigate Japanese government grant applications. We also provide entrepreneurs and scientists with professional writing/editing services.

Elvira Yunitan

Product Manager, Rakuten Advertising Technology Department.

A solopreneur and the Founder of Posse Nippon K.K, Yumiko is a former journalist who switched careers in her mid-30s after working at international institutions such as the UN.

Moderator

Chinyere Okoli

JMECAA Co-Chair

Chinyere is the Co-Chair of the JMEC Alumni Association and has been an active member of FEW for the past 3 years.

Having a strong belief that everyone has the right to live life on their own terms, she started The Sista Fund - an organization dedicated to helping women learn how to manage their money wisely and to, ultimately, achieve financial freedom. She is excited to be a co-moderator at the FEWture conference and is looking forward to meeting and connecting with wonderful, talented womxn.

Moderator

Christine Brown

Vice President, FEW Japan

Christine grew up in the Midwest of the United States then moved to New York to study Journalism. Over the course of 16 years, she worked for multiple start-ups in human resources, event and retail management, and real estate.

A love of animals inspired her to become an entrepreneur and found Wags to Whiskers, a pet care service in Brooklyn. Following her dream to live in another country, she moved to Nagasaki in 2007 and taught English on the JET Program for five years. After relocating to Tokyo in 2014, she continued to teach Business English and Cross-Cultural Communication skills to professionals. Three years ago, after studying and training with her mentor for eight years, she founded an Intuitive Life Coaching business, Clarity with Christine. Her hobbies include traveling, practicing yoga, reading books, and trying new foods. She is excited to serve on the FEW Board of Directors and looks forward to sharing her personal and professional experiences with the FEW members.

Raise the Bar

Hands-on Skills-Building / Holistic Well-being Workshops

Lower Your Expectations To Raise Your Game

Helen Iwata

Sasuga! Communications

Helen Iwata is an award-winning bilingual coach supporting high-potential and high-achieving managers and executives to perform at their best in global business, leveraging the power of the Sasuga! Success Cycle. Originally from England, Helen has lived and worked in Japan for over 30 years.

During her ten years with McKinsey & Company in Tokyo, she served as Manager of Client Communications and trained consultants and clients in leadership and communication skills, including presentations and meeting facilitation.

In May 2013, Helen established Sasuga Communications K.K and is now the go-to women’s success, leadership, and communication expert for multiple multinationals to design and lead their high-level training and coaching programs and is known as the Less Effort, More Impact Coach.

Helen served as faculty for the Tokyo University Executive Management Program and won the 2017 Waseda University Teaching Award for her Strategic Thinking and Communication MBA course. She has been a popular speaker at women-related events, including TEDx Roppongi, Nikkei's Woman Expo, Google's Womenwill, and FEW (For Empowering Women) Tokyo.

She is also a Nikkei Woman Smart and Nikkei doors columnist, author of the Japanese book Eigo no Shigoto-jutsu, published by Shogakukan, and host of the Sasuga! Podcast.

YouTube - @HelenIwata

Instagram - @heleniwata

Facebook – Sasuga Communications

Relationships by Design

Sarah Furuya

Sarah Furuya Creative

Sarah Furuya is an executive and life coach, host of the Legends Podcast, and Tokyo’s most popular clothes swap. She holds a BSc in Human Biology and Human Psychology, is trained Systems Coach, a certified Psychometrics assessor and uses Science, Psychology and Story in all areas of her business.

She sat on the FEW Board from 2010-2013 being President 2011-2013. She currently sits on the Board of Directors of Refugee Empowerment International and teaches Coaching Programmes at Temple University Japan. She has been nominated for 3 British Business Awards. In her most recent Legends Podcasts, she is incredibly frank about burnout, breakdown and a hysterectomy, hoping to share ALL her knowledge and experience about how she advocated for herself during perimenopause. She loves the sky, nature, the sea and is a hill witch in the wilds of Zushi from where she runs her creative business.

@sarahfuruyacreative on instagram https://www.instagram.com/sarahfuruyacreative

@sarahfuruyacreative on FB https://www.facebook.com/sarahfuruyacreative

LInkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarah-everitt-furuya-3727a74/

Practical Yoga Play

Kristen McQuillin

Creative and Founder of Media Tinker

Kristen is a "professional dilettante" whose interests weave into a tapestry of creative and corporate jobs. Threading throughout is her passion for making difficult things easier, including yoga.

After moving from Tokyo to rural Chiba in 2015, Kristen created "Satoyama Yoga" and for the past four years, she has taught a daily morning session via Zoom, racking up more than 1000 days in a row without a miss. Beyond yoga, Kristen is a designer whose work you may recognize from the refreshed FEW logo or business graphics and presentations of members. Ask for her card and you’ll get full insight into her colorful career.

www.mediatinker.com

@mediatinker

https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristen-mcquillin-b51115/

General Admission Tickets Available Now!

Categories:

Full Day (Conference + Gala)

Daytime Conference Only

Gala Only

General Admission Tickets

Other Upcoming Events

Finding Your Voice When AI is Doing the Talking: An Evening with Helen Iwata

ROGUE: Transforming Resentment into Renewal

The post The FEWture Conference Meet Our Speakers appeared first on FEW Japan.

The FEWture Gala

Aidan — Tue, 16 Apr 2024 16:16:25 +0000

The FEWture Gala

Celebrating Gender Solidarity & LGBTQ Inclusion

Join us in raising the roof

June 7, 2024 | 7:00 pm | Tokyo

Join us at the FEWture Gala: Celebrating Gender Diversity and LGBTQ Solidarity!

Friday, 7 June, 2024
7pm - late
Four Seasons Hotel Tokyo at Otemachi

We invite you to join us at the FEWture Gala, an evening dedicated to celebrating gender diversity and solidarity. This event, held as part of FEW Japan’s bi-annual conference, promises an unforgettable experience filled with inspiration, networking, and empowerment.

At the Gala, you can look forward to a vibrant atmosphere buzzing with energy and excitement. Connect with like-minded individuals who are passionate about driving positive change in gender equality and diversity. Network with professionals from a variety of industries and backgrounds, creating valuable connections that can propel your personal and professional growth.

The evening will feature speakers from the four non-profit organisations the event is fundraising for to learn how your funds will help their missions to create a more inclusive society in Japan and beyond. In addition to this, the Gala will also offer delicious food and an open bar all night, providing the perfect setting for relaxed conversations and networking.

The Gala promises to leave you inspired and motivated to make a difference in your own sphere of influence. So join us at the FEWture Conference Gala and be a part of a movement that is shaping a more inclusive and diverse future for all.

Young Professionals Tickets

The FEWture Conference and Gala Schedules have been announced:

Raise your purpose

The FEWture Conference Gala is pleased to be raising funds for the following organizations:

Meet our Gala Ambassadors

Léa Perceval

FEWture Gala Co-Chair

Dr. Jackie F. Steele

FEWture Gala Co-Chair

Terrence Holden

FEWture Gala Co-Chair
Former Producer, Tokyo Speaks

Kani Munidasa

CEO & Co-Founder, Code Chrysalis

Yan Fan

Co-Founder, Code Chrysalis

Robert Millar

CEO & Founder, Innovacious

Justin Dart

JMEC Alumni Association Co-Chair & JMEC Co-Vice Chair

Chinyere Okoli

JMEC Alumni Association Co-Chair

Donovan Gordon

Founder, Luxury Events and Service Specialists

Tracey Northcott

Founder & CEO, Tokyo Family Stays

Angela Yuen

Co-President, Women in Law Japan

Ann Jenkins

Tokyo International Players

Gala guests will enjoy a beautiful menu curated by Chef Kensuke Kuze

Chef Kensuke Kuze, who honed his skills under prestigious restaurants such as Le Jules Verne, a Michelin restaurant located inside the Eiffel Tower in Paris and also under Michelin 3-star chef Alain Ducasse.

Along with the entertainment of the evening:

Meet our Entertainment and DJs Raising the Roof

Comedy Break

Meet our DJs Powering up our Dance

RACONTEUR ANN JENKINS

DJ VLAD

DJ JENNIFER

DJ SENA

Ann Jenkins

Ann, originally from Warwickshire - Shakespeare Country, has acting in her blood. As a child, she would eagerly attempt to join the animals at farms and zoos or performers at circuses and theatres. Following her mother’s footsteps, Ann made her stage debut at four. Her career with the British Council took her across Europe and the Middle East, eventually bringing her to Japan.

In Italy, she co-founded a roadshow performing works by Shakespeare, William Blake, and D.H. Lawrence. Ann is deeply involved with Tokyo International Players (TIP), Japan’s oldest English-language theatre group, appearing in their May 2024 production of Beauty and the Beast. She was a founding member of Loose Sock Theatre Company in Yokohama and Black Stripe Theater.

Ann served on TIP’s Board of Governors for many years and remains an advisor. Since 1997, she has also been active with Women Educating, Learning & Leading (WELL), coordinating and emceeing their talent show, WELL-played. After retiring from her university position, Ann continues to work as an actor, narrator, model, and teacher. She is honored to participate in these events, hoping to bring a smile to the audience’s lips.

DJ JENNIFER (Yuko Tomioka)

Based in Tokyo, DJ Jennifer began her music career as a local DJ in 2016, and mixes a blend of Pop, R&B, Hip Hop, Rock and most of all, is an expert on 80’s music. Currently she is a resident DJ at the Embassy of Canada to Japan where some events she shared her signature sound include:

2019: Canadian craft beer promotional event, Year-end reception

2021: Christmas party @Official Residence

2022: Canada Day BBQ @Official Residence

2022: Year-end reception @Official Residence

2023: Team Canada Trade Mission welcome reception with Minister Ng

Hear from the organizations we’re fundraising for

Dr. Jackie F. Steele

FEW Japan

Léa Perceval

FEW Japan

Maki Muraki

Nijiro Diversity

Kozue Oka

Mirai no Mori

Namino Rivoal

Mimoza Ways

Rachel Bookman

Glide Fund, Inc.

Join us in raising the roof!

Other Upcoming Events

Finding Your Voice When AI is Doing the Talking: An Evening with Helen Iwata

ROGUE: Transforming Resentment into Renewal

The post The FEWture Gala appeared first on FEW Japan.

The FEWture Conference Program Details

Developer — Tue, 20 Feb 2024 18:23:46 +0000

Friday, June 7, 2024

The FEWture Conference

Program Details

To help you get the most out of your day at our 2024 conference, we have organized our sessions under 4 overarching themes:

Raise your Purpose

Fundraising for the future of inclusion

Raise your Sights

Invigorating panel discussions

Raise the Bar

Inspiring workshops

Raise the Roof

Evening Gala with dinner & dance

Friday, June 7, 2024 8:30am - 5:30pm | Gala, 7:00pm

Four Seasons Hotel Tokyo at Otemachi

Conference Overview

Gala Overview

In partnership with:

The FEWture Conference and Gala Schedules have been announced:

Raise your Purpose

The FEWture Conference is raising mission-critical funds to support our community of diverse women in Japan as well as show solidarity with the following like-minded organizations fostering equity and inclusion: 

Keynote Speakers

Akiko Domoto

Watch the highlight reel of Domoto-sensei's amazing keynote speech at the 2024 FEWture Conference!

Akiko Domoto is Representative of the Japan Women’s Network for Disaster Risk Reduction. She is a former Member of the House of Councillors (1989-2001) and a Former Governor of Chiba Prefecture (2001-2009). Prior to entering politics, she was a Producer/Director/Newscaster, Tokyo Broadcasting System and received various awards for “The Baby Hotel,” a documentary series about unlicensed day care centers in Japan. She was Vice President/East Asia Regional Councillor, IUCN in 1997, and President of GLOBE Japan (1993-1999) and of GLOBE International in 1999.

She is the recipient of various awards, including UNEP's 25 Women Leaders in Action in 1997, and the Prime Minister’s Commendation for Efforts toward the Formation of a Gender-equal Society in 2012.

Watch the highlight reel of Domoto-sensei's amazing keynote speech at the 2024 FEWture Conference!

Tracy Gray

Ms. Gray is the Founder of We Are Enough, whose mission is to educate ALL women on how and why to invest with a gender lens. WAE was recognized by Variety magazine as a global 50 most impactful nonprofit. Ms. Gray is also Founder and Managing Partner of The 22 Fund, an early-growth venture capital firm with a mission of growing generational wealth/mobility through clean, quality jobs of the future, intentionally targeting women- and BIPOC-owned businesses.

She was recently appointed President by Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass of the Commission for the Status of Women, was named a Forbes 50 Over 50 in Finance and cited by Business Insider’s as The 32 most important VCs in Los Angeles. Ms. Gray serves on Melinda Gates’ Pivotal Venture’s Women of Color Advisory Council, PGIM Real Estate’s Impact Advisory Council, and as a Lead Partner at the Portfolia Green & Sustainability Fund. Ms. Gray is the President of City of Los Angeles Commission on the Status of Women.

Ms. Gray holds a B.S. in Mathematical Science with an aeronautics emphasis from UC Santa Barbara and dual MBAs from Columbia University and UC Berkeley.

Featured International Speakers

Rika Nakazawa

Rika is a technology leader, VC investor, and bestselling author, recognized for her expertise in technology-driven industry transformation. As Global VP at NTT’s New Ventures & Innovation, she focuses on Agile Co-innovation practices for emerging tech like 5G, Edge Computing, AI, and IoT. Additionally, she serves as Head of Sustainability for the Americas at NTT, spearheading sustainability initiatives and overseeing the go-to-market for NTT’s climate-positive solutions.

Rika, a trilingual executive with a background in Fortune 500 companies and startups, has earned accolades like “Power 70” and “Power 80" at the Women of Channel awards and “Top 100 in Emerging Tech” by Women of the Future. She’s the board chair at STRIDES AI and a board member at Venus Shell Systems. Rika is also the bestselling author of “Dear Chairwoman” and recently released “Beyond the Black Swan: How the Pandemic and Digital Innovation Intensified the Sustainability Imperative - Everywhere” in January 2024.

Caroline Codsi

Caroline Codsi is a trailblazer for gender equality in corporate sectors. She founded Women in Governance in 2010, the organization that launched the first North American Parity Certification in 2017 that has reshaped workplaces and is endorsed by global giants like Accenture, FedEx, Pfizer, Rolls Royce, and many other industry leaders. With a diverse board portfolio and global advocacy, including TEDx talks and fireside chats with Top CEOs, Chairs of Boards, and public figures like Hillary Clinton, Justin Trudeau, Princess Sarah Zeid of Jordan, Lord Mayor of the City of London, Tarana Burke, Randy Zuckerberg, to name just a few.

Raise your Sights

Panel Discussions

Diversifying Tech / STEAM for Equitable Impact

In partnership with

Bringing together speakers with industry, practitioner, and academic backgrounds in STEAM and tech, this panel will touch upon topics such as women’s contributions to tech leadership, software development, the role of human intelligence versus AI, cybersecurity and education for girls and teens in STEAM fields. This panel will raise our understanding of the pressing issues of our times and how to foster girls’ and women’s literacy and leadership in frontier industries key to a more equitable and sustainable future.

Yan Fan

Co-Founder, Code Chrysalis

Saori Osu

Public Relations, Marketing, Research and Policy Advocacy, Yamada Shintaro D & I Foundation

Nicola Vote

CEO & Founder, Nicola Vote Consulting

Yuki Aizawa

Women In Tech Regional Director of APAC

Moderator

Kristine Ayuzawa

Director, People Operations, Wahl & Case

Moderator

Mahi Patki

Programs Co-Director, FEW Japan

Click on a speaker/moderator's name to learn more about them.

Enhancing Board Diversity for Innovation

In partnership with

Drawing on the multifaceted experiences and insights gained from (paid or unpaid) roles on boards of governance (corporate, nonprofit, professional association), we will dive into the nitty gritty of why diversifying decision-making at all levels yields more sustainable innovation, why a 360 degree view on problems and solutions is so key to good governance, and how diverse boards can leverage inclusive decision-making structures and best practices to ensure positive impact for people, prosperity, and planet.

Rika Nakazawa

Global VP, NTT

Caroline Codsi

Founder, Women in Governance

Angela Yuen

Co-President, Women in Law Japan

Dr. Andrijana Cvetkovikj

CEO, BrioNexus

Tracy Gray

Founder, We are Enough

Moderator

Dr. Jackie F. Steele

President, FEW Japan

Click on a speaker/moderator's name to learn more about them.

Building an Equitable and Inclusive Society in Japan... and Beyond

In this panel we feature the women leaders and representatives of the organizations we have chosen to support and for whom we are honored to raise funds through The FEWture Conference. These women will share insights on their pivotal efforts and work i) empowering LGBTQ and queer women in Japan, ii) supporting youth in institutionalized care with leadership development, iii) raising literacy on women's HERstory in Japan through theater, and iv) providing scholarships for studies abroad to people with disabilities. Focusing on the deep intersectionality of different forms of exclusion, we will learn about how we can all work collaboratively to create a more equal playing field for diverse womxn of all different backgrounds, seeking happiness and equal access to opportunities in Japan and beyond.

Kozue Oka

Executive Director, Mirai no Mori

Namino Rivoal

Representative, Mimoza Ways

Maki Muraki

Director, Nijiro Diversity

Rachel Bookman

Glind Fund Inc Representative & Diversity Advocate

Sellisha Lockyer

Associate Consultant, enjoi Innovation Inc

Moderator

Hannah Portner

VP Communications, FEW Japan

Natsuko Izena

Advocate, Equity & Disability Inclusion for Women

Keri Cromb

Former FEW Japan Board Director and Co-Deputy Representative

Emily Larcombe

Producer, Invisible Languages: Okinawa

Click on a speaker/moderator's name to learn more about them.

Creative Strategies for Real Estate Investing & Economic Revitalization

In partnership with

Discover new avenues for creative financial wellness tailored for women in Japan. Delve into strategic investment tactics shared by industry experts, exploring how entrepreneurship, real estate, and financial prosperity intersect. Embrace the power of creative thinking to navigate real estate markets effectively, unlocking sustainable pathways to financial success through innovative approaches at the intersection of entrepreneurship and investment.

Blanka Kobayashi

Marketing Director, Kobayashi Group Japan

Naomi Saito

Founder of Serendipity, LLC

Angela Ortiz Pettas

Adela Szatvanyi

Moderator

Tracey Northcott

CEO & Founder of Tokyo Family Stays G.K

Moderator

Shizuka Suzuki

Memberships Director, FEW Japan

Click on a speaker/moderator's name to learn more about them.

Leading with Purpose: Women Transforming Public Service and Business

Having a deep sense of purpose both professionally and personally is the driving force that motivates many women; it helps them lead with the long game in mind, and with an aim to contributing and improving the state of their professions, industries, communities, countries - even international relations - for good. When women lead with purpose, they carve out more space for diverse folks to find a home in those spaces as well. Be inspired by this group of dynamic women who are making unique contributions by leading with purpose.

Deborah Paul

Minister and Deputy Head of Mission, Embassy of Canada to Japan

Akiko Domoto

Former Governor of Chiba

Vivian Tokai

Director, Government Affairs, Intel

Amina Sugimoto

CEO, Fermata

Moderator

Dr. Jackie . Steele

President, FEW Japan

Moderator

Léa Perceval

Co-President, FEW Japan

Click on a speaker/moderator's name to learn more about them.

Women's Entrepreneurship and Starting a Business in Japan

In partnership with

Are you an entrepreneur or thinking of becoming one? Join our insightful business panel for an immersive journey into entrepreneurship. Learn startup essentials, digital marketing strategies, and master networking techniques from our diverse panel whose experiences range from startups to serial entrepreneurs. In this session, you'll discover the secrets to finding your ideal clients and unlock the mindset of a serial entrepreneur.

Hana Nakanishi

Startup Program Coordinator, JETRO

Patricia Bader-Johnston

Founder, Silverbirch Associates

Yumiko Horie

Founder, Posse Nippon K.K

Elvira Yunitan

Product Manager, Rakuten Advertising Technology Department.

Moderator

Chinyere Okoli

JMECAA Co-Chair

Moderator

Christine Brown

Vice President, FEW Japan

Click on a speaker/moderator's name to learn more about them.

Raise the Bar

Hands-on Skills-Building / Holistic Well-being Workshops

Lower Your Expectations To Raise Your Game

Helen Iwata

Sasuga! Communications

Aiming for average is not typical advice you’d receive if you want to accomplish everything you do. But it turns out if you shift your mindset, work less, and become kinder to yourself, you can achieve surprisingly more than you imagined with greater ease.

This intimate, reflective, and active workshop will teach you how lowering your expectations can help you raise your game. By the end of the workshop, you can expect to i) take home new perspectives and possibilities for less effort and more impact thanks to the wisdom in the room, ii) understand practical ways you can lower your expectations to raise your game, iii) feel reassured that you can actually put what you learned into practice because you have a better understanding of what really works for you.

Relationships by Design

Sarah Furuya

Sarah Furuya Creative

What if you could tap into the innate creativity, intelligence and personality of your relationships to guide you toward “right relationship”? We are constantly in ever-emerging relationships with everything around us. There are signals coming in all the time, from sometimes unexpected places, in our family, work, teams, companies, marriages, friendships, groups and networks. We can listen to and communicate with these signals to discover more information if we just know how to access them.

In this interactive Workshop, Sarah Furuya of SF Creative & Coaching will take you through a series of activities to explore: i) 3 types of relationship intelligence and how to play with them in your daily life, ii) 3 levels of reality and “quantam flirts”, and moving in and out of them skillfully, iii) getting creative with the tiniest steps towards getting into right relationship.

Practical Yoga Play

Kristen McQuillin

Creative and Founder of Media Tinker

Take a break from the conference and enjoy Practical Yoga Play, a light-hearted yoga lesson incorporating movement, breath work, and mindfulness meditation with useful takeaways for womxn in business. No previous yoga experience is required and all levels of yoga practitioners are welcome. This session is suitable for all bodies, all outfits, and all everything - this is highly inclusive yoga. Come as you are.

Your MCs for the Day:

Sarajean Rossitto

Lauren Power

Your Dedicated Hosts for The FEWture Conference: the FEW Japan Board of Directors

Dr. Jackie F. Steele

President

Léa Perceval

Co-President

Christine Brown

VP Memberships

Hannah Portner

VP Communications

Yuki Namba

Finance Director

Tracey Northcott

Corporate Membership Director

Shizuka Suzuki

Memberships Director

Blessing Thomas

Memberships Co-Director

Teodora Diana Vandor

Programs Director

Mahi Patki

Programs Co-Director

Emily Larcombe

Communications Director

Georgia Emmett

Communications Co-Director

General Admission Tickets Available Now!

Categories:

Full Day (Conference + Gala)

Daytime Conference Only

Gala Only

Other Upcoming Events

Finding Your Voice When AI is Doing the Talking: An Evening with Helen Iwata

ROGUE: Transforming Resentment into Renewal

The post The FEWture Conference Program Details appeared first on FEW Japan.

The FEWture Conference

FEW Communications — Thu, 08 Feb 2024 10:01:20 +0000

The FEWture Conference

22nd Biannual Career Strategies Seminar

Friday, June 7, 2024 8:30am - 5:30pm | Gala, 7:00pm

Four Seasons Hotel Tokyo at Otemachi

New Speakers Announced!

Program Details

Now live: The FEWture Gala

Gala Overview

Build your FEWture

FEW Japan’s flagship Biannual Career Strategies Seminar is back after a long pandemic hiatus! And we’re excited to announce its new name: The FEWture Conference.

Held every two years, The FEWture Conference is FEW Japan’s biannual full-day event that brings together English-speaking women in Japan of all backgrounds to meet inspiring speakers, immerse themselves in pioneering talks, and join skills-building masterclasses. Participants leave the event equipped with broad industry knowledge, along with the necessary tools, connections, and friendships to enhance their lives and careers in Japan. In the evening, we will host a gala dinner and dance the night away!

The FEWture Conference will raise mission-critical funds to support our non-profit’s mission and national outreach on women’s empowerment in Japan. In addition, The FEWture Conference will be raising funds for the following like-minded non-profits who share our values of building an inclusive society in Japan:

NPO Nijiro Diversity, driving LGBTQ Inclusion
NPO Mirai no Mori, empowering marginalised youth
Mimoza Ways, Sharing Japanese Women’s History
GLIDE Fund, empowering Global Leaders in International Disability Education

Get ready to

Raise the bar!

Raise your sights!

And at the end of the day, raise the roof with a fantastic night of celebrations!

We hope you’ll join us - this year’s conference is set to be our best one yet!

Friday, June 7, 2024 8:30am - 5:30pm | Gala, 7:00pm

Four Seasons Hotel Tokyo at Otemachi

New Speakers Announced!

Program Details

Now live: The FEWture Gala

Gala Overview

The FEWture Conference and Gala Schedules have been announced:

Address: 1-chōme-2-1 Ōtemachi, Chiyoda City, Tokyo 100-0004

"Just seeing the amazing collection of talented women who have made a life here in Japan, sharing their knowledge so openly with those who are eager to find better opportunities in their journey. My first CSS was in 2016 and I will never forget the amazing and inspiration speeches that continue to guide me even to this day in 2024. It really does help you open your sights to bigger and more daring levels. Not thinking as small as I used to. I am absolutely looking forward to having a more engaging role in this year's CSS."

Tia Haygood

Owner & Principal Photographer, TOPTIA Photography

"I've attended several CSS events in my 2 decades (!) in Japan and at each event I've had brilliant experiences. Early in my career, I made connections, was inspired about what was possible as a foreign woman in Japan. I met multiple people who would become my coaches, my friends and important parts of my community here. It can be easy to feel isolated as people come and go so making new connections is really valuable to maintain mental equilibrium. When I stepped away from my corporate role in Marketing and set up my own coaching and training business, FEW CSS was the first public speaking event I participated in. It was wonderful to overcome my nerves with the warm and supportive audience. Each event is unique and the speakers all bring something new to the table. If you need a little inspiration or community building or just to be reminded of your own potential, then I strongly recommend joining the CSS this year."

Jennifer Shinkai

Ikigai and Inclusion, Facilitator and Coach

"At my first CSS event, I came across with wonderful speakers and learned a lot in a day. Also, getting connected to like-minded ladies became my asset."

Kyoko Nagano

CEO, Mypal Inc.; Director, Sake Lovers Inc.

“FEW CSS and membership provided me with concrete skills, network, clients, advice, leadership opportunity, collaborations, partnering and mentors, not to mention lasting friendships. The women of FEW uplifted me, believed me, gave me confidence, listened, counselled me, and provided a sense of belonging.And then there’s the magic. There’s something about being in a room full of women. Who all know why they’re there. Who are focussed on the elevation of themselves and others. Who are there to create more and more for everyone in the room.”

Sarah Furuya

Founder, Sarah Furuya Coaching/Sarah Furuya Creative

Hosted in partnership with the Four Seasons Hotel Tokyo at Otemachi

The 2024 FEWture Conference is hosted in partnership with the Four Seasons Hotel Tokyo at Otemachi, FEW Japan’s newest Ruby Corporate Sustaining Member.

Located in Otemachi, Tokyo's business district, Four Seasons Hotel Tokyo at Otemachi is a symbol of Japanese culture and faces the Imperial Palace, geographically located in the heart of Tokyo. Adjacent to Otemachi Station and within walking distance of Tokyo Station.

Venue

Four Seasons Hotel Tokyo at Otemachi

Contact: 03-6810-0600

Gala guests will enjoy a beautiful menu curated by Chef Kensuke Kuze

Chef Kensuke Kuze, who honed his skills under prestigious restaurants such as Le Jules Verne, a Michelin restaurant located inside the Eiffel Tower in Paris and also under Michelin 3-star chef Alain Ducasse.

The Program Details Have Now Been Released!

Read About Speakers and Panels

We are delighted to celebrate our corporate members

Ruby Strategic Sustaining Members

Corporate Sustaining Members

Organizational Members

BECOME A MEMBER AND SAVE!

While you’re here… why not become a member of FEW Japan?

Join FEW Japan to access membership prices and participate in the incredible events we organise throughout the year for our collective of globally-minded, English-speaking women of all nationalities.

Other Upcoming Events

Finding Your Voice When AI is Doing the Talking: An Evening with Helen Iwata

ROGUE: Transforming Resentment into Renewal

Let’s Talk Health: Mind, Body, Strength – A Women’s Health Workshop

The post The FEWture Conference appeared first on FEW Japan.

TESSA SANDERSON CBE

FEW Communications — Sun, 27 Sep 2020 07:34:57 +0000

On the 6th August 1984 at the Summer Olympics in Los Angeles Tessa Sanderson won the Gold in the Women’s Javelin and became the first black woman to win a Gold for Great Britain. She remains today the only British person, man or woman to ever win a throwing Gold Medal, a record that has been maintained for over 35 years.

Tessa competed in SIX Olympic Games from 1976 to 1996, and in addition to the Olympic Gold, won three Commonwealth Golds and a World Cup Gold in Cuba in 1990.

During her 26 years competing for Great Britain Tessa was voted Sports Personality of the Year and Athlete of the Year (3 times) by the Athletics Writers Association, she also presented the Sports News for 2/3 years for Sky Television. Her media career involved television presenting for BBC, ITV, Bloomberg, GMTV, Talk Sport Radio.

Tessa has taken part in various BBC Show’s and is a natural in front of the camera both as a guest and a host. One particular show recorded the highest viewing of the whole series on one evening with over 2.9 million viewers – it was repeated 9 nine times during the year.

Tessa was a Board member of the Olympic Park Legacy Company and continues to be very involved with that area today. Her charity support is extensive, her latest work includes being Patron of Adoption UK having adopted two young twins herself. More recently she became Patron for the Birmingham Commonwealth Association and is an Ambassador for Move it or Lose it, a campaign aiming at improving the fitness of older people, particularly during the pandemic of 2020.

She continues to be a regular within media, whether it be ‘A Question of Sport’ (2016), BBC Radio news review (2017) Loose Women (2019) Sky News (2019) or entertainment ‘Celebrity 5 go Barging’ Channel 5 (2018), Junk Food Experiment (2019), Sink or Swim (2019). She is often featured in magazines, broadsheets and the popular press (Hello Magazine covered her 60th birthday , Daily Telegraph featured ‘mother at 57, model at 60’, Telegraph supplement covered her 35th Anniversary since winning Gold ). Very much a TV/Radio personality outside of her sporting achievements she regularly gives keynote speeches as well as hosting award functions. More recently she was signed by a modelling agency and is developing work in fashion and beauty balancing this with her young family and sporting interests. She presented at a designers launch in 2019, making her debut appearance on the catwalk.

Tessa is also a corporate business ambassador helping to build brand awareness. She has several large roles with an announcement of an exciting new project shortly.

Social Media tags for Tessa:

Tessa Sanderson CBE Official Twitter @tessasanderson

Tessa Sanderson CBE Official Instagram @tessasandersoncbe

The post TESSA SANDERSON CBE appeared first on FEW Japan.

TERRI MACMILLAN

FEW Communications — Sun, 27 Sep 2020 07:34:26 +0000

Terri was born in New York City’s Harlem in 1958, grew up in Queens and Manhattan, attended the High School of Music & Art as a voice and piano major. She went to Fordham University for 2 years as an English major. Her first real job was Manager, then Director of Business Affairs for CBS Records International for 10 years. She moved to General Manager of Paisley Park Music for 2 years.

Having fallen in love with the Shibuya-kei scene in Tokyo, she left the corporate world to run a non-profit, Medius Entertainment, whose mandate was to promote cultural exchange by bringing excellent Japanese underground bands to the US.

After almost 15 years of artist management (Pizzicato Five, Buffalo Daughter, FEED), Terri and her business partner decided the music business was moving in too mercenary a direction, and they moved into bi-cultural multimedia production and brand management. By this time, Terri was living in Tokyo, and working to find a way to build a life in the city.

Building a Creative Practice

Terri’s focus now is the concept learn:::create:::publish. As a lover of courses and books and learning, she has consumed a lot, created sporadically, and published little.

In her early 60s, she decided that had to change.

She is creating a podcast and newsletter called ‘hello human’, documenting her creative projects. hello human is especially meant for middle-aged+ women who would love to build a creative practice and perhaps even turn it into a business someday.

Terri is fortunate to have a full time job she enjoys, but it’s worth the time it takes to focus on the projects that build – and serve – this community.

The post TERRI MACMILLAN appeared first on FEW Japan.

PETRA LAPTISTE

FEW Communications — Wed, 23 Sep 2020 05:13:59 +0000

Petra Laptiste was born and raised in Montreal which is one of the world’s largest French-speaking cities. She was born to a Trinidadian father and a Grenadian mother who had left the Caribbean to seek more diverse educational prospects in Canada. Her mother and father instilled in her the principles of dedication, integrity, cultural awareness and hard work – with lots of love and laughter sprinkled in between.

After graduating from Concordia University with a Specialization in Cell & Molecular Biology, she worked at one of Canada’s largest financial institutions, then moved to Japan for a career change in education. While she had been living in Japan, Petra honed her teaching skills by receiving a Cambridge University CELTA certificate. Spending almost a decade in Japan had planted a deep wanderlust inside her soul. Petra’s years of travel to almost 35 countries on 5 continents have enabled her to experience a wide variety of foods, cultures and enriching philosophies. For instance, on her first African journey, Petra went to Ghana on holiday. Unfortunate news unfolded and tragedy hit her family. In retrospect, she had used that experience and the positive sisterhood energies from FEW Japan to embark upon her first entrepreneurial streak in Tokyo.

She has brought cultural sensitivity and diversity to all facets of her work. From Corporate Training to Trinidadian cooking instruction in Tokyo – it has always been Petra’s mission to broaden the horizons of those around her and allow them to understand that the Caribbean and African Diaspora have a deep richness and history. The gorgeous textiles and symbols of Ghana and Tanzania, the soulful rhythm of Trinidadian tunes, the earthy deep beats of Grenadian music, Afro-Caribbean fashion, diverse and flavorful cuisine and the beauty of English language communication are what Petra Laptiste wants people to savour, experience and return for more.

After leaving Japan, Petra decided to take a break from entrepreneurship. She relocated to and currently lives in the Arabian Gulf region where she teaches ESL and is currently pursuing a Master of Arts in Interdisciplinary Studies.

The post PETRA LAPTISTE appeared first on FEW Japan.

MOM IN BALANCE

FEW Communications — Thu, 17 Sep 2020 06:49:28 +0000

Mom in Balance Tokyo offers outdoor workouts for pregnant women, postpartum recovery workouts and total body workouts for all women who want to be fit and in shape, regardless of your sports background or level of physical fitness.

Our workouts consist of a combination of strength and cardio, teamwork and individual exercises, as well as high intensity interval training. During the pregnant and postnatal workouts we focus on safe reeducation of the pelvic floor as well as the core muscles.

All our trainers have a professional education and are specialized in pre- and postnatal workouts.

We all know that it can be quite a challenge to combine children, friends, work and a full agenda, let alone do this overseas! Our mission is to help as many women and moms (to-be) as possible in building a strong, energetic life foundation.

We do this together with our network of positive women, who all find themselves in the same situation here in Japan; trying to raise a family.
When you are feeling physically and mentally good about yourself, it is easier to make the right choices, to work on your personal ambitions and enjoy your family.

We touch women’s lives and inspire them to be at their best. We believe in a positive and personal approach. We will do the best we can, always.
Sounds good!? Register through our website:
https://www.mominbalance.com/japan/en/signup/

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LAUREN BLISS KAWASAKI

FEW Communications — Wed, 16 Sep 2020 13:42:46 +0000

I am an American mother of four curious and creative kids (22,20,16 and 8) and one very supportive husband who is a Japanese native. In total, I have lived in Japan for 24 years (over three stints).

Originally from Connecticut, I spent my childhood raising farm animals and creating art. I graduated from Skidmore College with degrees in Business and Fine Arts; my junior year I spent at Kansai Gaidai in Osaka.

For the past 20+ years, I have been on the corporate track; gaining an MBA from Harvard Business School, working in brand management at Clorox, helping to start BabyCenter.com, and finally working 14 years at Amazon.com and .jp.

In 2014, I retired from corporate life and am now a mompreneur. Best Living Japan is me following my passion and sharing it with others. Best Living Japan runs a website that helps global families living in and traveling to Japan have more fun! We also have a studio where we teach various art, cooking & lifestyle classes.

I am also a Girl Scout leader of Troop #20605 in Tokyo, a Trustee of The American School in Japan, and a Committee Member of the Asian University of Women.

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SABRINA HASSANALI

FEW Communications — Tue, 15 Sep 2020 07:39:16 +0000

Sabrina Hassanali incorporated her first company, a boutique floral design business, at age eighteen, just before beginning her studies at the Georgia Institute of Technology. After completing her undergraduate degree there, she obtained her Juris Doctor at the University of Maryland School of Law in 2008. Shortly after graduation, she began her legal career advising corporate and individual clients on US immigration matters. Disappointed in the draconian and backward US immigration system, Sabrina always kept various side projects to develop other skills.

Partially inspired by Tim Ferris’s 4-Hour Workweek, and Robert Kiyosaki’s Rich Dad, Poor Dad, Sabrina decided to engage more fully in her own business ventures. In 2014, Sabrina relocated to coastal South Carolina and combined her business interest with her legal skills. She developed a small real-estate business with a portfolio of three properties. She worked as a real-estate closing attorney, representing large banks and mortgage lenders while serving as a property manager and AirBnb host for her personal portfolio.

Shortly after Trump’s election to the US presidency, Sabrina decided to leave the US. In 2017, Sabrina began work as a JET at Nishi High School while remotely managing her interests in the US. At Nishi, Sabrina used her debate, writing, and public speaking skills to help her students develop their communication skills. In 2018, FEW sponsored Sabrina’s participation in the Japan Market Expansion Competition (JMEC). Through the program, Sabrina led her team to win the Best Market Research award to investigate expansion opportunities in Japan for a Spanish multinational motorcycle brakes company.

Since 2019, Sabrina has applied her business experience in advising Tokyo-based businesses. She enjoys working with progressive organizations to address business challenges through her bespoke consulting service. For more information visit https://sabrinahassanali.com/

For recreation, Sabrina enjoys off-grid adventures in nature or eating strange foods abroad. Since COVID-19 has placed a damper on her travels, she started a creative T-shirt business inspired by Japanese manholes. For more information visit www.tokyoground.com

Sabrina Hassanali comes from a family of adventurous entrepreneurs and empowered women. She can find relatives on five continents; they are collectively part of the larger Indian diaspora. Sabrina Hassanali grew up in Atlanta, Georgia, but has also lived in Tanzania and Argentina. She considers herself a global citizen.

Sabrina is a life-long advocate of a balanced professional life. She makes time for public service, a salaried role, and a side business in her professional endeavors. Through her example and leadership, she hopes to inspire others to keep growing.