What inspired you to work for ASCA Tech Lab?
Diversity and inclusivity: Working for ASCA Tech Lab allows me to be part of a diverse and inclusive community that values different perspectives and experiences. It creates a dynamic and enriching work environment experience.
ASCA Tech Lab offers the opportunity to learn about different cultures, customs, and languages. This has expanded my knowledge and understanding of the world. Because ASCA Tech Lab is a multicultural company, we have global reach and offer opportunities for career development and advancement. This includes the opportunity to work in different countries or regions, gain international experience, and develop cross-cultural communication skills. Personally, I've worked in more than 20 different countries so far.
Finally, ASCA Tech Lab helps my personal growth and development. It makes me think differently, be more adaptable, and develop empathy and respect for different cultures.
This photo was taken during a quick tour visit to an agriculture industry.
What advice would you tell your pre-travel self?
Don't be afraid of the culture and language barrier. Try to understand different cultures with an open heart and enjoy the differences. Be open to experiencing new cultures and different ways of life. Try not to judge or compare, but instead embrace the differences and appreciate them.
Take the time to learn about the culture you are experiencing. Read books, watch documentaries, or talk to people who are familiar with the culture. Whether it's trying new food or participating in a cultural activity, try new things because it is a great way to enjoy and appreciate cultural differences.
Travel to different parts of Japan because it is a great way to experience and learn about different cultures. Also, connect with locals and learn from them by asking questions and engaging in conversations about their culture and way of life. Share your own culture with others and invite them to learn about it. This helps to foster a mutual understanding and appreciation of cultural differences.
Remember that cultural differences can be humorous and amusing. Embrace the differences with a sense of humor and a lighthearted attitude.
Why should someone choose ASCA Tech Lab over competitors?
We are a local company with a global heart. We understand the locals but we move globally. If you want to understand how Japan works, we are the only resource you can get. We will show the real industries without sugar-coating.
This is me taking a group selfie with some of my good friends with most of us masked up.
What is ASCA Tech Lab's mission and how do you continue to work toward it?
Our core business is to bridge innovative ideas and products around the globe. We listen profoundly to each dream and vision. I use my networks, facilitation skills and language skills to ensure every potential idea or special talent in this world is not wasted.
What do you hope participants take away from your programs?
I hope each participant does well in the self development area. We want them to learn the three important skills: technical skills, human skills, and conceptual skills.
This was during a fun university visit to the private university in Japan, Kinki University.
Why is it important for people to travel abroad and experience new cultures?
Traveling to a foreign country can be a transformative experience that leads to personal growth and self-discovery. It can help you to challenge yourself, step out of your comfort zone, and develop new skills and qualities.
By traveling abroad, you can enhance communication skills as well. Traveling to a foreign country often requires communicating with people who speak different languages. This can help you to develop your communication skills and learn how to adapt to different communication styles.
We have fun after work too! Here I gathered with my colleagues to bowl together!
What does meaningful travel mean to you?
Meaningful travel to me means that I found something in me that was "new" after the trip. It doesn't matter how tiny the growth is, it is important. I enjoy fun travel and I love luxury hotels, however at the same time I enjoy the "hard" time for me to grow.
For example, when I traveled to Hong Kong, I got lost until I met several Muslims that helped us. From our conversation, I understood that Muslim travelers in Hong Kong had a hard time enjoying the food because of their diet restrictions. Then I became more considerate about food when I met new people.