When two people you deeply respect, Glen S. Fukushima and Jackie Funasaki, nominate you for something, you pause. Titles and invitation-only honors have never been my thing. But this one? It means something.

Glen is not only one of the founders of the US‑Japan Council but a lifelong advocate for U.S.-Japan relations, a former trade negotiator, and someone whose leadership has shaped policy and business across the Pacific. Jackie is a powerhouse in the East Bay, a connector who brings people together with purpose and energy. She’s the kind of person who knows everyone, remembers what matters to them, and makes introductions that change lives. Her ability to build community is a masterclass in generosity and intention. Their confidence in me means more than any title ever could.Click below to read more!

Last Friday, I had the privilege of attending a Japan Society event featuring master carver Nambu Hakuun III, a living link to the centuries-old tradition of Inami woodcarving. Watching him work was like stepping into a dialogue between past and present.

When I lived in neighboring Ishikawa, I visited Toyama, though not Inami town itself, and remember being struck by its deep sense of history. Toyama Prefecture is known for its rich cultural heritage, from traditional crafts to breathtaking landscapes framed by the Tateyama mountain range. Still, I’m amazed at how much more there is to learn about Japanese craftsmanship. These artisans carry generations of skill, yet remain so humble and eager to share their craft. There’s no sense of ego, only quiet pride in preserving something beautiful for the next generation.

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