From Komatsu to California: Joining USJETAA and reflecting on a cross-cultural journey
I recently joined USJETAA (U.S. Japan Exchange & Teaching Alumni Association) as a corporate sponsor, and it’s already sparked a wave of reflection. The JET Program was more than just a first job, it was a turning point. My placement in rural Komatsu, nestled in Ishikawa Prefecture, gave me a front-row seat to a culture that challenged and reshaped my understanding of logic, communication, and connection.
Coming from mainland Europe, I was used to a certain linearity in thought and expression. Japan introduced me to a different kind of logic: one that is often contextual, intuitive, and deeply relational. This difference is beautifully embedded in the structure of the Japanese language, which, while elegant, can be incredibly difficult to learn for those of us raised on Indo-European grammar. But that challenge was part of the magic, it taught me to listen differently, to observe more closely, and to embrace ambiguity.
That experience stayed with me. It inspired me to return to Japan years later to pursue an MBA at GLOBIS, where I deepened my understanding of Japanese business culture and strategy. That led to a role at Deloitte Tohmatsu, where I became their first non-Japanese HR employee, a milestone that shaped my career in ways I’m still discovering.
Today, I run my own business in the U.S., supporting Japanese companies navigating HR and cross-cultural challenges. It’s a full-circle moment, and I’m excited to share this journey at my first official USJETAA event in October, where I’ll support the speakers talking about their path from “JET to HR: Turning Global Experience into People-Focused Careers”. Join us on October 21st, it’s free!
USJETAA plays a vital role in keeping the JET community connected and empowered. It supports alumni across the U.S. through networking, professional development, cultural programming, and grants; all designed to strengthen U.S.-Japan relations and amplify the impact of the JET experience long after participants return home. As a corporate sponsor, I’m proud to contribute to this mission and help foster meaningful cross-cultural exchange.
This journey of mine, from Flanders to Komatsu to California, continues to shape the work I do as Saske HR Ninja as well as with Japan Consulting Office. Whether it’s training HR teams, supporting expats, or building bridges between Japanese and American business cultures, the lessons I learned through JET are still at the heart of everything I do.
Want to know more about current Japanese business practices or need training and support? At Japan Consulting Office, we specialize in equipping professionals to thrive in cross-cultural environments. Whether you’re looking for group training or one-on-one sessions, we’ve got you covered!
If you want to learn more about bridging language and cultural gaps in Japanese business, why not join one of our sessions! Here’s the link to upcoming sessions (make sure to select your timezone
