I’m originally from Kobe, Japan, a city where the mountains, cityscape, and ocean beautifully coexist, which has influenced my appreciation for balance and harmony in design. Last year, I graduated from Parsons School of Design with a major in Communication Design.

My passion lies in developing visual identities for brands, and I strive to create designs that not only capture the essence of a brand but also drive its growth. I am currently working as a designer at a couple of agencies.

I initially began my career working with the Japanese government, where I supported startups looking to establish themselves in Japan through direct investment. While working with these companies, I noticed a recurring issue: many had innovative technologies and products but lacked the visual resources or cohesive branding to effectively communicate their value.

This disconnect between their offerings and how they were perceived by the public sparked my interest in the importance of visual identity. I realized that a strong design could make these innovations more accessible, trustworthy, and appealing.

Creativity has always been part of my life. Since childhood, I’ve loved creating things that move and inspire people. However, it wasn’t until this realization that I found the courage to fully embrace my passion for design and make the career shift into the creative field. Since then, I’ve been dedicated to helping brands find their voice and connect with their audience through impactful, thoughtful design.

As a multidisciplinary designer, I’ve been working at branding and advertising agencies in New York, where I’ve had the opportunity to collaborate with diverse clients across various industries and I take great pride in helping businesses grow by developing designs that not only resonate with their audiences but also communicate their values clearly.

To me, creativity is about bringing something unexpected yet compelling to life. Something that sparks inspiration, evokes emotion, or challenges perspectives. It’s about connecting ideas in unique ways to solve problems, whether in design, branding, or communication.

A creative idea or design is one that not only looks visually striking but also serves a purpose. It should solve a problem, convey a clear message, and resonate with its intended audience.

My design process always begins with extensive research. This phase helps me immerse myself in the industry, understand the brand, and analyze current market trends. By gathering insights into the target audience, competitors, and cultural context, I can approach the project with a strong foundation.

From there, I brainstorm and sketch ideas, allowing room for exploration and experimentation. I believe that creativity often emerges in the unexpected, so I’m open to trying out various concepts and thinking beyond the obvious. Once I have a solid direction, I start refining the designs, focusing on details that bring the brand’s vision to life.

Throughout the process, I continuously gather feedback from clients and my team to ensure we’re aligned with the project goals. For me, the creative process is both strategic and collaborative.

My favorite part of the creative process is the brainstorming phase, where I get to craft ideas based on the insights gathered from research. I love the freedom and excitement of this stage. It's when ideas are raw, unfiltered, and full of potential.

As someone still early in my career, I embrace the opportunity to explore a wide range of creative styles rather than sticking to a specific one. I believe this versatility allows me to grow and challenge myself in different ways, adapting to the unique needs of each project. For me, the focus is on what the client wants and ensuring that the design reflects their vision.

Yes, I believe my country and cultural heritage have had a significant impact on my creative process. Japanese design principles, particularly the concept of 'less is more,' have deeply influenced my approach to creativity. It allows me to create designs that feel clean, thoughtful, and impactful, while still conveying a strong message.

Thank you! Winning this award is truly an honor, and it means a lot to me both personally and professionally. This award not only validates my creative approach but also opens doors to new opportunities, helping me build credibility in the design industry and expand my network.

The biggest challenge with this project was figuring out how to stand out from competitors in a crowded market.

To gain a better understanding of the industry and its nuances, I made two trips to the farms involved in the project. These visits provided invaluable insights into the processes behind the products, allowing me to connect with the farmers and appreciate their dedication. This firsthand experience helped shape my design approach, ensuring that the final outcome not only stood out visually but also authentically represented the brand’s mission and values.

Limitless creativity, continuous learning, and seeing your work in the world!

I recommend exploring various online courses, especially if you’re starting as a self-learner, as I did for learning technical skills. Platforms like Skillshare, Udemy, and LinkedIn Learning offer a wide range of classes tailored to different skill levels.

My greatest inspiration is my mother. Although she isn’t a creative professional, she embodies strength and independence. Throughout her career as a doctor, she has pursued her passion for helping others while simultaneously raising three children, including me. Her unwavering determination and ability to balance her professional and personal life motivate me every day.

My key to success lies in hard work and resilience. I believe that while creative talent is essential, it is not the sole determinant of success. What truly matters is my passion for learning and improving every day. I approach each challenge as an opportunity for growth, understanding that perseverance is crucial in overcoming obstacles.