I hope this letter finds you well.
I am thrilled to share an extraordinary experience I recently had at Hosei University. Hosei University was founded in 1880 and heavily influenced by the French legal tradition as it was headed by a famous French legal scholar. It is one of Tokyo's esteemed educational institutions. It was an immense honour and privilege to stand (online) before a group of inspiring students and deliver a lecture on the world of social business and B-Corp initiatives, with a special focus on remarkable brands like SEP and Patagonia. I also had a chance to share my personal journey, Kaikô, and our impressive artisan partners, and to delve into pressing issues related to sustainability and business.
The exchange with these young minds was truly invaluable, as it proved to be far more than a one-way teaching process. Instead, it evolved into a dynamic and enriching conversation that left me profoundly inspired. The enthusiasm, curiosity, and thought-provoking questions from the students reinforced my belief that the power of education and encounters will lead to the potential for positive change.
I also came to realise that my unique journey, being born in Japan, living in 10 countries, working in international law and development, and becoming a full-time mother to four children before founding a social business, has been empowering particularly for female students. Achieving a work-life-family balance, especially in Japan (and even in Europe), is no easy feat for women. However, I am hopeful that by uniting and working together with the young generations, we can create a positive impact on society. Collaboration is the absolute key to driving meaningful change!
It is my dream to establish a unique platform that serves as a catalyst, making our world a kinder place for people, the planet, and cultural heritage, going beyond being a mere platform to sell exquisite artisan-made treasures. Through this platform, I aspire to foster mutual education, celebrate differences, and create a world without prejudice or discrimination, embracing diversity. And traditional craftsmanship, with its inherent beauty and value, plays a vital role in realising this vision.
My recent experience at Hosei University perfectly aligns with Kaikô's mission. It reaffirms the importance of sharing knowledge, experiences, and stories, as it has the potential to inspire and empower the younger generation to become active agents of positive change in our global community.
I am excited to continue this journey of exploration and growth with like-minded individuals. As we move forward, I invite you to join me on this adventure, exploring the beauty and power of encounters. If you have any thoughts or experiences related to the impact of education or if you'd like to share your own learning journey, please share in the comments! Together, we can create a world where understanding and empathy flourish, paving the way for personal and collective growth.
Have a good day,
Kana, Founder of Kaikô