ABOUT ME
My infatuation with Japan started during a family trip to Expo 88 in Brisbane, where I was captivated by the Japan Pavilion. Thinking about it, my childhood love of Japanese TV shows like Monkey Magic and Astro Boy probably played a part too! In high school, I spent a transformative year living with a Japanese family in the rural northern prefecture of Akita. Determined to deepen my understanding of Japanese culture and society, I went on to study Japanese, anthropology and international politics at Tsuda College in Tokyo and the Australian National University in Canberra.
At a travel event in Tel Aviv, Israel. Attending trade shows around the world to promote Japan was one of my many roles as Head of Marketing & Communications for the Japan National Tourism Organization.
18 Years with the Japanese Government
After graduating, I lived and worked in the subtropical islands of Okinawa, where I gained a deeper appreciation of the diversity of Japan and its distinct regional cultures. This eventually led me to London, where I spent nearly 14 years as Head of Marketing & Communications for the Japan National Tourism Organization.
During my tenure, I led a wide range of projects, from coordinating TV shoots and press trips to developing marketing campaigns, and played a key role in crisis communications following the devastating 2011 earthquake and tsunami.
His Royal Highness the Prince of Wales at the Grand Opening of Japan House London
Bringing Japanese Culture to the World
My experience promoting Japanese culture continued as Director at Japan House London and later as Head of Japanese Experiences at Pantechnicon, where I curated events ranging from sake supper clubs and guest chef dinners to craft workshops and cooking classes. Working closely with Japanese chefs, artists, craftspeople and other creatives, I helped bring the diversity of contemporary Japanese culture to international audiences. Explore the Experiential Marketing section for a closer look at these projects.
Representing Japanese Destinations & Creative Talent
Fluency in Japanese, a diploma in journalism, certification as a sake sommelier and the GSTC Professional Certificate in Sustainable Tourism reflect my experience and interests. Having explored 46 of Japan's 47 prefectures (just Gunma remains!), I’ve developed a deep appreciation for the regions beyond the well-trodden paths of Tokyo and Kyoto. With Japan facing the challenges of overtourism in its major cities, my focus is increasingly on helping lesser-known destinations share their unique stories and amplifying the work of Japan’s talented artists, chefs, brewers, craftspeople and designers.
After many years of helping others tell stories about Japan, in September 2026 I will also see my work in print as one of the writers and interviewers for Lonely Planet’s Love Japan, contributing interviews with Japanese experts and creatives across the country.
