GET TO KNOW ME
Do you want to know more about me? Then you have come to the right place.
If you have any additional questions, you can contact me at any time.
THIS IS ME
When I was around 8 years old, I stumbled upon the enchanting Japanese television drama 'Oshin,' and it transformed my life in ways I could have never imagined. What I saw onscreen captivated me so deeply that I felt an unstoppable urge to explore further.
This lifelong journey into Japanese culture has taken me from being a cross-cultural consultant to embracing the vibrant world of professional Taiko drumming, among many other adventures!
Today, as I focus on HR and business consultancy and coaching, I carry with me a treasure trove of unique experiences and insights. My passion for Japan's rich traditions infuses my work with creativity and innovation while ensuring that tangible results are achieved.
KOKOROZASHI
During my MBA studies at GLOBIS University in Tokyo, I learned more about Kokorozashi. Kokorozashi is more than a mission, it's what really drives you deep down.
It helped me understand what really inspired me in my life, and why I felt I needed to pivot after a successful career in Belgium.
In my entire career, connecting and helping people has always been the most important ingredient. Delivering quality on time as an Office and Operations Manager, providing a one-stop solution as an independent entrepreneur, and now finally really helping people work better together and feel like they belong at work.
Because GLOBIS has given me so much, I volunteer to help whenever I can. A little thing I can do to give back and pay it forward.
Over the years, I’ve had the pleasure of working with and for various Japanese companies, which has been such a rewarding experience.
I’ve had the joy of training in Ikebana, the beautiful art of flower arranging, and performing Taiko, a traditional Japanese drumming, during company events. Using my understanding of Japanese culture, I’ve worked hard to bridge differences in work styles and foster better communication.
It’s also been thrilling and rewarding to share the energy of Taiko with audiences ranging from small gatherings to thousands of excited fans!
With over 20 years of immersion in this enriching culture, I'm grateful for the opportunity to keep learning every day, particularly through deep and meaningful conversations with my spouse, Makoto.
MOST RELEVANT BLOGPOSTS
How it all began ... watching Oshin changed my life!
Volunteering to find your tribe: Japanese American Cemetery Cleanup
Embracing the seasons: walking and hiking in Japan and California
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TRAINING AND EXPERIENCE
EXPERIENCE
2023 - today
Executive Director USA, Senior Consultant and Coach | Japan Consulting Office, CA
2021 - 2024
People Operations Manager / HRBP | The Workplace Wellness Project, CA
2020 - 2021
People Operations Manager | Berkeley Dog & Cat Hospital, CA
2019 - 2020
Consultant & Trainer | Japan Consulting Office, CA
2018 - 2019
Community & HR Manager | Bureau Works, CA
2015-2017
HR Specialist (Diversity & Inclusion and Global Talent) | Deloitte Touche Tohmatsu LLC, Tokyo, Japan
2008 - 2013
Business Owner | Its' Art bvba & The Japan Cultural Center npo, Belgium
1998 - 2008
Office Manager to Interim Director | TecMate International NV, Belgium
1997 - 1998
Coordinator for International Relations | JET Program at Komatsu City Hall, Ishikawa Prefecture, Japan
TRAINING & CERTIFICATES
2025
CTI-Trained Coach | Co-Active Training Institute | CA, USA
2024
Senior Certified Professional (SHRM-SCP ) | SHRM | CA, USA
2020
Inclusive Workspace Culture Specialty | SHRM | CA, USA
2018
Certified Professional (SHRM-CP) | SHRM | CA, USA
2013 - 2014
MBA with HR Concentration | GLOBIS University | Tokyo, Japan
1992 - 1997
MA Japanese Studies | KU Leuven | Leuven, Belgium
DUTCH (native level)
ENGLISH (native level)
JAPANESE (N2 business level)
FRENCH (business level)
GERMAN (conversational level)