TEAM
Hikari NONAKA
Co-CEO
Background
While attending the Faculty of Education at the University of the Ryukyus, I also had the chance to study abroad in 8 Asian countries. I worked in a consulting company in Tokyo, and after participating in the Earthquake Reconstruction Support program in Miyagi Prefecture, I did a U-turn and completely changed my trajectory by moving back to Okinawa. Starting my experience in fostering entrepreneurs as a representative at Lagoon Koza, I helped in the foundation of over 60 companies over the years and participated in a wide range of projects including educational ventures and industrial promotion for local governments and public offices. I founded HelloWorld with the aim of "creating a society where it is normal to have friends from every country in the world", offering the chance for anyone to easily experience "study abroad".
What do you like about HelloWorld?
The fact that the circles of diverse stakeholders that share our vision is growing.
What is next for you in the future?
To make HelloWorld Cultural Exchange and WorldClassroom global products.
Keisuke TOMIDA
Tommy
Co-CEO
Background
Raised in Okinawa. I studied English Education and Applied Linguistics at the University of the Ryukyus and took advantage of its study abroad exchange programs; that gave me the chance to study in the diverse environment of the State of Nevada. I began to think about the importance of “equal learning opportunities for all children” through my part-time jobs as a university student youth supporter and cram school teacher. My ambition is, through WorldClassroom, to support the uniqueness and the diversity in careers of the students, going beyond mere English learning. Specifically, I am very excited for the diffusion of WorldClassroom in Public Education, and I am doing my best towards such goal!
What do you like about HelloWorld?
The fact that we don't draw lines and borders on the world map!
What is next for you in the future?
To operate on a global scale!
Yukitoshi UEZATO
Outside Director
Background
I was born in Koza (now Okinawa City), Okinawa. I worked for 27 years at the Okinawa City Hall, where I participated in defining the City's tourism policies and setting up a support infrastructure for startups (currently Lagoon KOZA). I also oversaw the city's Children's Policy Department in measures to improve children waiting lists for daycares and contrast child poverty. In December 2020, I have retired early from public service at Okinawa City Hall and have now joined HelloWorld to create "a society where it is normal to have friends from every country in the world".
What do you like about HelloWorld?
Everyone's youthful, challenging spirit is so incredible!!!
What is next for you in the future?
First of all, to realize a society where children in Okinawa can experience international exchange as something part of their everyday lives.
Hidekazu YAMAMOTO
CTO
Background
Born and raised in Adachi City, Tokyo. I am father of two children. Before working as a full stack engineer, I worked at an electronics store fixing televisions and installing air conditioners, while previously I was a highway planner. As an engineer, I have developed offshore systems alongside locals in Beijing, China. I joined HelloWorld both because of its values, and because I thought this job could offer me a wide range of learning opportunities in improving the company's backend system as well as developing new technological products such as WorldClassroom.
What do you like about HelloWorld?
The fact that everybody is high energy. We might have our own doubts, but we turn them into fuel (or we simply let them go) and always do our best.
What is next for you in the future?
I want to learn English in order to make friends from the whole world.
Shota SUZUKI
CPO
Background
I was born and raised in Nagoya. I studied Industrial Design at Nagoya City University School of Design and Architecture. In 2016 I joined en Japan Inc., where I was for about 7 years Product Manager in charge of AMBI, a scouting service started in April 2017 to assist promising young resources in changing careers. Drawn in by its sincerity in pursuing educational goals, in 2024 I joined HelloWorld.
What do you like about HelloWorld?
The fact that everybody has a genuine passion for the difficult field of education.
What is next for you in the future?
I want to accelerate our growth through the power of our products!
Yoshisada TSUSHIMA
CHO
Background
Born in Sapporo, I have acquired an MBA at Drucker School of Management in Claremont Graduate University. I have worked on overseas ventures and banking system at IBM and have accumulated experience in numerous roles: developing Malaysian markets as Senior Managing Director of Japan Facility, overseeing environmental non-profit work as a member of Coop Sapporo executive committee, was Officer in Charge for travel business, CDO, and so on. I am now living in Bali with my three elementary school children, enjoying the diversity of overseas environments which I value as a precious asset. I would like to connect this experience of diversity to Hokkaido, Okinawa, and other parts of Japan through HW.
What do you like about HelloWorld?
Making friends around the world! And the fact that we work to offer such opportunity to anyone!
What is next for you in the future?
I want to cultivate opportunities for fun connections among Okinawa, Japan and the World, while being centered around my beautiful Hokkaido and the Bali Island, where I currently live.
Rina HANASHIRO
Educational Travel/Corporate Business Director
Background
After graduating Okinawa International University, I was in charge of educational travels at a large travel company. Conducting tours gave me the chance to develop an interest in international exchange and different lifestyles, so I took leave from work to study in the Philippines and then moved to Canada for a working holiday. My experiences abroad and in educational travels gave birth to a strong desire for students to have many learning opportunities leading to their future: this is the reason why I joined HelloWorld.
What do you like about HelloWorld?
The environment full of vitality where we can overcome any difficulties with a smile.
What is next for you in the future?
I want for more and more children to have a dream and develop a challenging spirit through HelloWorld's programs.
Yuka KODAMA
Dama
general director
Background
Born in Hyogo prefecture. Since I was a child, I have been interested in overseas countries and Education: to this day, I have enjoyed traveling to about 30 countries. After working in IT for a major electronics manufacturer and at BizReach in CS / Marketing and Company Development, I joined HelloWorld in November 2022. I am currently Director of the Guest and Host Teams in the HelloWorld Cultural Exchange Department, and I am in charge of the company's PR across all departments. My life work is to expand children’s choices and possibilities, in order for them to grow into fulfilled individuals that respect diversity and individuality!
What do you like about HelloWorld?
The fact that huge amounts of sweets disappear within seconds!
What is next for you in the future?
The renewal of the field of Education.
Shino YAMAMURA
Manager
Background
Born and raised in Fukuoka. I have been deeply interested in nature and overseas countries since I was little, and I chose to enroll in Akita International University to learn both. I conducted an in-depth field study about “Green-tourism” between Akita Prefecture and the United States. The experience of living in an intercultural share-house for 5 years brought me to work as a Japanese teacher in Indonesia. After returning, I joined an education company and helped developing curriculum and materials for online English-speaking classes. At HelloWorld, I want to create opportunities where more people can have fun learning different languages and cultures around the world.
What do you like about HelloWorld?
The environment and the social context that allows for mutual learning
What is next for you in the future?
To make WorldClassroom a tool used in every country and around the world, and to spread HelloWorld's name!
Akira IGUCHI
Host Manager
Background
Born and raised in Argentina. Graduated from the University of Buenos Aires in 2015 to become a lawyer. Earned a master’s degree in administrative law and while working for the Argentine government’s Ministry of Transportation, he decided to move to Okinawa with the dream of becoming a bridge between his two hometowns, Argentina and Okinawa.
What do you like about HelloWorld?
Providing a wider perspective of the world to the Japanese Youth.
What is next for you in the future?
I want to keep improving my Japanese and gain more skills.
Tatsuma KONNO
Manager of the CEO's Office
Background
Born and raised in Okinawa, I studied pedagogy at the Faculty of Education of Hiroshima University and then transferred to Sanno University to study business management with the intention of starting my own start-up business. After returning to Okinawa, I joined HelloWorld Inc. eager to see people grow through cross-cultural experiences and exchanges.
What do you like about HelloWorld?
Being able to work with a diverse group of people!
What is next for you in the future?
The realization of a society where anyone can easily experience a cultural exchange regardless of their surroundings or situation.
Akie KARIMATA
Manager
Background
I was born in Hokkaido. My dream was to contribute to cross-cultural understanding, international exchange and peace by teaching about my language and my country outside Japan, so I worked towards becoming a Japanese language teacher. After graduating Okinawa International University, I did an internship as Japanese language instructor at the University of Macau. I then returned to Okinawa, where at a consulting company in the Prefecture I took care of the General Accounting for commissioned business from Public Offices. After some time in Welfare Services, I joined HelloWorld in April 2022 sharing its mission.
What do you like about HelloWorld?
The fact that we are positive, and we enjoy Japanese traditional festivals.
What is next for you in the future?
To expand HelloWorld to the world!
Yuko MISHIRO
Global Director
Background
I was born in Tokyo and grew up in New York. I graduated from Keio Law School; during my studies I have worked in children's homes as a volunteer. I then started working at McKinsey & Company. When the Democratic Republic of Timor-Leste declared its independence, I contributed in drafting its Constitution. I also took part in "Ship for World Youth", a project developed by the Japanese Cabinet Office. After receiving a Master's Degree in Social Policy from the London School of Economics I worked at Benesse Corporation on a new programs towards the development of skills and independent mindset for the 21st century. Since the birth of my children, I am active as a freelancer, supporting passionate social leaders and organizations: this is how my connection to HelloWorld was formed. I have lived in 5 countries and visited more than 40. I am a mother of three.
What do you like about HelloWorld?
The straight-forward vision and mission ✨
What is next for you in the future?
To collect and tell the story of many people!
Taiga KOIZUMI
Taiga
Director of Business Development
Background
Graduated from Keio University's Faculty of Economics. Joined the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) as a new graduate, engaging primarily in ODA projects related to industrial and infrastructure development in the Asian region. While stationed in Mongolia, led initiatives including the establishment of Mongolia's ICT/startup ecosystem and projects for international airport construction and new city development. Upon returning to Japan, gained sales experience in an ICT education-related company. Believing in the potential for reducing the likelihood of war by providing a global learning environment in public education, joined HelloWorld Co., Ltd.
What do you like about HelloWorld?
Warm and passionate team members
What is next for you in the future?
Delivering international exchange experiences to children worldwide, aiming to eradicate war.
Mitsuki KUNIYOSHI
LX・operation manager
Background
Born and raised in Okinawa. I spent two years abroad in Switzerland and Germany in my teens. During my stay in Germany, I came into contact with an African refugee whose home country was facing civil war, and such experience sparked an interest in International Politics. I majored in International Relations at two different universities both in Japan and the U.S., where my main focus was on human rights and the social integration of immigrants. After graduating from both universities, I worked at a Non-Profit Organization in Okinawa, where I coordinated JICA (Japan International Cooperation Agency) projects and schools support through ICT tools. I then joined HelloWorld with the aim to create a multicultural society where different identities are respected.
What do you like about HelloWorld?
The fact that we can constantly challenge ourselves with new things in an environment that allows us to cultivate ourselves and encourage each other. And above all the fact that we really like each other!
What is next for you in the future?
To expand to the whole world!
Yu TAKAHASHI
Business Alliance Leader
Background
Born and raised in Nishiizu, Shizuoka. While I was attending high school in Nagoya, I spent one year abroad in Canada as an exchange student and once back I majored in Liberal Arts at Dōshisha University in Kyoto. For a year, I have also studied politics at the University of California, Berkeley. After graduating, I started working in a large travel company and I was in charge of inbound operations for the European market. I decided to quit and join HelloWorld after being struck by its mission of making domestic intercultural exchange a reality, by its social impact and after being inspired by the children’s energy.
What do you like about HelloWorld?
Everyone at HelloWorld is a positive, passionate individual for English Education and Cultural Diversity!
What is next for you in the future?
To reach more children in the Kanto area with HelloWorld Cultural Exchange and deepen the interaction with communities of people that have roots overseas!
Manaka OSADA
chief coordinator
Background
Raised in Okinawa. I studied English Education and Applied Linguistics at the University of the Ryukyus and took advantage of its study abroad exchange programs; that gave me the chance to study in the diverse environment of the State of Nevada. I began to think about the importance of “equal learning opportunities for all children” through my part-time jobs as a university student youth supporter and cram school teacher. My ambition is, through WorldClassroom, to support the uniqueness and the diversity in careers of the students, going beyond mere English learning. Specifically, I am very excited for WorldClassroom's diffusion in Public Education, and I am doing my best towards such goal!
What do you like about HelloWorld?
Growing at sonic speeds (both the company and I)!
What is next for you in the future?
I want to become an expert on Customer Success and maximize the Customer Experience for WorldClassroom both nationally and internationally!!
Shiori MASUDA
Coordinator
Background
Born and raised in Okinawa. My field of expertise is Language Education: I hold a license for teaching English in elementary, middle and high schools, and a Japanese teaching certificate. I have been working as a language instructor for 17 years. During my studies at the University of Hawaiʻi in Mānoa, I became interested in remote international exchange and with great enthusiasm consequently joined HelloWorld as a Coordinator.
What do you like about HelloWorld?
I like that the Staff is bright and energetic.
What is next for you in the future?
Increasing the number of classrooms connected to the world, I want to create more opportunities for children to learn about and respect their own and others' culture.
Yuko ISHIOKA
Sales Support Specialist
Background
Born and raised in Kanagawa Prefecture. As I often played in the park with children who lived on a U.S. military base, I became interested in the English language and chose a junior and senior high school with special focus on English education. During her school years, she studied abroad in China, Australia, and Canada and participated in an international discussion program with high school students from around the world. After working for a major manufacturer, her desire to stay abroad for an extended period of time grew, so she resigned from her job and went to Canada again on a working holiday. Even in Spain, where she currently lives, she feels that she can open people’s hearts by greeting them in the local language and smiling. She wants to make the world a place where everyone can smile and have fun, no matter where they are from!
What do you like about HelloWorld?
The fact that everyone loves HelloWorld (the company, its services, the colleagues, everything!).
What is next for you in the future?
I want to keep up with HelloWorld's fast pace and welcome big changes and growth for myself.
Rina TAKAESU
Mush
Coordinator
Background
I am a proud Okinawan, born and raised in Okinawa, rich in culture and chanpuru, surrounded by diversity. When I was studying at University of the Ryukyus I spent an abroad study period in the UK and I was struck by the different ways English is spoken around the world while enjoying cross-cultural encounters with international people. After an internship period, I was fascinated by HelloWorld's mission and its members and I decided to join the company!
What do you like about HelloWorld?
The fact that regardless of one's division you can talk with everyone freely. The fact that, although each of us has their own opinions, we are all very serious on making our mission of "a friend in each country around the world" a reality through HelloWorld Cultural Exchange and WorldClassroom.
What is next for you in the future?
To spread HelloWorld's thought throughout the world!
Hinako KISHIMOTO
Coordinator
Background
Born and raised in Ginowan, Okinawa. While specializing in elementary school education at university, I also obtained a middle and high school license in teaching English. Since elementary school I have always loved English classes, so I naturally got interested in pursuing a career using English. While in college, I studied abroad in Australia for a month. I am also strongly interested in environmental issues and aim to create a world where everyone, both people and the earth, are happy. Today, after feeling on my skin the connections and possibilities that English allows for, I am currently working with HelloWorld to spread the joy of English to as many people as possible.
What do you like about HelloWorld?
Its atmosphere of mutual acceptance for everyone's personalities.
What is next for you in the future?
Chinatsu CHINEN
Coordinator
Background
Born and raised in Haebaru, Okinawa. I attended Shuri High School and graduated with a degree in English from the Department of Education at the University of the Ryukyus. While in university, I studied abroad in Toronto for a year experiencing first-hand the pleasure of learning English in a practical way. After returning to Japan, I came across HelloWorld as an intern where day after day I could feel my personal growth. I joined HelloWorld in order to pursue my ideal of English Education not only as a school subject but as something that broadens one's world and mind.
What do you like about HelloWorld?
The fact that is flexible and very high energy!!!
What is next for you in the future?
From Okinawa to the world! To keep offering to all children initiatives to broaden their views!
Ayano MICHAELS
Coordinator
Background
I was born and raised in Okinawa. After my marriage, I have lived for more than 10 years in America and the U.K. teaching Japanese while raising my children. Having experienced both learning and teaching languages, I want to contribute to shifting the perception Japanese kids have towards English from a negative one to a point where they enjoy its study. At HelloWorld, I was touched by everybody's positivity and brightness, and their respect for diversity. I will continue to support the expansion of children's possibilities towards a fulfilled future.
What do you like about HelloWorld?
The fact that it is a bright and positive company.
What is next for you in the future?
I want to spread HelloWorld's name to the world in order for more children to be able to easily experience homestay programs.
Wakana KINJO
Global Coordinator
Background
Born and raised in Ginowan, Okinawa. I spent my childhood up until high school in my hometown and then moved to Osaka when I entered Kansai Gaidai University to pursue my interest in languages. In 2019 during my sophomore year, I studied abroad in New Zealand for 6 months. I first came across HelloWorld as a remote intern through a friend of mine around September 2022 where I became close with its unique members: in love with the at-home atmosphere even during busy times, I then joined as an official member when I got back to Okinawa after graduating.
What do you like about HelloWorld?
HelloWorld's members!
What is next for you in the future?
To improve operations and once again challenge myself by taking on HelloWorld's Sales!
Eri YOSHIDA
Coordinator
Background
I am an Okinawan through and through! Two years into my work life, I participated in the World Uchinanchu Festival and was shocked to learn of fellows Okinawans living all around the world, so I decided to quit my job and set off on a trip to meet them! I wanted to expand my circle of international friends while doing homestays. "See you again somewhere around the world!": after saying goodbye to my new friends and going back home, I was once again shocked when I stumbled upon HelloWorld's mission of "making it normal to have friends from every country in the world" and I decided to join in order to become a bridge with the world!
What do you like about HelloWorld?
The fact that everyone shines brightly!
What is next for you in the future?
I want to expand HelloWorld's circle of friends to many people around the world!
Shogo HIGA
Coordinator
Background
Born and raised in Nakagusuku, Okinawa. I studied Education at Hokkaido University of Education and acquired a qualification for teaching in elementary schools. I have been interested in the combined power of travel, education and international exchange since my days in New Zealand, where I spent one year as an exchange student and met many different cultures. I originally worked in travel agency on educational travel and on projects in a local board of education: this experience spurred a strong determination to shift my focus onto actual schools that in the end led me to join HelloWorld. While stressing the uniqueness of Okinawa where many cultures come together, I want to expand the circle of international exchange to the whole world.
What do you like about HelloWorld?
All the Host Families are so kind!
What is next for you in the future?
To make friends around the world and to go to Brazil to watch a soccer game!
Giulia VERZINI
Coordinator
Background
Born and raised in Italy, I have been passionate about foreign languages and culture since a child. I studied Japanese at Ca’ Foscari University of Venice and challenged myself with many different projects to figure out my path. After living in Japan for one year to finish my master’s degree while working in a Japanese NPO, I realized I wanted to find a job in Japan where I could constantly grow and challenge myself. I have joined HelloWorld because here I can achieve that, and because through our work I believe we can leave a positive impact in society.
What do you like about HelloWorld?
The passion of all members!
What is next for you in the future?
Since I’ve always focused on creative roles, I want to improve my understanding of how to contribute to a sustainable business.
Shingo OKUBO
Corporate Chef, Strategies Advisor
Background
Since the age of 9 when I had the chance to go on exchange stays by myself within Japan, I have lived in many countries and towns, travelling around the world. My life work, my passion, is conducting research on food and cooking. After intense studies in Berkeley and Paris, cities rich in food culture, at HelloWorld I am now offering support for business strategies and events from the perspective of a "food lawyer", as I like to call myself. My specialty is Californian cuisine, making the best use of good ingredients. In my professional career, I have worked for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan and the University of Yangon in the Republic of the Union of Myanmar (as a visiting associate professor) before becoming a lawyer and working at international law firms in Paris. Currently, I am an intellectual property lawyer and patent attorney with a passion for technology and life sciences, aiming to support entrepreneurs in new challenges.
What do you like about HelloWorld?
The fact that we don't run away even from difficult challenges.
What is next for you in the future?
I want to deliver opportunities for diverse experiences on a wider scale.
Rika TAKAGI
Coordinator
Background
Born and raised in Fukushima. After the Great East Japan Earthquake and the nuclear power plant accident I experienced as a child, I became interested in human connections. Since high schools, I visited a total of 16 countries and after graduating I spent 3 years in Germany to further learn about human connections and community development. With the goal of realizing a colorful society full of each other's uniqueness, I am currently studying economics online at Keio University while exploring new ways to connect with the world through HelloWorld!
What do you like about HelloWorld?
The fact that everyone is great. The fact that I can wholeheartedly say that I'm making society better.
What is next for you in the future?
This year I am leaving again for overseas, so I look forward to coming into contact with social issues on a global scale! While also polishing my English, I want to become a global citizen that is able to think of the world as a whole!
Miyu TERUYA
Coordinator
Background
Born and raised in Okinawa. I studied childcare and music, and in my previous job I worked as a nursery school teacher.
What do you like about HelloWorld?
The fact that everybody is kind.
What is next for you in the future?
I want to be able to type faster.
Ana WARIGODA
Intern
Background
I was born and raised in Brazil. Since I was little, I have enjoyed studying new languages and I have learned to speak English and Japanese. In Brazil, I graduated from the University of São Paulo with a degree in History after experiencing study abroad at the University of Tsukuba and the University of the Ryukyus. Currently I am conducting research on the history and literature of immigrants in Okinawa for an MBA at the University of the Ryukyus. I participated in HelloWorld's Rogaining programs when I was an exchange student, and I was impressed by the determination of its members in creating opportunities for multicultural communication.
What do you like about HelloWorld?
I like that our Team and our Community are rich in diversity!
What is next for you in the future?
I want to meet people from all over the world and further deepen my understanding of different cultures!
Fariha MAMUD
Coordinator
Background
I am from Rajshahi, Bangladesh. I did my Bachelor's in Computer Science and Engineering in my country. I worked as a Software Engineer for 1 year in a company under the ICT division of Bangladesh. Currently, I am doing my Masters in Electrical Energy and Control Systems at the University of the Ryukyus with a MEXT scholarship. I always liked HelloWorld's positive energy and their mission of helping students learn English in a fun way and introducing them to different cultures, so I also wanted to be a part of their journey and contribute as much as I could.
What do you like about HelloWorld?
The positive vibe, their encouragement while doing the tasks and interacting with Japanese students and the Host Families.
What is next for you in the future?
For my personal growth i want to be flexible and more confident in public speaking. I want to have more energy and be able to connect more with the crowd.
