Hi Reader,
Last month, I went to Japan with my mom and sister. Our goal was to connect with our relatives and better understand the Japanese side of our story.
You see, my mom is the epitome of a Peruvian woman, but she bears her parents’ Japanese last name, Sakata. People often ask why that is.
It’s a tale of immigration, perseverance, and dedication to family.
Long story short, my great-grandfather immigrated from Japan to Peru after a tsunami devastated his city and his business. He married, built a new life, and sent money back to his family in Japan.
Two generations later, my mom was born. When she was grown, she eventually came to the States.
And here I am today, married and raising 4th generation Japanese/Peruvian/Americans.
I’m keen on teaching my kids about our heritage because the more I get to know the Japanese side of our family, the more I learn about personal values that run deep.
For instance:
In a way, learning more about my literal DNA feels like establishing a brand DNA. But that’s a topic for another time.
For now, I’m relishing in memories of walking Wakayama’s calm, red maple-lined streets with my loved ones.
Those memories serve as a waypoint for what matters most, even when times get busy and that end-of-year bustle kicks in.
We all want to know what makes us us. Whether it’s connecting with your heritage or simply reflecting on your personal values, I hope you find some space to do so as 2023 winds down.
Talk soon,
Hazel
The Right Brain
PS: Speaking of values, guess what! Drio’s applications for Women's Business Enterprise National Council and Women-Owned Small Business certifications have been approved! This means we’ll be able to connect with and support even more women-owned businesses that share our values. 🥳
Nichols Contracting |
The Collective |
Hi Reader, I’m having an excited mom moment. My teenage son Connor is going to Germany for a 10-month exchange program. No, it’s not that I want to get rid of him. I’m excited because I know how eye-opening it can be when you get out of your comfort zone like that. My mom’s side of the family is from Germany, so he’ll connect with his heritage and learn how to speak German fluently. He’ll also probably make life-changing connections. Speaking from experience, once you find your people, you...
Hi Reader, The way I see it, there are two main “types” of entrepreneurs. The Lifers: The entrepreneurs who commit to one big idea, building and refining it for years. Decades even. The Adventurers: The entrepreneurs who thrive on change, pivots, and the thrill of starting from scratch. A recent lunch with a fellow entrepreneur put that into perspective for me. We originally met in 2022 at a conference in Philadelphia - and we realized we were from the same hometown in Virginia. A few weeks...
Hi Reader, Spring has officially sprung, and so has the energy around here. March was one for the books, filled with community, creativity, and a whole lot of women-led magic. Let’s rewind and relive some of the incredible moments from this month: 🌟 Pava LaPere’s Legacy Lives On We were honored to participate in the Maryland Student Venture Showcase hosted by UpSurge Baltimore, where 39 student-founded ventures were celebrated for their bold ideas. Nine winners—including our very own Hazel...