36 Gaikokujin Views of Japan,  Events

Japanese Perspectives on Sustainability & Wellbeing – Conference & Workshop

What can we learn from Japanese successful stories on Sustainability? How can we improve on circular economy, energy saving, innovation and corporate culture? How can we adapt our behaviors to improve personal wellbeing and strengthen our communities, at home & at work? What are the Japanese learnings on Longevity?

I was delighted to discuss these matters with a group of specialists from one of the largest utility companies in Romania – an organization that provides energy to a major share of the population and is constantly at the forefront of innovation.

The event was hosted by Yoshi Sushi & Teppanyaki, a venue fit for the immersion in the Japanese culture and, above all, its delicious cuisine! A truly recommended place to visit, warm staff and amazing Japanese food!

During the first part of the event, with the help of the special guests on my panel, we presented case studies from Japan tackling different levels: administrative, corporate, and societal. After lunch, we continued with a workshop providing a deeper cultural dive through conversation, calligraphy, and origami. At the end of the session, participants received the newly launched book, 36 Gaikokujin Perspectives of Japan, complete with signatures and personal dedications from the author.

I would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone involved in making this such a memorable event:

  • DistribuÈ›ie Oltenia, part of Evryo Group – for having the vision, being innovative and people oriented. Angelica, Roxana, Anamaria – as always, a pleasure being part of your remarkable projects!
  • Rogalski Damaschin Public Relations – the company behind the organization of the event. Miruna, Cristina – arigatou gozaimashita! 🙂
  • Yoshi Sushi & Teppanyaki – for being a great host.
  • My special guests: Șerban Georgescu (Director of Asian Studies Dept. – Universitatea Româno-Americană, founder of CSRJ – Centrul de Studii Româno-Japoneze Angela Hondru), Alex Paraschiv (founder Nihon no Sekai – Japanese language school), Alexandra Baranyi (visual artist, origami), Cristi Diaconu (calligraphy, founder and leader of Kodama Daiko, travel consultant in Japan by Myself). Your input and expertise really make a difference, you are true vectors in promoting Japanese culture in Romania, a permanent source of inspiration.

The event was part of the Sustainability Day, organized by Distribuție Oltenia. The participants were specialists dedicated to building the culture of sustainability and volunteering across the organization.

I hope the few photos below display the positive vibe we had during the event.

Small expo, photos and paintings connecting with Japan

Introducing the panel members and the main topics of the day

Why Japan? Creating the framework for a meaningful & relevant cultural immersion.

Few words from Mr. Ondrej Safar, CEO Distribuție Oltenia

A warm introduction by Angelica Răducanu, Chief Administrative Officer Distribuție Oltenia

My guests, active promoters of Japanese culture in Romania. From left to right: Alexandra Baranyi (visual artist, origami), Șerban Georgescu (Director Asian Studies Dept. – Universitatea Româno-Americană, founder Centrul de Studii Româno-Japoneze Angela Hondru), Alex Paraschiv (founder Nihon no Sekai language school), Cristi Diaconu (Calligraphy, Kodama Daiko, Japan by Myself)

Alex Paraschiv, on Japanese language and useful expressions

Cristi Diaconu, about calligraphy and Japanese writing systems

Alexandra Baranyi, teaching participants origami techniques

Personalized calligraphy practice, with Cristi Diaconu

Good vibes with Alex-Sensei, my proficient Japanese language teacher

With my daughter Anda, helping me set up the expo at the venue, happy to practice origami

Delicious Japanese food by our hosts, Yoshi Sushi & Teppanyaki. Mmm, oishii!

Creating a bit of atmosphere, with origami and paintings of two famous castles in Japan, Himeji (“the white heron”) & Matsumoto (“the crow”)

Signing books, a pleasurable activity closing the event.
I hope “36 Gaikokujin Perspectives of Japan” will build a stronger connection to this fascinating country.

Best regards and enjoy the read!

Cosmin