AAI Graduate Transforming Lives and Inspiring Change
Shafiq, an AAI graduate from Uganda, embarked on a remarkable journey with Ashinaga, where his dreams transformed into reality. At the age of 20, Shafiq moved to Japan, where he completed his undergraduate degree in Political Sciences from Kwansei Gakuin University.
Reflecting on his journey, Shafiq cherishes the multitude of friendships he made through Ashinaga. He remarks, “The diverse community allowed me to interact with individuals from various backgrounds, fostering my understanding of different cultures and providing a network of support that would prove vital in my future endeavors.” Ashinaga proved to be more than just an academic institution—it was a platform for personal growth and learning from people from all walks of life.
Among the valuable lessons Shafiq learned during his time with Ashinaga was the art of networking and forging meaningful connections. He shares, “Through activities like Tsudoi, I developed the essential skills to interact with individuals from diverse backgrounds. These experiences played a pivotal role in my ability to connect with people and establish relationships that would later shape my career.”
The success of Shafiq’s job-hunting journey is a testament to the invaluable support and training he received from Ashinaga. He expresses his gratitude: “A friend I met at university, who is also an Ashinaga alumnus, helped me find job opportunities and accompanied me to job fairs. Together, we seized an opportunity to interview with a company from Sendai, resulting in an invitation to join their international department.” Shafi works as an international Sales representative at ARCA in Sendai, Japan. He is leading global sales of the company’s intelligent toilets, which requires him to hone his communication, negotiation, and planning skills.
However, Shafiq’s journey extended beyond academic and career achievements. It encompassed a mission to make a difference in his home country. With determination in his voice, he shares, “My goal is to work towards improving sanitation in Nansana and utilizing recycled waste for agriculture. My experience and exposure in Japan to innovative practices have equipped me with the knowledge and determination to drive positive change.”
Returning home after seven years, Shafiq felt an overwhelming sense of pride and accomplishment. He reflects on his transformation: “I acknowledge that my time in Japan has transformed me profoundly, shaping the way I approach work, social interactions, and life’s challenges.” Shafiq recognizes that this transformation would not have been possible without the unwavering support of Ashinaga.
Shafiq expresses his heartfelt gratitude and motivation: “Amid challenges and uncertainties, Ashinaga stood by my side, providing invaluable support and guidance every step of the way. Their unwavering commitment to empowering dreams and fostering cross-cultural understanding motivated me to push through and transform my aspirations into reality.”
Ashinaga’s commitment to empowering dreams and fostering cross-cultural understanding has played a pivotal role in shaping the lives of countless international students, including Shafiq. Through Ashinaga’s endeavors, Shafiq’s extraordinary journey became possible, and he emphasizes, “Thank you, Ashinaga, for being a constant source of support and inspiration along the way.”
Shafiq’s story is just one of many that exemplify the transformative power of Ashinaga. It is a tale of perseverance, resilience, and the indomitable human spirit, destined to inspire and motivate countless others to pursue their dreams positively impactt in the world.
