A Transformative Week in Austria: Reflections from the Investor Forum
I was honored to be the sole Japanese female panelist at the recent investor forum
called “World Venture Forum” held in Austria in July 2024.
The event brought together a diverse group of global investors and philanthropists,
and it was an incredible experience to be part of such a dynamic community.
One of the highlights of the forum was the opportunity to share a panel with incredible Ms Marjorie,
a member of the Clinton family, former journalist, and former US Congresswoman.
Our discussion focused on the importance of philanthropy and giving back to society.
It was inspiring to hear her perspective on the role of philanthropy in creating a more just and equitable world.
The six-day summit was filled with thought-provoking discussions,
networking opportunities, and cultural experiences.
The sense of camaraderie among the attendees was truly remarkable, and I felt as if I had joined a global family.
I am deeply grateful to the Venionaire Capital team for their exceptional organization and support.
This experience has reinforced my commitment to making a positive impact on the world.
I look forward to building upon the connections I made at the forum and continuing
to work towards a more sustainable and equitable future.
I had the privilege of sharing the stage with Ms. Marjorie, a former US Congresswoman
and renowned news anchor, at the final day of the investor forum.
Known for adopting her first child from overseas, she’s a truly inspiring figure. Meeting her in person,
I was struck by her intelligence, communication skills, and magnetic personality.
It was an honor to deliver the closing speech of the forum, standing
alongside such an extraordinary individual. Many people approached me afterward,
sharing how moved they were by my words.
I’m grateful to Berthold Baurek-Karlic and his team for organizing this incredible event.
It’s inspiring to be surrounded by individuals who are passionate about using their
resources and influence to make a positive impact on the world.
I’m truly honored to be part of such a community.
I used to think that things had improved so much for women in the workplace compared to
my mother’s generation, when women were often relegated to making tea. But then I had a reality check.
At this investors’ forum, a company CEO asked me,
“Mimi, my daughter wants to work overseas. What’s the situation like for women in Japan?”
When I assured him that things were improving, we spent the next week together
and I realized just how different our perspectives were.
In Europe, everyone – from fund managers to bank executives – treated each other as equals. In New York too,
I was often asked for my input on important matters.
I realized how accustomed I had become to being invisible in Japanese business settings.
It’s common that women are ignored in networking events or to have male executives pass you by when you are a female.
I had normalized this behavior.
While I thought Japan had closed the gender gap,
I realized that women face significant barriers.
The fact that Japan ranks 125th out of 146 countries in the gender gap index is a stark reminder.
I’ve been fortunate to work with supportive leaders, who treat everyone with respect, regardless of gender.
However, I’ve also encountered those who believe women should be seen and not heard or who use their positions to take advantage of women.
That company CEO’s daughter would certainly find it difficult to work in Japan if she came here. It seemed like he didn’t want to send his daughter to Japan.
It’s a loss for our country when talented individuals choose to go elsewhere.
Ultimately, it’s up to each of us to create the kind of society we want to live in.
We need to ask ourselves, ‘Do we want Japan to remain a place where women are often overlooked?’
On a personal note, I’m grateful for my supportive husband.
I chose him because he respects my life.
Recently, two women told me about their divorces.
One of their husbands insisted that the wife should only take care of the children and do housework.
Finally, the women decided to leave the relationship.
She said with a bright and excited expression,
“Once I finish taking care of the things I’ve been doing for him,
I’m going to get a divorce and start a new life.”
People around her have told her
she looks like a different person now.
What I want to say is that in our one and only life,
the environment we choose is our own choice and responsibility.
And those who are not chosen or those environments
that are not chosen will decline.
We have to ask ourselves,
‘Should we allow Japan to become a country that people don’t choose?’
This is also our choice.
