PEOPLE - Shingo the volunteer

THE COVID-19 pandemic changed the way we lived. We gained new appreciation for human resilience, connection and potential.

It was this realisation that pushed Shingo Kimura out of his comfort zone to join the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) as an international volunteer to Fiji.

The 29-year-old is now engaged with the Ministry of Fisheries office in Lautoka, supporting the Lautoka Fishermen Cooperative Ltd (LFCL) based at Lautoka Wharf.

Mr Kimura said in his role, he managed financial records, negotiated with buyers and addressed operational needs to ensure sustainable profits.

Originally from Tokyo, Japan, Mr Kimura said he started his career at a marketing company after graduating from university.

“Although marketing wasn’t my academic major, I pursued this opportunity because the role intrigued me and aligned with my interests.”

He specialised in food marketing and managed accounts for food companies and supermarkets, designing consumer surveys and sales strategies.

“The end of the COVID-19 pandemic triggered my desire to work internationally. I recognised my youth and energy as ideal for pursuing global opportunities.

“This conviction, and many other reasons, led me to join JICA as a volunteer and use my skills to help communities in Fiji.

“My role as a marketing adviser was deeply fulfilling. Yet I was equally inspired by the prospect of working abroad. Recognising that marketing expertise is vital for developing countries, particularly in strengthening local markets, I was driven to apply my skills globally.”

He finds his Fiji role especially fulfilling. The cooperative he works with has grown from strength to strength.

Recently, the cooperative began supplying fish to a restaurant, a milestone that has fostered economic growth.

“I am confident these efforts will enhance the cooperative’s sustainability,” he said.

“The cooperative has significant potential. I believe they will be the leading fishermen’s cooperative in the Pacific Islands in the future.”

However, his journey in Fiji isn’t all serious work.

Mr Kimura said Fiji has opened his eyes to the richness of Fijian culture, allowing him to broaden his horizons by discovering new perspectives.

He described this as “profoundly meaningful”.

“Fiji’s vibrant culture, which is distinct from Japan’s, provides an ideal setting. As a JICA volunteer, my work in Fiji is enriched with fresh insights, bringing deep fulfillment to work.”

“From kava ceremonies and traditional music to local crops and the island’s natural beauty, every aspect of Fiji inspires gratitude and excitement, continually deepening my appreciation for this unique experience.”

Mr Kimura’s life has not always been without its challenges. He said relocating abroad required significant sacrifices, which included resigning from his job and leaving his family and familiar comforts, such as Japanese cuisine, behind.

“Though I occasionally miss my family, frequent communication through texts and calls bridge the distance. Moreover, I eagerly await their visit to Fiji this year.

“My ultimate aspiration is to explore the world, embracing diverse experiences that broaden my perspective.

“I envision travelling to remote destinations where I can see unbelievable landscapes, scuba diving to discover unique marine life, and pursuing further education to deepen my knowledge.

“In Fiji, I am continually enriched by the vibrant culture and traditional practices, which inspire me. This enrichment, rooted in my JICA volunteer work, fuels my global ambitions and commitment to fostering cross-cultural understanding.”

Mr Kimura also acknowledged that his journey as a JICA volunteer in Fiji was one of significant importance as it empowered vibrant communities and enabled meaningful impact.

“To those eager to broaden their horizons, take the first step with courage for unparalleled rewards.”