Japan, known for its deeply ingrained corporate hierarchy and gender stereotypes, is witnessing a gradual but notable shift as women like Shoko Saeki emerge as influential figures. Shoko Saeki, CEO of DUOLOGY, through her innovative leadership and commitment, is breaking barriers in the business realm. With a background rooted in a diverse educational journey and a profound family influence, Saeki embodies resilience and vision in her career. Born in Australia, Saeki's upbringing was shaped by her mother's academic influence as a university professor and her father's entrepreneurial spirit. However, it was her grandmother's pioneering spirit that left an indelible mark - attending a prestigious liberal arts university in Japan during a time when higher education for women was uncommon.

Educated at a Catholic girls' school renowned for nurturing independent thinking, Saeki's academic pursuits led her to study theology at prominent institutions like the University of Exeter, the Woolf Institute at Cambridge, and King's College London. In her thirties, faced with personal and professional challenges, including navigating academia and starting a business amidst global uncertainties like the pandemic, Saeki drew strength from her diverse experiences. Her entrepreneurial journey with DUOLOGY reflects her commitment to innovation and inclusivity in business practices. DUOLOGY, under Saeki's leadership, has carved a niche by advocating for sustainable business models and empowering women in leadership roles within the organization. Today, Shoko Saeki stands as a beacon of change, inspiring future generations of women leaders in Japan and beyond. Let’s hear more from her.

What led you to establish DUOLOGY? Tell us about the underlying idea behind the venture and its key areas of expertise.

DUOLOGY was established with a mission to make a positive impact, especially amidst the challenges of the pandemic. Collaborating with the British Embassy in Japan, we introduced high-quality organic vegan extra virgin olive oil from a renowned British brand to the Japanese market. Recently, we've expanded our offerings to include handmade candles and diffusers from The Isle of Skye Candles, emphasizing environmental sustainability through the use of soy as a primary material. Our venture not only celebrates the Japanese tradition of gift-giving but also symbolizes diplomatic exchange.

My involvement with the United Nations, particularly at conferences in Geneva, underscored the significance of international dialogue and the potential for academic institutions to bridge the gap between theory and real-world applications.

This experience motivated me to delve into environmental issues in the Global South, culminating in presentations like 'The Global South's Role in Environmental Policy and Collaboration with Developed Nations' at ACUNS. Inspired by these global insights, DUOLOGY has expanded its focus to Southeast Asia, aiming to foster equitable, cross-cultural business initiatives that promote harmony among humans, nature, and animals in our interconnected world.

"As CEO Of Duology, My Primary Role Is To Cultivate Partnerships With Individuals & Organizations Aligned With Our Vision"

What are the major roles and responsibilities you shoulder as the CEO of DUOLOGY? What are your key focus areas in terms of driving growth for the company?

As CEO of DUOLOGY, my primary role is to cultivate partnerships with individuals and organizations aligned with our vision. I see DUOLOGY as a platform for achieving our goals, emphasizing mutually beneficial relationships that foster growth and development. These partnerships are built on mutual understanding and shared objectives, ensuring collaborative advancement. A key aspect of my responsibilities involves integrating academic discourse and research-driven initiatives into our strategic framework. This not only enhances our operational effectiveness but also ensures that our company's growth aligns with broader societal advancements, extending our impact beyond national borders.

Throw some light on the major challenges you encounter in your current role? How do you overcome the said roadblocks?

In Asia, there is a limited awareness and demand for the long-term benefits of organic and natural products. Our goal goes beyond profit; we strive to create a system where our profits contribute positively to society and individuals. Our projects often involve managing services and products that require international communication, which presents specific challenges. Successfully expanding our business while respecting diverse cultures involves aligning perceptions on critical aspects such as time management, including deadlines and operational hours. It's crucial to prevent misunderstandings and potential dissatisfaction arising from cultural differences through clear and effective communication. Utilizing intermediaries with international education or experience in multinational environments can facilitate smoother interactions, as trust tends to be higher among people of the same nationality.

From your perspective, what do you consider the most significant accomplishments in your professional journey thus far?

In my professional journey, I consider my most significant achievements to be the meaningful relationships I've cultivated with intelligent and ethical individuals. While these may not be conventional 'wins' in the typical sense, at DUOLOGY, we place a high value on fostering an academic mindset and recognize the pivotal role of academia in advancing equality ahead of political discourse. These intellectual exchanges have greatly enhanced mutual understanding within our initiatives.

Looking ahead, while continuing to prioritize these valuable relationships, DUOLOGY's next major goal is to make a substantial societal impact on a global level. We aim to achieve this by leveraging our platform to contribute meaningfully to broader global issues.

As a business leader, how do you define success? What has been your success mantra over the years?

As a business leader, I see success as an ongoing journey, and defining it precisely remains a continuous exploration for me. However, if I were to pinpoint a measure of success, it would be the positive impact felt by individuals in their interactions with me and my company. My guiding principle over the years has been to cultivate a positive environment where people feel valued and inspired. When individuals express satisfaction such as, 'I'm glad we connected,' 'I look forward to collaborating again,' or 'This company aligns with my aspirations,' it reinforces our foundation for future endeavors. This supportive feedback not only strengthens resilience in facing challenges but also keeps me grounded and focused on continual improvement.

To aspiring women leaders and entrepreneurs:

Let us focus our efforts on nurturing peace, a remarkable innate strength within women. It is important to value the little things, show respect to others, and consistently carry ourselves with grace and confidence. Living life joyfully and with dignity can illuminate paths of hope for many. These qualities not only shape our identity but also inspire those we lead and influence as we forge ahead with innovation and leadership.

Shoko Saeki, CEO, Duology

Shoko Saeki, CEO of DUOLOGY, is reshaping Japan's corporate landscape with innovative leadership, challenging gender norms entrenched in the business realm. Her journey from an academic background shaped by her mother's influence to entrepreneurial success reflects resilience and a commitment to sustainability and inclusivity in global business practices.