Catherine’s Monthly Wrap Up -November 2024

Reflecting on November and Preparing for 2025

As we near the end of the year, it's natural to reflect on what has been accomplished, what seeds for the future have been sown, and look ahead to the possibilities of the coming year. November has been a month of growth, meaningful connections, impactful contributions, and sowing those seeds, setting the stage for an exciting 2025. This time of year also brings seasonal beauty to Japan : her vibrant fall foliage blanketing the cities and countryside serves as a stunning reminder of the power of transformation and renewal. These natural cycles inspire us to embrace change and imagine what’s next.

For 2025, I’m shaping my focus around the themes of imagination, reimagination, and rejuvenation. These themes resonate deeply as I consider new opportunities, explore creative ideas, and refresh my perspectives on both personal and professional fronts. My word of the year, a practice that has guided me in recent years, will also provide a lens through which to navigate and achieve these goals.

As the holidays approach, I find myself reflecting on Japan’s unique traditions during this season, from the joy of seasonal illuminations to the peaceful anticipation of New Year’s celebrations. These traditions highlight the importance of community and gratitude which are sentiments that align with my personal and professional values.

This year-end reflection has also allowed me to appreciate the incredible experiences November brought, which I am excited to share in detail in my end of month blog below.

1. Master of Ceremonies at the JNZBC Welcome Party in Kurashiki

This November, I had the privilege of serving as the MC at the welcome party for the 50th session of the Japan New Zealand Business Council (JNZBC) conference, held in Kurashiki. The event celebrated not only the strong business ties between Japan and New Zealand but also the 50th anniversary of the sister city relationship between Christchurch and Kurashiki. It was an honor to guide the evening’s program, which served as a warm and vibrant start to this milestone gathering. Being part of this cultural and professional exchange was a deeply rewarding experience. My notes on the role as an MC are here.

2. Advocating for Equity at LLAN's 9th Annual Gala

In mid-November, I attended the 9th Annual Equity Gala organized by the Lawyers for LGBT & Allies Network (LLAN) in Tokyo. As the closing speaker for this significant event, I shared thoughts on the ongoing journey towards equity and inclusion in the legal profession. The atmosphere of the evening was uplifting, filled with inspiring stories and a sense of solidarity among attendees. This opportunity to contribute to the dialogue on diversity and allyship reaffirmed my commitment to creating an inclusive legal community. More photos and my reflections here.

3. Celebrating #LoveYourLawyerDay

November also brought the lighthearted yet meaningful celebration of LoveYourLawyerDay. It was a chance to reflect on the vital contributions lawyers make to society and to celebrate the dedication, expertise, and resilience of legal professionals. This day offered a moment to pause and appreciate the impact lawyers have in shaping fair and just outcomes, both in everyday practice and on a larger scale. Want to know more? See the post here.

4. Experiencing the Thrill of WRC at Toyota Stadium

This November, I had the chance to attend the WRC (World Rally Championship) at Toyota Stadium, an exhilarating experience that gave me a whole new appreciation for the term "petrol heads." The roar of engines, the precision of the drivers, and the electrifying atmosphere made it a truly unforgettable event.

What stood out most was seeing 4 or 5 incredible women competing as drivers or co-drivers. It was inspiring to witness their talent and determination in a field often dominated by men. Their presence was a testament to how barriers are being broken and the motorsport world is becoming more inclusive.

The WRC wasn’t just about the competition; it was a celebration of skill, speed, and passion, leaving me with newfound admiration for the world of rally racing.

5. Thought Leadership on CFOs and Boardroom Dynamics

This month, I wrote four articles for Critical Eye focusing on how CFOs can enhance leadership in the boardroom. These pieces explore the strategic role CFOs play in fostering effective governance, driving organizational vision, and navigating complex challenges. Sharing these insights was an engaging way to highlight the intersection of finance and leadership while contributing valuable perspectives to boardroom discussions. Let me include the link to the PDF of all the 4 articles in one for you to explore further.

6. Joining the Conversation on Women on Boards

This month, I also engaged with an important discussion sparked by a Japan Times article on women in board roles. In my LinkedIn post, I highlighted the challenges and opportunities for early and mid-career women aiming to break through into leadership positions. The article emphasized how diversity in corporate governance is evolving in Japan, and I shared my perspective on how organizations can foster environments that support and empower women to step into these roles.

Conversations like these are vital for driving change. They remind us that achieving gender diversity on boards isn’t just about hitting quotas; it’s about recognizing and leveraging diverse talents for better decision-making and stronger organizational outcomes. Engaging with this topic was an opportunity to contribute to the ongoing dialogue about diversity and inclusion in Japan’s corporate world.

7. Insights on Leadership x Board Readiness: A Special Podcast Episode

In addition to live events, I recorded two podcast episodes this month. The first was for my own podcast, Lawyer on Air, where I continue to spotlight inspiring journeys and careers in the legal profession in Japan.

Additionally, I had the honor of being featured in the latest episode of the "Lawyer on Air" podcast, where I discussed my journey to becoming a successful board member in Japanese corporations. In this special session, guest host Akiyo Inoko Hewett, an attorney based in Atlanta, Georgia, turned the mic around and interviewed me about the steps and timelines for board readiness, offering practical advice for aspiring board members.

This conversation provided an opportunity to share insights on leadership and governance, aiming to inspire and guide others in their professional development. Engaging in this dialogue was a fulfilling experience, allowing me to reflect on my own path and contribute to the broader discourse on board success.

8. Culinary Journeys and Cultural Fusion: A Conversation with Lindsay Gray

The second podcast was for Jandals in Japan, where I shared reflections on the unique connections and opportunities between Japan and New Zealand. Podcasting remains a cherished platform for me to explore important topics and connect with a wider audience.

I co-hosted the latest episode with Jayne Nakata featuring an insightful conversation with Lindsay Gray, the Executive Chef at the Tokyo American Club. Lindsay shared his culinary journey from New Zealand to Japan, discussing his initial challenges with traditional Japanese dishes and his approach to incorporating New Zealand ingredients into his menus. He also offered valuable advice for aspiring chefs aiming to work in Japan.

This episode delved into the fusion of Kiwi and Japanese culinary traditions, highlighting the cultural exchange that enriches the dining experiences at the Tokyo American Club. Co-hosting this episode was a delightful experience, providing a platform to explore the intersections of food, culture, and professional growth.

9. Celebrating Connections: "Mug Shots" with Lawyer on Air Guests

One of the highlights of this month was the intimate catch-ups I had with past guests from my Lawyer on Air podcast. Each of them received their special podcast mugs, and I couldn’t resist taking what I like to call their “mug shots” (pun fully intended!).

These moments are more than just exchanges of mugs because they become celebrations of the connections we’ve built through meaningful conversations and shared experiences. It’s always a joy to reconnect, hear updates on their journeys, and see how the podcast continues to resonate with them. Sharing these "mug shots" is my way of celebrating the growing Lawyer on Air community and the incredible people who make it so special.

So that’s it!

November has been a month filled with diverse and meaningful activities. From professional contributions to cultural exchanges, thought leadership, and creative projects, each experience has enriched my journey in the legal and business world. I’m grateful for these opportunities to connect, advocate, and inspire, and I look forward to carrying this momentum into the months ahead.

Closing thoughts … Christmas in Japan: A Unique Festive Blend

The holiday season in Japan is marked by unique traditions, from enchanting illuminations to the serene anticipation of the New Year. These customs underscore the importance of community and gratitude, aligning seamlessly with my values and aspirations.

When I first arrived in Japan two decades ago, 🎄Christmas trees 🎄were a rare sight. Fast forward to today, and it’s uplifting to see their dazzling presence everywhere! They adorn shops, supermarkets, and office foyers, as well as brightening streets and parks with twinkling light displays and I collected a few from around the town in this blog. Tokyo transforms into a winter wonderland, where Christmas cheer feels as much a celebration of beauty and joy as it does a nod to global traditions.

One delightful quirk of Christmas in Japan is the love affair with KFC. Yes, Colonel Sanders is practically synonymous with Christmas here! The tradition took root somewhere between the challenge of fitting a traditional turkey into Japan’s famously small ovens and the appeal of KFC marketing in the 1970s. These days, families line up for fried chicken feasts, and you might even spot the Colonel himself dressed as Santa outside a shop (photo: KFC)

But as quickly as Christmas arrives, it vanishes. By the morning of December 26th, all signs of the holiday are whisked away as Japan shifts gears to prepare for New Year’s, the country’s most important celebration. The meticulous cleaning, decorating with pine and bamboo, and preparing festive foods are all part of welcoming the new year with a fresh start.

Christmas in Japan may not include the same traditions I grew up with, but it’s a wonderful blend of global influences and local charm that makes this season uniquely special.

Wishing everyone a joyous holiday season and a rejuvenating start to 2025.

See you next month!

Catherine