director
Yukiko Hirano
After working as a supervisor in the travel and events department of a major Japanese airline in London, I launched J Culture Sydney in 2019 in Sydney Australia, where I am organizing the Japanese themed exhibition "JAPAN EXPO", traditional Japanese cultural concerts and events at the Sydney Opera House, Town hall, theatres and other venues.
General Manager/IT Manager
Mari Iwatsuki
After graduating from Chiba University's Faculty of Engineering, I have worked at a major Japanese company as a software quality assurance team leader for workstation, app, and device system integration, customer research, process benchmarking, strategy staff, and new business startup.
I organize overall event coordination, marketing and IT management at J Culture.
Producer/Art Director
Loeby lovato
For over 30 years, I've worked in the US and Australia as an event producer, media creator, art director and ops technician. I currently work for the City of Sydney, Australia, as a supervisor for Sydney's major events such as the New Year's Fireworks, the VIVID Light Festival, the Easter Show, local exhibitions and more, and also a business partner of J Culture.
Branding/Digital Marketer
Rei Shimada
After working for several years in sales and marketing at a major Japanese company in Japan, I moved to Sydney, Australia and experienced several local jobs and activities bridging Australia and Japan while working on creating branding , digital marketing and coordinating for J CULTURE SYDNEY.
JAPAN EXPO Creative Team
Japanese brands to the world
Tokyo Office Director
Takashi Yokoyama
Former diplomat at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan.
I've worked as a foreign service officer in eight countries, including as Counsellor for Japanese Culture at the British Embassy and the Australian Embassy, and the Consulates General in Brazil, Peru, and Porto Alegre. After retiring in 2023, I became the director of J CULTURE SYDNEY's Tokyo office.
Marketing Director
Yoko Seo
After graduating from Faculty of Foreign Languages in Dokkyo Uni in Japan, I worked as a secretary at the National Bank of France. I received the first International Exchange Encouragement Award from Ibaraki Prefecture. I am also an author. I've worked as an interpreter for movies, FIFA, and the NBA. At Japan Expo, I coordinate relationships with stakeholders and proposes new marketing, planning, events, collaborations, etc.
Event Coordinator/Interpreter
Kimie Tomida
I have extensive experience as a bilingual Executive Assistant, working for major Japanese companies in Australia. My expertise extends to new company start-ups, where I excel in negotiating with suppliers, supporting VIPs, and coordinating events. I am passionate about providing excellent customer service infused with the Japanese spirit of “Omotenashi” and take pride in supporting stakeholders at all levels. At J Culture Sydney, I also strive to provide meticulous customer service, especially for exhibitors.
Editor, Accountant
Hannah Salisbury
After graduating from the Faculty of Economics at the University of Sydney, I worked as an auditor assistant at a major French accounting firm while also assisting with interpretation, translation and accounting work at J CULTURE SYDNEY.