Laetitia Da Costa (Class of 2027 | Product Manager, Japan Experience)

– First, could you tell us about your background and your current work?

I am originally from France, but I have lived in Japan for over 15 years. Currently, I work as a product manager at a travel agency. At the same time, I am involved in a public-private partnership project as a producer for “Cool Japan,” an initiative to promote Japan’s soft power overseas. I also work as a freelance advisor, supporting local governments and regional tourism associations in creating travel content and promoting their regions.
In my work, I am always conscious of acting as a “bridge” between Europe (particularly the Western market) and Japan. I feel this connects deeply with the purpose and spirit of this scholarship.

– What triggered you to enroll at Shizenkan?

My academic background is originally in literature and the arts, so I did not hold a business degree. While working in the corporate world, I considered getting an MBA to upgrade my skills, but I wasn’t entirely sure if that was what I truly wanted.
That was when I learned about Shizenkan through an acquaintance. I was strongly drawn to the fact that it isn’t just a business school; it integrates the liberal arts and focuses on cultivating “whole-person management leaders,” which includes contemplating one’s way of being as a human and one’s relationship with society. My intuition told me, “This is the school where I need to go,” and I decided to apply.

– It has been about three months since you enrolled. How do you feel about the learning experience so far?

It has been incredibly fulfilling. The pace of the classes is fast and the assignments are tough, but I can feel myself growing every week.
What has left a particular impression on me is that the curriculum isn’t just about cramming knowledge; all the subjects are organically connected and designed with clear intent. I feel the phrase “Transformative education” describes it perfectly.

Also, the diversity of my classmates is wonderful. We have different nationalities and backgrounds, but there is a culture at Shizenkan of respecting and teaching one another. There are many Japanese students in the English class as well, and I see a very positive chemical reaction occurring across nationalities and sectors.

– Are there any specific classes that have stood out to you?

The course “What is a Company for?” led by President Tomoyoshi Noda. This class fundamentally questions our existing ideas about business. It was an intellectual and emotional rollercoaster. It was a deeply thought-provoking course that served as a catalyst for significantly shifting my perspective.

– Is it difficult to balance work and your studies?

To be honest, time management is the biggest challenge. Between a full-time job, activities outside of work, and my MBA studies, my days are extremely busy. However, I believe that this kind of management ability is an essential skill for a leader, so I view this struggle as part of the learning process.

– What kind of future do you envision after your studies at Shizenkan?

The tourism industry is currently at a major turning point. Facing issues such as overtourism, there is a demand for a “Regenerative” approach rather than conventional models.
Through my studies at Shizenkan, I want to construct a sustainable, new tourism business model that values culture and human connection, rather than just arranging logistics. My goal is to give this vision a concrete form by the time I complete the program and implement it in society.

– Finally, do you have a message for those considering applying to Shizenkan?

Shizenkan is a place I want “future-oriented” people to come to. It is the optimal environment for those who don’t just want to learn business skills, but who want to create social impact and spark innovation.
The experience here has the power to change you. If you are ready to be inspired and to transform yourself, please take on the challenge.
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(Interview conducted on November 25, 2025)