JET Programme Series: Trini Samurai in Hagi - Shantal Deokie

I'm currently a JET participant, and i am extremely proud to be one too. As the name says, it's an exchange and teaching program, whereby we, the JETs, exchange our cultures, values, education etc. with the host country (Japan) and by extension whoever's willing to learn.
 

I am placed in the beautiful countryside of Hagi, Yamaguchi, more so, I live in the mountains of Tamagawa, Hagi. The blue sea waters remind me of the many visits to Toco and the mountains remind me of the multiple trips to Maracas Bay.
 

I feel as though I'm home...
 

Hagi is a City which lies upon a rich, historical bed from years of turmoil. The city was made up of different clans and militia who both contributed immensely to Hagi's history.
 

The Mori clan was a Japanese Samurai clan who at the beginning of the Edo period (1603-1868) constructed Hagi Castle in 1608.
 

As a result of the Meiji Restoration, these said Samurais contributed to lending to Hagi's political and social structure change. It is during this revolution that Japan quickly industrialised and adapted to Western ideas, methods and products.
 

I was most elated when I found out that I could portray a Mori clan Samurai for a festival parade. Under the wear, I felt proud to know that I could be a part of one of the biggest Autumn festivals in Hagi, proud to portray a samurai who fought for the pride of the place I currently live in, yet sad to know the trials these persons would have undergone to make what Hagi is today; a peaceful, historical, beautiful, diverse, heart-warning, welcoming, serene place.
 

Not only am I learning about the Japanese culture, but they too are learning from mine. It was my honour to celebrate Diwali in my little, humble home in the evergreens. I cooked some "Trini food" and was happy to share with my friends not only from Japan but also the United States and England. I improvised my deeyas for some little dessert bowls and candles and we each lit a few out on my lawn.
 

For English camp, I taught the students how to make curried chicken and sada roti. Also, I introduced the famous Berties pepper sauce to some adults at an English class and after tasting it and screaming, "Fire!" they still couldn't stop eating. I told them "That's Trinidad for you. Try it once and you'll always want more!"
 

The Japan Exchange and Teaching Programme isn't just about exchanging culture with Japan, it's exchanging / sharing your culture with the world; with whomever you come into contact with. It's bringing your country to Japan and most willingly sharing it with those who may never get the opportunity to visit sweet T&T.

Shantal Deokie
JET (Japanese Exchange & Teaching) Program Assistant Langauge Teacher
Hagi City, Yamaguchi Prefecture, JAPAN


JET Series: Trini Samurai in Hagi (Japanese Embassy's Facebook) 


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