JET Programme Series: 18 Schools and counting! - Samantha Samlal

Last August, when offered a placement on the Japan Exchange and Teaching Programme (JET), I decided to leave my life in Trinidad and take on the new adventure. I didn’t know what to expect but I felt confident in my decision to venture into the unknown. I am currently living and working in a tiny island named Tokunoshima. It is located in the Kagoshima prefecture just south of island Kyushu, Japan. Tokunoshima is a sporty, little paradise bursting with rich Japanese culture, the kindest people, great food and beautiful scenic sites. This island is known for bull-fighting, Habu (venomous snakes), black sugar, an annual triathlon, amazing ocean views and beaches that are perfect for star gazing. Living in Tokunoshima has definitely been a unique experience for me and it forced me out of my comfort zone. It is not the typical “Tokyo” experience that one would hope but I have opened my mind and heart to this wonderful place.
 

After arriving to Tokunoshima, I immediately settled down and made it my new home. My first week in Japan was very busy. I went from setting up bank accounts to meeting the mayor of the island and taking pictures that was featured in the local magazine. As time went on, I felt more relaxed and started to truly enjoy my time here. I participated in many events, such as, the “Dun Dun Matsuri” where we paraded the streets and did a traditional dance, dragon boat festival, calligraphy class, kimono class, English conversation classes and a jewellery making class just to name a few.
 

In my role as a Teaching Assistant, I looked for every opportunity to include my culture into my lessons. I feel fulfilled knowing that in such a short space of time, my students - from all eighteen schools - now know what is the steel-pan, Trini carnival, soca music, crab and dumping, bake and shark and so on. I even made T&T’s curried chicken which was enjoyed by my co-workers and some of my students. One of my schools was lucky enough to experience the steel-pan in person. It brought me great joy to see my teachers and students dancing to the sounds of my national instrument.
 

One of my most memorable experiences happened when I went to my prefectural orientation. I was informed that I am the first JET participant from Trinidad and Tobago to be placed in the Kagoshima Prefecture and I felt so proud to see my flag placed with that of the other countries for the very first time. It was a feeling that you have to experience to truly understand. On another occasion, I showcased Trinidad and Tobago’s culture to hundreds of ALTs and JTEs from all over the world. I felt satisfied knowing that I was able to share my culture since many people didn’t know about Trinidad and Tobago. I’ve also been lucky enough to meet the interpreter for T&T’s national Olympic team, since our local athletes will be based in Kagoshima.
 

My experience thus far has been truly remarkable and one that cannot be explained. I now have friends from all over the world, friends who truly feel like family. I am eternally grateful to the Embassy of Japan for giving me this amazing opportunity to experience such a unique culture and in exchange represent my beautiful country whole-heartedly. Until next time, Obora Daren (Thank you- Tokunoshima dialect) and Sayōnara.

Samantha Samlal
JET (Japanese Exchange & Teaching) Program Assistant Langauge Teacher
Tokunoshima, Kagoshima Prefecture, JAPAN


JET Series: 18 Schools and counting! (Japanese Embassy's Facebook) 


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