JET Programme Series: Sh-Himi-ing Into a New Chapter - Stephanie Lee
2025/9/23
“Courage need not be remembered, for it is never forgotten.”
– The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild
My name is Stephanie Lee, and I’m about to take the biggest leap of my life, from the islands of Trinidad and Tobago to the seaside town of Himi in Toyama Prefecture.
Like many of us who grew up on Japanese media, my love for Japan started with video games, anime, and manga. I was completely enchanted by the worlds I saw on screen, whether it was Studio Ghibli’s whimsical forests, the unsettling brilliance of Junji Ito’s horror, or the immersive adventures of Link. As I got older, that surface-level interest deepened into genuine admiration for Japanese culture, language, and values. Being able to now experience them firsthand through the JET Programme feels like unlocking a new level of life.
I graduated from the University of the West Indies, St. Augustine with a BSc in Banking and Finance, and while my degree may suggest a future filled with office desks and suits, I knew I wanted to chase adventure before settling down. The JET Programme is giving me the unique opportunity to immerse myself in daily life in Japan while sharing my vibrant Caribbean culture, a beautiful exchange I feel honored to be part of.
My interests outside of academics include bodybuilding, Brazilian jiu jitsu, video games, and reading, and I’m definitely planning to bring that same passion with me to Japan. I’ve also worked in customer service, and love interacting with new people and learning from different personalities. I’m excited to connect with my students and community through genuine conversation, shared laughter, and curiosity.
Himi feels like the perfect place to start this journey. Known for its fresh yellowtail, mouthwatering sushi, and stunning views of the Tateyama Mountain Range, it offers a peaceful change of pace. While I’m a bit nervous about the rural setting and language barrier, I’m excited to embrace the quiet charm of countryside life. Winters may be tough, but I believe real growth comes from change, and with an open mind (and a love for sushi), I’m ready to dive into daily life and discover the beauty of small-town Japan.
Coming from a place as culturally rich as Trinidad and Tobago, I’m excited to share the beauty of my home: our food, music, natural beauty, and Carnival spirit. I hope to bring the warmth of our people to my new community and learn just as much from them in return.
To my amazing family (and my cat, Zen), thank you for your constant support. I know we’ll miss each other deeply, but this is the beginning of something beautiful. And to the Embassy of Japan, thank you sincerely for giving me this opportunity to grow, connect, and represent my country.
JET Programme Series: Sh-Himi-ing Into a New Chapter - Stephanie Lee (Japan Embassy's Facebook)
JET Programme Series Reports
– The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild
My name is Stephanie Lee, and I’m about to take the biggest leap of my life, from the islands of Trinidad and Tobago to the seaside town of Himi in Toyama Prefecture.
Like many of us who grew up on Japanese media, my love for Japan started with video games, anime, and manga. I was completely enchanted by the worlds I saw on screen, whether it was Studio Ghibli’s whimsical forests, the unsettling brilliance of Junji Ito’s horror, or the immersive adventures of Link. As I got older, that surface-level interest deepened into genuine admiration for Japanese culture, language, and values. Being able to now experience them firsthand through the JET Programme feels like unlocking a new level of life.
I graduated from the University of the West Indies, St. Augustine with a BSc in Banking and Finance, and while my degree may suggest a future filled with office desks and suits, I knew I wanted to chase adventure before settling down. The JET Programme is giving me the unique opportunity to immerse myself in daily life in Japan while sharing my vibrant Caribbean culture, a beautiful exchange I feel honored to be part of.
My interests outside of academics include bodybuilding, Brazilian jiu jitsu, video games, and reading, and I’m definitely planning to bring that same passion with me to Japan. I’ve also worked in customer service, and love interacting with new people and learning from different personalities. I’m excited to connect with my students and community through genuine conversation, shared laughter, and curiosity.
Himi feels like the perfect place to start this journey. Known for its fresh yellowtail, mouthwatering sushi, and stunning views of the Tateyama Mountain Range, it offers a peaceful change of pace. While I’m a bit nervous about the rural setting and language barrier, I’m excited to embrace the quiet charm of countryside life. Winters may be tough, but I believe real growth comes from change, and with an open mind (and a love for sushi), I’m ready to dive into daily life and discover the beauty of small-town Japan.
Coming from a place as culturally rich as Trinidad and Tobago, I’m excited to share the beauty of my home: our food, music, natural beauty, and Carnival spirit. I hope to bring the warmth of our people to my new community and learn just as much from them in return.
To my amazing family (and my cat, Zen), thank you for your constant support. I know we’ll miss each other deeply, but this is the beginning of something beautiful. And to the Embassy of Japan, thank you sincerely for giving me this opportunity to grow, connect, and represent my country.
JET Programme Series: Sh-Himi-ing Into a New Chapter - Stephanie Lee (Japan Embassy's Facebook)
JET Programme Series Reports