Midori Igarashi, a Japanese professional married to Alexis Joy Bongo-Igarashi, a Filipina, exemplifies a unique blend of cultural diversity, professional excellence, and family dedication in his role at Aderans Philippines Inc.
His journey from the Polynesian Cultural Center (PCC) to his current position as Accounting and Administrative Manager reflects a trajectory of hard work, adaptability, and commitment to both personal and professional growth.
Table of Contents
- Transformative Professional Experiences
- Influence of Education at BYU-H
- Lessons in Dedication and Perseverance from PCC
- Rooting Professional Approach in Gospel Principles
- Balancing Career and Family Life
- Overcoming Professional Challenges
- Motivating the Team and Ensuring Quality
- Passion for Cultural Traditions and Professional Learning
- Navigating Cultural Dynamics in Family Life
- Future Aspirations and Support for Others
- A Testament to Remarkable Character and Commitment
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Transformative Professional Experiences
Reflecting on his diverse experiences, Igarashi acknowledges their transformative impact on shaping his professional ethos. “Being professional is not just doing the task,” he notes. I’ve learned to know what is asked for in the jobs and how to adjust myself for them.”
Influence of Education at BYU-H
His alma mater, Brigham Young University-Hawaii (BYU-H), shaped his approach to professional challenges. “My education in BYU-H has influenced me to think by myself,” he shares. “For improvement of the operation, productivity, cost-cutting… we are expected to find solutions or countermeasures ourselves.”
Lessons in Dedication and Perseverance from PCC
Igarashi’s tenure at the PCC instilled a sense of dedication and perseverance. “I needed to support myself alone,” he recalls. That helped me to be hardworking, so I could support my family.”
Rooting Professional Approach in Gospel Principles
Managing multiple sections at Aderans Philippines Inc. demands considerable effort, but Igarashi’s approach is rooted in Gospel principles. “I always remind myself that I represent The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints,” he affirms.
Balancing Career and Family Life
Balancing career and family life presents its own set of challenges, especially in a demanding work environment. “I ensure my family matters don’t affect my work unless it’s essential or an emergency,” he states. “I do not bring company matters or work matters home so that I can focus on my kids and my wife.”
Overcoming Professional Challenges
Encountering challenging projects is not uncommon in Igarashi’s professional journey. “When I started working in the accounting department… I had zero background in accounting, but I needed to resolve them,” he recounts. Through determination and effort, he overcame these obstacles.
Motivating the Team and Ensuring Quality
Motivating his team is essential to maintaining high-quality work standards. “I motivate my subordinates by praising and thanking them,” he explains. “After a few months, the defective rate went down… and I motivate myself by helping them and seeing the changes.”
Passion for Cultural Traditions and Professional Learning
His passion for Hawaiian-Japanese fusion and cultural traditions, such as fire knife dancing, parallels his dedication to his professional endeavors. “For my job, I study and learn because I want to provide well for my family,” he shares.
Navigating Cultural Dynamics in Family Life
Navigating the cultural dynamics of a Filipino-Japanese family requires balance and understanding. “In Filipino culture, family is the top priority,” he acknowledges. “But since I have a responsibility to help my staff finish their job, I won’t be absent.”
Future Aspirations and Support for Others
Looking ahead, Igarashi aspires to continue his career development while supporting those in need. “I want to develop my career not only for my family but for the people in need,” he affirms. “I want to ensure my family is provided well and then provide support for others.”
A Testament to Remarkable Character and Commitment
Midori Igarashi’s journey encapsulates the harmonious integration of diverse cultural backgrounds, professional excellence, and unwavering dedication to family—a testament to his remarkable character and commitment to making a difference in both his professional and personal spheres.
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