In the bustling world of communications and ads, everyone has a unique story waiting to be told. At K&L, our team of passionate professionals brings those stories to life. Today we’re introducing Yoko Okumura and Mika Inoue from the Communication Planning Division — where work centers around creative planning, writing, and designing for various clients.
Could you introduce yourself?
Yoko: My name is Yoko, and I’ve been a Planner and English Copywriter at K&L for about five years.
Mika: And I’m Mika, this is my third month at K&L. I work alongside Yoko as a Planner and English Copywriter.
Yoko: I’ve been in the ad business for a little while now, but let me tell you, my journey hasn’t been linear. From pursuing dance in South America to working a 9 to 5 at a Japanese company, I would say my background is pretty colorful. The role of a copywriter and planner piqued my interest because I knew that I could utilize my English skills acquired from studying abroad in the States and that I would be working with a major Japanese camera company. I’ve always been interested in cameras and photography and thought it would be a great opportunity to learn more about the business!
Mika: I come from both an American and Japanese background. Growing up in the States and later moving to Japan during middle school, I've had the privilege of immersing myself in both cultures. Before joining the K&L team, my professional path focused on translation work. I’ve always had a passion for languages and writing, and I wanted to do something that could connect my two cultures. That’s when I learned about K&L. K&L allows me to continue to refine my skills as a copywriter, and the company’s dedication to globally oriented projects perfectly aligns with my goal of connecting and contributing to both my American and Japanese backgrounds.
What’s been your most memorable project at K&L?
Yoko: Only two months after joining, I was part of a project where we had to find cinematographers from five different continents. I did some research and found a Kenyan director through Instagram, which my team agreed was a good choice, and was asked to deliver some camera gear in person
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Mika: Africa! Wow.
Yoko: Yes, but shortly after my arrival, the cinematographer ended up getting sick, and the shoot was postponed. Ultimately, he recovered, and everything was executed successfully. The entire experience was a crash course into the unpredictability of projects and the importance of being adaptable.
Mika: Mine seems much less dramatic by comparison, but in my initial weeks here, I was faced with a nerve-wracking challenge. I was asked to deliver a presentation to some clients — a task I’d never tackled before. Though initially nervous, the guidance and unwavering support from my incredible team made it possible. It was a great learning experience.
I hear that many of the staff here have passionate hobbies, do you have any that you’d like to share?
Yoko: Yes! I love to dance! Since I joined K&L, I’ve been learning a style called Afrobeats. I take classes anywhere from one to three times a week and occasionally participate in dance showcases. Pursuing this passion outside of work definitely keeps me motivated and creatively fueled, and I think K&L encourages such balance.
And lastly, do you have any goals for the future?
Mika: It’s only been a short time since I’ve been at the company, but I’m eager to dive into more projects with different clients so that I can expand my skills and knowledge.
Yoko: I’d also like to work with more markets, for instance, India and Africa, to broaden our global reach and connect with a wider audience.
Mika: Maybe you can even learn more Afrobeats dance skills in Africa!
Yoko: Yes!
Thank you, Yoko and Mika!