Name: Fernando
Hometown: Dominican Republic
Work: Music, graphic designer and sound designer
Q: What brought you to Japan?
A: I had an interest in Japanese culture and studied in university for two years, and did study abroad programs and fell in love with the country, So now I’ve been here for the past 13 years.
Q: How has living in a different country changed your life?
A: Living in a foreign country made me see what I took for granted. Living abroad taught me that I had a really similar experience to what my family felt. Going to a foreign country and learning the language made me empathize with others and actually communicating with others will always be a challenge.
Q: What advice do you have for Black youth and creatives?
A: There is a lack of access to resources, the mental and emotional support towards big decisions is needed. You need to have the notion in your head that something can be done, and to do it. Choosing what you want, jumping at it, and really not letting things get in your way, whatever obstacles that you see acknowledge them and get rid of them the best you can. Be the first one to enact change in whatever environment you’re in. Commit to what you’re doing and communicate, it’s about meeting people at their level.