Everything Happens for a Reason — Reflections and Intentions for the Year Ahead

There is a Chinese proverb that says, “Good fortune and misfortune are two sides of the same coin.”
It means that in life, happiness and hardship are unpredictable.
What may seem like misfortune can later turn into something good, and what appears fortunate may reveal unexpected challenges.
Because of this, the proverb teaches us not to overreact to what happens in the moment, but to face life calmly and with patience.

One year ago, I never imagined that I would start my own brand, NiiNu.
I had convinced myself that it would be impossible — starting a brand on my own, in a foreign country, with no safety net.
It felt unrealistic, almost irresponsible.

Everything changed in March 2025.
I decided to stop overthinking and simply try — to rely on my own strength and take the first step.
My initial goal was very clear: to exhibit at FindersKeepers DK.

I worked as a fashion designer in Tokyo for many years, but after moving abroad, I experienced a long break from the industry.
Despite that gap, I listed everything I needed to do, promised myself to keep moving forward, and began building NiiNu piece by piece.

What surprised me most was how quickly my life started to feel alive again.
The excitement I used to feel when working in my early years returned.
There were moments when I loved the pieces I created so much that I almost didn’t want to sell them.
The work is detailed and time-consuming, but the sense of fulfillment always outweighs the difficulty.

Without realizing it, my everyday life became vibrant again.

I’ve always believed in one simple motto: “Just try.”
Looking back now, I feel that this mindset — something I’ve carried with me since I was young — has finally found its place.

Life has peaks and valleys for everyone.
And it is often when we are in the valley, or slowly climbing toward the next peak, that perseverance matters most.
If we continue to refine our path without giving up, each of us, in our own timing, can move closer to what we truly seek.

I have spent over 20 years working in the fashion industry.
Along the way, I experienced difficult apprenticeships, unexpected troubles, and even company bankruptcies.
Yet now, when I reflect on those moments, I feel that everything has led me to where I am today.

I know that many unexpected things still lie ahead — far beyond what I can imagine.
Even so, I choose to move forward with curiosity and openness, embracing the journey as it unfolds.