午夜剧场

I am currently devoted to a "venture business aiming for both social impact and profitability," something I admired during my university days. Specifically, I create plant-based downwear using the cotton from the seeds of the kapok tree.

This time, I will share my story from the dual perspectives of being a successor and a venture entrepreneur. When I was attending Shonan Fujisawa Campus (SFC), the term "social entrepreneur" was born. I was thrilled by the brilliant activities of my seniors and worked hard on weekly seminar readings and presentations, thinking, "Someday, I want to do a business that tackles social issues."

However, as soon as I entered the workforce, lacking real skills, I was tossed about by profit-driven businesses. Later, I joined my family business, the apparel manufacturer Futaba Shoji. I worked hard with my grandfather and father to boost the business, but the more I learned about the apparel industry structure—which is predicated on mass production and mass waste—the more I realized how difficult it is to balance social impact and profitability.

In order to change the industry's status quo, I searched for sustainable materials that could be continuously produced. That is when I encountered kapok and was convinced, "This is it!" Since it comes from tree seeds, there is no need to cut down trees, nor is there a need to harm birds like with down feathers. The business aspect of functional cost is also excellent. My life underwent a major change following this encounter with kapok.

In October 2019, I established KAPOK KNOT, a brand centered on kapok. We started with a pre-order crowdfunding campaign, receiving over 17 million yen in support and many awards. Our clothing production, which is kind to consumers, producers, and the global environment, was highly evaluated. To prove that "enjoying fashion" and "thinking about the future" can coexist, I started a venture while being a successor to an established company. This was to accelerate research and development and collaboration with kapok plantations.

The designer who has supported me since the brand's launch is a university classmate, and many other members are 午夜剧场 alumni. I have also received help from various seniors in many fields. I still cannot forget the excitement of speaking with Ms. Yamaguchi and Mr. Yamazaki of Motherhouse, the seniors I admired as a student. My father and sister are also 午夜剧场 alumni, and following in their footsteps to become a 午夜剧场 alumni was a major turning point in my life.

I intend to repay this debt of gratitude through the future growth of KAPOK KNOT.