Kimono Mom tackles female entrepreneurship challenges in Japan

Kimono Mom, formerly known as Moe, has transitioned from being a geisha-turned-YouTuber to a successful entrepreneur in just one year. During a recent meeting with Tatler in Tokyo, she shared insights into her journey as a female business leader and how YouTube has become her “global safe space.”

Previously, Kimono Mom focused on creating heartwarming mom-daughter videos, but now she has expanded her endeavors with the opening of her own shop, Kimono Mom Store, in Komaba, Tokyo. This shop, reminiscent of a traditional Japanese house, sells utensils featured in her cooking videos, merchandise, and her flagship product, umami sauce.

Despite her success, Kimono Mom acknowledges the challenges of being a female entrepreneur in Japan. In business meetings, she often feels overlooked, with people preferring to speak to her husband. However, she remains optimistic, viewing these challenges as opportunities for personal and professional growth.

Kimono Mom’s journey to entrepreneurship has been marked by resilience and determination. From navigating divorce and postpartum depression to starting her YouTube channel, she has overcome numerous obstacles to achieve her goals. Through her brand, she aims to challenge traditional gender roles and empower women to pursue their dreams.

Despite her accomplishments, Kimono Mom still faces misconceptions about her identity. Many people praise her for embodying the role of a traditional housewife, which she finds frustrating and at odds with her mission. To address this, she has diversified the format of her content and actively engages with her audience to promote her core values.

YouTube remains Kimono Mom’s “global safe space,” where she can connect with like-minded individuals and share her message of empowerment. She is committed to uplifting women and correcting misconceptions, both for herself and for future generations.

In a country where female representation in corporate leadership remains low, Kimono Mom’s journey serves as a beacon of hope for aspiring entrepreneurs. Despite the challenges she faces, she continues to thrive and inspire others to pursue their passions. As she navigates the complexities of entrepreneurship, she remains steadfast in her commitment to empowering women and challenging stereotypes.

Repurposed article originally published in Tatler