I’m Sotaro Yokoi, and I made the decision to embark on a year-long journey to Canada in order to immerse myself in the study of English. At the young age of 15, my arrival in Ottawa was accompanied by the realization that I had barely any grasp of the English language. However, fueled by an unwavering passion for learning and improving, I dedicated myself to the challenge.

Now, I find myself capable of effortlessly communicating with individuals from various corners of the world. Intrigued by the idea of expanding my horizons further, I recently took the leap and began learning Spanish, with the aim of connecting with even more people and delving into diverse cultures.

It was upon my return to Japan in 2020, amidst the onset of the relentless Covid-19 pandemic, that I discovered a new outlet for my creativity: photography. Ever since then, this form of artistic expression has opened my mind to a plethora of new experiences and perspectives, leaving me even more curious about the world around me…

After the loss of my father, my world crumbled, and my dreams, However, I made a decision to embark on a solo journey across Japan in 2021 as a means of healing and solace.

Venturing into the unknown gradually filled the void left by my father's absence. The culture, history, and people I encountered sparked a newfound appreciation for life. The personal growth I experienced through these encounters challenged my perspectives and expanded my horizons.

I learned to cherish the present moment and embrace my independence, developing resilience and adaptability. This journey allowed me to find solace, rediscover my inner strength, and open a new chapter in my life.

As I reflect on this transformative year, I am filled with gratitude for the experiences, people, and lessons that have shaped me. While the pain of losing my father was immense, this journey taught me to embrace life's bittersweet moments and appreciate the unexpected beauty within them.

I carry the memories and lessons of my solo journey through Japan with me, knowing that life has a way of offering unexpected gifts even in the face of loss.