Backstory

I hail from the supernatural land of Shimane Prefecture, specifically Izumo, where ancient Japanese gods are said to have dwelled since time immemorial. Shimane has long been at the forefront of Japan’s aging society, grappling with population decline well before it became a national issue. Against this backdrop, my mother opened her first drugstore at the age of 47 in our hometown, addressing the overlooked needs of the elderly. Who would have guessed that adult diapers would become a major industry? Fast forward 15 years: the adult diaper market has surpassed that of baby diapers in Japan, and my mom had become the proud owner of one of western Japan’s largest drugstore chains. Her entrepreneurial journey taught me to admire those who transform setbacks into opportunities.

Unlike the deities of Shimane, I knew I lacked supernatural powers - so I figured I should go to college to boost my brainpower. Sadly, I quickly realized that even women with degrees were often expected to become “office ladies,” serving tea and printing copies. I left Japan and landed a job with the United Nations in war-torn Cambodia as part of the UN Peacekeeping Operations. Eventually, I transitioned to the investment banking sector in the US, exploring various roles in global finance.

Yet, amidst the spreadsheets, a voice inside reminded me not to forget my roots. I'd always wanted to work with entrepreneurs like my mom - and now, after decades, I’m fortunate to partner with inspiring founders.

What’s a side project or hobby you’re obsessed with?

I recently discovered my inner Shakira. I’m on a mission to master every shimmy and hip drop in the belly dance playbook. No public performances are planned - so everyone can relax.

About Yumiko

Upon graduating from university in Japan, I moved to the United States to pursue graduate studies at Stanford University. My first job out of school was with the United Nations, where I worked in Barbados, Cambodia, and New York (yes, quite a random mix). After earning an MBA from Harvard University, I worked in the investment banking industry for nearly 20 years, primarily with Goldman Sachs in New York, London, and Tokyo. Before launching MPower Partners in 2021, I spent seven years at the OECD (Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development) as the head of its Japan office. In this role, I was involved in economic policy development for various government entities. I currently serve as a member of the Prime Minister’s Economic Panel, as well as several ministries.