Learning to Embrace Being Japanese

On social media, Manae Shimizu-Kaczmarczyk comes across as a bubbly influencer with many followers and numerous brand partnerships. But in this conversation, she reveals her thoughtful side, and she tells the story of going from rejecting her Japanese background to embracing it.

We discussed: 

• What sets Manae apart from other social media influencers in Poland 
• The work that goes into creating a social media presence and being a brand ambassador 
• Dealing with online negativity and inappropriate behavior 
• Manae’s childhood and growing up disliking being Japanese
• Sisterly bonds
• Trying to change her appearances to blend in
• What changed her attitude towards her multinational background
• How concern for her sister led Manae to study art therapy

Manae’s TikTok: bit.ly/3RwCScl
Manae’s Instagram: bit.ly/3GUqSwa
Follow this show on Instagram: bit.ly/3NDZI0i