2240“One year ago I came to Kyoto,” Fumi explains in her audio clip, “but at that time I didn’t have a job. I didn’t have a place to live. But I wanted my dream to come true so I came here, but my friends were wondering why I went to Kyoto.

”When I went back to my home town I have many friends and family, so many people were thinking it is better that I live in my home town instead. So when my friends said this phrase, it’s a very strong memory for me.

”When I remember this sometimes I feel sad, but sometimes I feel more strongly that I should do something to make my dream of living in Kyoto come true.”

Taken in Kyoto, Japan on the SOTM World Tour.