We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Gemma Matsuyama. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Gemma below.
Gemma, so good to have you with us today. We’ve got so much planned, so let’s jump right into it. We live in such a diverse world, and in many ways the world is getting better and more understanding but it’s far from perfect. There are so many times where folks find themselves in rooms or situations where they are the only ones that look like them – that might mean being the only woman of color in the room or the only person who grew up in a certain environment etc. Can you talk to us about how you’ve managed to thrive even in situations where you were the only one in the room?
Navigating situations where you are the only one in the room who looks like you can be challenging, but it also presents unique opportunities for growth and leadership. I had to lean in that my unique background and experiences are assets, not liabilities.
Through the years I’ve built a network of trusted colleagues I can gain insight from challenging moments to stay resilient and continuously learn from.
The greatest gift from overcoming these experiences is the doors you get to open for more diversity and inclusivity.
Let’s take a small detour – maybe you can share a bit about yourself before we dive back into some of the other questions we had for you?
Hi, I’m Gemma Matsuyama, the founder of Kimochi, a fresh fruit Daifuku mochi concept. My journey with Kimochi began with a passion for creating delightful Japanese sweets that blend traditional flavors with fresh, local fruits that everyone can enjoy. I started hosting pop-ups across Los Angeles, bringing the unique experience of Kimochi to various communities. Each piece of our Daifuku mochi is crafted with care, aiming to offer not just a treat, but a memorable taste experience that celebrates both culture and seasonality.
Additionally, I offer consulting services to clients looking to expand their offerings, drawing from my background in Japanese and Italian food.
My goal is for more people to enjoy desserts they love and share with their loved ones while feeling good about the sourcing and, most importantly, the flavors.
New things are coming to Kimochi, so please stay tuned for our next pop-up date on our Instagram.
If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
Looking back, three qualities that made the biggest impact on my journey were resilience, creativity, and adaptability. Resilience helped me bounce back from setbacks, creativity allowed me to come up with unique ideas, and adaptability ensured I could roll with the changes.
For those just starting out, I’d say: build resilience by viewing challenges as chances to learn, nurture your creativity by always exploring new things, and develop adaptability by staying open to new opportunities and being flexible with your plans. These qualities will help you navigate and thrive in different seasons of life.
Okay, so before we go we always love to ask if you are looking for folks to partner or collaborate with?
Absolutely! I’m seeking partners and collaborators who share my vision for Kimochi as a peaceful haven where people can truly relax and savor the present moment. I’m looking for detail-oriented individuals who are passionate about creating serene and delightful spaces. If you feel a connection to this vision and are excited about bringing it to life, I’d love to hear from you.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://Www.kimochiusa.com
- Instagram: https://Www.instagram.com/kimochi.us
Image Credits
Stephanie Chen, Angie Huang, Alt Atelier/Studios
so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
