Creativity, Curiosity, and growth: Meet elder okawa
Whether he’s helping with communication projects, producing music, skateboarding, or growing tropical plants, Elder Okawa brings curiosity and creativity into everything he does. Because of this, Elder Okawa could be described as the “jack of all trades”. His job here at American Heritage Worldwide is diverse, and what inspired him to work here was the people and the vision-driven work culture.
“I do not have a single strong suit here, which encouraged me to learn more skills and branch out to get some coverage.”
He is adaptable in his work, and his experience proves it. He did not come here with video, marketing, graphic design, or strong communication skills, and despite it all, he has become one of the primary behind-the-scenes members of our team.
The power of lifelong learning
The ability to adjust and grow from experiences is an admirable trait Elder Okawa possesses. One certification he is particularly proud of earning is his Eagle Scout at a time when the Boy Scouts were not supported by any large organizations when he started. Within this program, he learned countless leadership skills due to the fact that, with the adult leaders’ help, it was up to the troop to make and set plans. This also taught him countless life skills such as how to be prepared to learn new skills on how to be prepared to learn.
Connecting with people with different backgrounds at one of his past jobs has taught him many life lessons he has incorporated into how he lives everyday. This community within his call center job was a reality check for him that people are struggling, and taught him that there are a lot of different ways to live. Along with this, the advice he would get was to pursue education and find the right career. Along with this advice was: “Don’t forget about the little guys.” A phrase he now carries into his work.
It is truly admirable the lessons and openmindedness that Elder Okawa has in his everyday life that allow him to move forward, and gives him hope that he can build the life he wants without accepting the “status quo”. Through his journey, the skill he hopes students take away is that:
“The ability to learn is the only skill they need to succeed in life.”
Faith in hope
The gospel of Jesus Christ has given Elder Okawa a long term outlook on his life and the way he goes about life. When faced with challenges, the principle of trying again, repentance, and forgiveness from the atonement has taught him that he can always progress and improve himself and his life. He has seen the Lord’s guiding hand through his failures and shortcomings, which has led his life to a different future than what he imagined was for him.
“They should know the relationship is direct and real with Jesus Christ and through Him we can also become new.”
Life outside of work
Elder Okawa lives an exciting life; it’s part of the “Work hard, play hard” principle he lives by. He has a love for nature, and with this, he enjoys throwing lines out for fish and camping. His room is cluttered with all kinds of tropical plants that are connected to his heritage, and bring nature to him. He often spends a lot of time shredding on his skateboard with friends and practicing tricks.
Whether working or adventuring, Elder Okawa believes growth begins with a willingness to keep searching, learning, and trying again. He is a vital member of our team with his hardworking and humorous personality.
I am a service missionary for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter day Saints with a focus on Christ‑centered education and its ability to strengthen lives worldwide. I’m a passionate writer who is a strong advocate for mental health and personal growth.
