Akiko is a global producer, cultural content consultant, and children’s book author whose storytelling journey began in a small beach town in Japan. Captivated by the magic of television, she saw media as a portal to imagination — a passion that led her to Sesame Workshop, where she has spent over a decade localizing educational content for children in Japan, Bangladesh, and Turkey.

 

Her work focuses on crafting culturally resonant “edutainment” that balances learning with joy. She has led international co-productions that reflect the unique needs of local communities, and also brought edutainment to the Vietnamese market as a segment producer for Hi-Five, Vietnam’s top-rated children’s show. Whether through global partnerships or independent productions, Akiko’s mission is to create transformative media that helps children everywhere grow stronger, smarter, and kinder.

Her creative path also led to the birth of ISHI, Simple Tips from a Solid Friend, a picture book born from a moment of personal healing. What began as a quiet project of self-discovery evolved into a global message of resilience and kindness. Through ISHI, she continues to create content that uplifts children and families navigating life’s tough moments.

 

Now based in Brooklyn, Akiko continues her work with Sesame Workshop while developing new ISHI projects. When she’s not producing, she’s swimming laps, stopping dogs on the street, or laughing with her daughter and husband — all under the watchful eye of their black Labrador.