Inspired by their father who studied Japanese culture, was a black belt of Kyokushin karate under the instruction of the founder Oyama, and a life long learner of bushido, the Hello Shuwa founder from childhood developed a deep love and respect for Japan. In 2013, the Hello Shuwa founder moved to Japan with the goal of working alongside the Japanese Deaf and Hard of Hearing community. What was originally planned as a three-month study turned into a decade-long career, leading to deep connections, invaluable experiences, and a lifelong respect for Japan and its people. Immersing themselves in the culture and language by living with a Japanese Deaf family, they gained firsthand insight into the unique challenges faced by Deaf and Hard of Hearing individuals navigating both access within Japan.

Hello Shuwa was founded in first and foremost as a way to connect the world to Japan and its rich Deaf, Hard of Hearing, and Deaf Blind community. The founder sought to share opportunities for individuals to experience the culture, the language, and the tradition that is unique to the land of the rising sun. Hello Shuwa serves as a bridge, bringing people together to help foster deeper connections.

Secondly, Hello Shuwa was founded as a response to a growing need for ASL interpretation services that truly understand the cultural and linguistic nuances of working and socializing in Japan. While foreign agencies offered services, they often lacked the in-depth cultural mediation required for effective communication and representation. With a commitment to bridging these gaps, Hello Shuwa provides high-quality, culturally competent ASL interpreting services, ensuring that Deaf individuals and organizations visiting Japan understand Japan in its entirety. In return, Japanese stakeholders receive the respect, accuracy, and accessibility they deserve.

At Hello Shuwa, we believe that interpretation is more than just translating words—it’s about fostering true understanding, preserving cultural integrity, and building meaningful connections across languages and communities.