Peco’s “My Awakening”: Opening the Door to New Challenges and Finding a Bigger World
Everyone has a moment that unlocks new possibilities. In our My Awakening series, we explore those moments with people who continue to shape their own future.
Today's storyteller is Peco — media personality and fashion brand producer.
Peco (Media personality / Fashion Brand Producer)
Born in Osaka in 1995, Peco rose to fame as a model in the Harajuku fashion scene, gaining immense popularity particularly among teenagers. In 2018, she became a mother, and in 2023, she launched her own fashion brand, Tostalgic Clothing, where she serves as both designer and producer.
A World I Admired, Finally Within Reach
I've always loved American pop culture — the music, fashion, movies. But English felt intimidating, so that world remained at a distance.
In 2024, a new opportunity encouraged me to start learning English seriously. At first, I wondered if I could really do it. But I wanted to grow — maybe more than ever before.
The first few months were tough. Then slowly, I started understanding lyrics from the songs I love, and scenes from movies I've watched countless times. I found myself expressing feelings in English — and the world felt brighter, closer.
One day at Disney World, I was able to tell "Aladdin" how much I loved him — in English. It was a tiny moment, but it made me believe I can connect with the world in my own words. That joy opened new doors, including appearing on an NHK language program.
Now I enjoy posting English-speaking videos on Instagram, connecting with people from around the globe — something past me would never have imagined.
Doing What You Love Becomes Your Strength
When I love something, I pour myself into it — without even realizing it. For years, I posted on my blog every single day simply because it made me happy. People called it effort, but to me, it was joy.
Even moving from Osaka to Tokyo after high school wasn't a grand decision. I just loved Harajuku — so I went. That choice led to work, friendships, and a life I cherish today.
Absorbing yourself in what you love — that's powerful. It becomes momentum. It becomes talent. Of course, challenges come with the path. Early in my career, I sometimes played roles that didn't feel true to me. That taught me something important.
Choosing what aligns with your heart is also a form of strength. Taking care of your authentic self is not selfish — it's essential.
Following Curiosity Creates New Possibilities
If someone asks for my "big dream," I can't give a simple answer. But learning English has made the future feel exciting and full of options.
Someday, I want to meet the cast of Glee and the creators of Coco — and tell them, in my own words, how their work inspired me. English is now a tool that lets me reach people I care about — not only in Japan but all over the world.
To anyone who feels unsure about their next step, you don't have to rush toward a fixed goal. You can start with whatever sparks your interest today.
If it doesn't feel right, you can change direction. Through these little choices, you'll discover something you naturally continue — something that becomes your path.
Possibility often starts with curiosity. And who knows? Maybe today you'll find something new to love.
I'll keep moving forward at my own pace, embracing the excitement of what comes next.
