Originally from Malaysia, Zen is currently based in Tokyo and works as a sustainability strategist at PADI, a diving education organization. We spoke to her about her background and her thoughts on tackling climate change issues and sustainable lifestyles both at work and in her personal life.
And what is her self-love journey as a yoga instructor?
[Wearing Organic cotton bra top (ivory)]
"I'm originally from Malaysia and have been in Tokyo for eight years. I currently work as a sustainability strategist at PADI, the world's largest diving education organization, and I also teach yoga on the side. I also run the marine environment organization "ProjekWaste," which I launched in Malaysia in 2020."
She has a strong sense of sustainability in her everyday life, and often recharges by being in contact with nature, such as the sea or greenery.
" I usually try to live as eco-friendly and sustainable a life as possible, and I share that with those around me and on social media. I absolutely love nature, and on my days off I recharge by the sea or in greenery. I like wine and coffee, and other than that I'm usually just lounging around at home."
[PROJEK WASTE activities]
Her main job is in the sustainable business, where she works to protect the oceans globally.
" Through diving, we aim to contribute to marine conservation and citizen science, providing know-how to divers and ocean lovers and sharing it with them. We also propose and plan ecotourism initiatives to develop the diving industry more sustainably. We also localize the projects and declarations of NPOs affiliated with our US headquarters for the Japanese market, and we plan and manage CSR activities through partnerships and collaborations with other companies and organizations."
Zen also works as a yoga instructor on the side. The tattoo of "Self-Love" on her arm is very striking. She says that self-love is a long journey for her.
"This is my first tattoo, in 2018! I got it in Japanese because I wanted to commemorate the first time I understood the meaning of self-love while growing up in Japan. I got it tattooed on my arm facing me so I can see it at any time. The design image I had in mind was something bright like the neon signs you see in Asian nightscapes, with a message that can reach many people."
Wearing organic cotton basic bra & shorts (olive/size S)
" When I first came to Japan, I desperately tried to fit in with the people around me by studying Japanese and imitating Japanese fashion and style. I gradually lost sight of my own identity. Around that time, the term "self-love" started to become popular overseas, and I became interested in journaling, wellness, and yoga. As I deepened my yoga practice, I became increasingly drawn to the philosophical and spiritual aspects, so I went to India to study yoga.
As I deepened my yoga practice, I began to focus on the state of my mind and body, and became more conscious of taking care of myself and listening to my body.Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, I returned to Malaysia for a long period of time, and that time allowed me to rediscover my roots. I realized that it's okay to express my individuality with pride, without unconsciously conforming to others."
She traveled between her hometown of Malaysia and Tokyo, struggling with her identity as she continued to confront who she was. She told us that these experiences helped her to make the seeds of "self-love" she had planted bloom.
" For me, self-love is how you treat yourself and how you live your life. It's about loving and respecting yourself, and investing in your growth to become a better version of yourself. Everyone has their own story and journey, so it's important not to compare yourself to others. I regularly journal and receive regular therapy to maintain my mental health. I also take yoga classes with other teachers and mentors to continue honing my skills."
[Wearing an organic cotton bra top (ivory) and Asana pants ]
Finally, we asked them what they usually pay attention to in relation to climate change and environmental issues.
" Personally, I try to be conscious of not using disposable plastics, composting, and minimizing the amount of waste I create. Because my house is small and I move frequently, I try to live a minimalist lifestyle by owning as few possessions as possible and not buying things I don't need. I use a renewable energy company for my home's electricity. I also regularly clean beaches, underwater, and parks, and hold events with a sustainable theme! And then there's food. In order to be considerate of the environment, I follow a flexitarian diet, avoiding meat as much as possible."
She came to Japan from Malaysia at the age of 18 and graduated from Waseda University's School of International Liberal Studies with a major in Environmental Studies. In 2020, she founded the youth-led organization "ProjekWaste" in Malaysia, which focuses on marine conservation and raising environmental awareness. She currently works as a sustainability strategist at PADI Japan, a diving education organization, and also works as a freelance yoga instructor. Her main focus is on initiatives and communication that connect environmental protection and wellness.
