Hey Shonen Soda Family,
Growing up, I've always felt a foot in two worlds. Born in the city of Yokohama, Japan, my earliest memories are painted with the vibrant hues of Japanese traditions and landscapes. But at the age of 8, my world took a turn. My mother and I packed our bags and moved to the sunny Bay Area, California. This shift was my first taste of a world outside Japan, and it was challenging.
The golden state, with its sunny skies and warm-hearted people, quickly felt like home. However, the journey to truly fit in wasn't without its hurdles. My school was predominantly Asian, which meant my English skills remained the same. It wasn't until high school, surrounded by a diverse group of American friends, that I truly began to embrace the language and culture. This was also when I discovered my love for rap, skating, and fashion - elements of American culture that deeply resonated with me.
Yet, amidst all of this, my heart never strayed from its Japanese roots. The flavors of Japanese sodas and snacks from my childhood remained in my memory. This nostalgia, combined with my entrepreneurial spirit, led to a dream: to introduce the world to the modern Japanese lifestyle through beverages.
Enter Shonen Soda. More than just a beverage brand, it's a reflection of my journey. Our mission at Shonen Soda is to blend the best of both worlds - offering Japanese-inspired products tailored to global tastes. We aim to bridge cultures, fostering pride and confidence across generations and backgrounds.
Today, as a proud Japanese American, I'm grateful for the lessons both cultures have taught me. And through Shonen Soda, I hope to share a piece of my story, my heritage, and my love for the diverse tapestry of life.
Join us in sipping the fusion of traditions, one can at a time.
With all our fizz and love,
The Shonen Soda Team.