Meet Yuko

Yuko is a Japanese migrant living in Sydney on the land of the Gadigal people of the Eora nation. She is passionate about being a bridge between Japan and Australia and introducing traditional Japanese artisan crafts that make a positive difference to our lives. Yuko aims to connect Japanese artisans with international markets in order to protect this traditional industry, and 800 years of craftsmanship, from collapse. She aims to be financially independent through her business – something that has been challenging since having children. Through Shokunin Store, Yuko wants to challenge Japanese cultural norms around women in a male-dominated industry.

Shokunin Store offers the finest Japanese artisan products including items designed in Australia featuring Japanese artists or materials sourced in Japan. Shokunin Store has beautifully handcrafted garden tools, kitchen knives, ceramics and home furnishings that are truly unique and have rarely been seen outside of Japan. Shokunin Store is committed to sustainability- the products are made to last forever and Yuko is educating her Japanese suppliers on environmental packaging options.

Sister Pitch Asks: Yuko is looking for chefs, hospitality industry and other industry leaders to help provide exposure and endorsement of Japanese metalwork. She is also seeking  introductions to the food and cosmetic industry for a new ingredient (Camelia Seed oil) to Australia and potential high-end, designer stockists for her metalwork products – these could include gardening industry, boutique kitchenware, design shops.

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