Date of publication: Dec 31, 2018

Rodrigo Coronel

Ambassador: Embassy of Nicaragua

Date of birth: Dec. 18, 1975

Hometown: Rio San Juan, Nicaragua

Number of years in Japan (cumulative): 1 (as of December 2018)

Q1: What was your first encounter with Japan?

It was through anime. I have loved it since then and now I am proud to say I am an otaku (geek). Anime was the spark that lit the fire of curiosity to learn more about Japan and its culture. The richness and diversity of it reflects on the actual richness and diversity that Japan has to offer. Thus, I continue loving watching it and also learning about Japan.

Q2: Please state your motto in life and why you have chosen it.

“Live life like it is your last day.” When you put everything you have like it would be your last day on this earth every day, you truly can start anew every day. Thus, starting anew every day, you live life to the fullest, as you will focus on the present and future instead of dwelling on the past. So go out there and live life like it is your last day!

Q3 : Over your career, what achievement are you the proudest of?

This may sound as a bit tatemae (answer given to satisfy others) but my proudest moment is right now. Being in Japan as the ambassador of Nicaragua has brought me the most joy so far in my life. It has given me the opportunity to not only help those who need it the most back at home, but also live in a country that I admire more each day.

Q4 : What are your goals during your time in Japan, your current position or in life?

I want to reach out to every Japanese and tell them how grateful we are for their help; how their taxes contribute to setting up social projects and sharing of knowledge. How their government, the Japan International Cooperation Agency, NGOs and other organizations have delivered hope and happiness to us. I want them to know about Nicaragua, the happiness of our people and how we would love to welcome them with open arms.

Q5 : What wisdom, advice or tips can you give to people living and working in Japan?

My recommendation to those living in Japan or working in Japan will be to get out there and meet all sorts of people. Go to the izakaya (Japanese pub), become a jōren (regular customer), be adventurous with the food, visit the onset and use the subway. Japan is a truly wonderful country and its people are very warm and welcoming once you really put an effort to get to know them. Go and experience everything Japan has to offer and not just the touristy places and the gaijin-friendly spots.

Last updated: Dec 31, 2018