Date of publication: Oct 28, 2019
Jeffrey T. Pimentel
- Founder and CEO
- Jefwifi LLC http://www.jefwifi.com
Date of birth:
Hometown: Manila
Number of years in Japan (cumulative): 20 (as of October 2019)
Q1: What was your first encounter with Japan?
My first encounter with Japan was when I first went to Akihabara to buy a VHF/UHF transceiver for my business. I was amazed and excited knowing that the design and functionality are so advanced compared to other brands. After that, I said to myself that this is a good place for my futuristic ideas and innovation. After that, the rest is history.
Q2: Please state your motto in life and why you have chosen it.
“Treat the janitor with respect in the same way you would treat the boss.” I believe in good and bad karma; no matter how far you’ve come and how successful you are, always respect people around you and treat them the same no matter who they are. We never know, maybe time will tell how lucky you may be for being kind to others.
Q3 : Over your career, what achievement are you the proudest of?
When I built the Jefwifi app, at first it was just a dream of sharing Wi-Fi. Over time, it becomes global. Smartphone users and business owners are enjoying my invention; I’m reinventing how Wi-Fi is being distributed by just connecting the right dots. Users like you and me can interact more openly. Google is also using our app — it’s a positive result and I’m proud of it.
Q4 : What are your goals during your time in Japan, your current position or in life?
The world has problems — climate change, cybersecurity, nuclear missiles and trade wars. With the right technology and right people, problems can be reduced and solve. For example, during the coming Tokyo 2020 Olympics I want to protect everyone and foreign visitors while here in Japan by connecting their smart devices with a highly secure network. I will keep on building things that will benefit people — privacy is my priority.
Q5 : What wisdom, advice or tips can you give to people living and working in Japan?
Understand and respect the Japanese people and their culture. Once you follow their rules, you will never notice, you are already one of them. Humble and honest. Enjoy Japanese food and tea, it will help you stay healthy and stress-free. To become successful in Japan, stay humble and think positive. Never give up, always maintain simplicity and respect others. Respect people in every way, and never forget that honesty is the best policy. Failures will keep you smarter and stronger, so keep on moving and trying. All of this comes from my heart, because it comes naturally. Again, stay sweet and simple.
Last updated: Oct 28, 2019