Columns

For this interview, we were welcomed into what Mr. Oku calls the “Uganda House.”

It is a space he built entirely by hand, decorated with photos of chimpanzees he took in Uganda, and filled with the aroma of delicious Ugandan coffee.  Listening to him speak in this warm, intimate setting—one that felt almost as if we were truly in Uganda—was an incredibly special experience.

In this article, we share reflections from the PREX staff who accompanied the interview and what left the strongest impressions on each of us.

In this article, we share reflections from the PREX staff who accompanied the interview and what left the strongest impressions on each of us.

PREX Kojima

What struck me most was how honestly and straightforwardly he faces himself.

Throughout the interview, he spoke not only about Smileyearth’s initiatives, but also about pivotal experiences in his life and moments that shaped who he is today. I felt that he is someone who takes on new challenges only after carefully examining himself and gaining a deep sense of conviction. I think very few people can actually do that.

Many of us struggle to understand what we ourselves are thinking or feeling.
Sometimes we treat our own thoughts lightly, fail to acknowledge our emotions, or put ourselves last.
Life goes on even when we do that, of course—but listening to Mr. Oku reminded me how important it is to face ourselves honestly and intentionally.

PREX Araki

I found it fascinating how thoroughly Mr. Oku examines the meaning behind choosing organic practices, and how deeply he pursues the vision Smileyearth aims for. His commitment to exploring these questions is part of what makes the company so compelling.

Since joining PREX, I’ve visited many different organizations.
In companies where people consistently return to the core philosophy and use it as their guiding principle, employees always seem engaged and motivated. I believe that’s because they carry a strong, enduring commitment to society, their organization, and the people connected to it.

I look forward to seeing Smileyearth continue to thrive.

PREX Hazama

Before meeting him, I wondered “What kind of person runs the Hakone Ekiden?”

After speaking with Mr. Oku and touring the remarkable experimental field known as the Smileyearth Park, I realized how powerful and enviable life close to nature can be. It reminded me of my time living in Guatemala.

A power outage or loss of running water or gas could bring my daily life to a halt. Compared to that, seeing someone like Mr. Oku, who can create and procure what he needs with his own hands, was truly inspiring.

During the interview, he also spoke about his next challenges—and he is already taking steady, concrete steps toward them.
I am excited to continue following his journey.