Ōta TOKYO

Executive Committee Members

• Creator Zone Director

  Keeko

  
  

  After working at GMO Internet, I became a freelance web developer while also building a six-year career as a cosplayer. In 2024, I attended cosplay events in more than 10 countries, which inspired me to join Ōta TOKYO with the goal of expanding cosplay culture in India. I also produce cosplay events in Yokohama.

• Founder / Creative Director

  Hiro

  
  

• Production / Project Director

  Hide

  

  After earning master's degrees from the University of Tokyo and the Technical University of Munich, I gained extensive experience in business planning and development at Taisei Corporation and Recruit. I later played a key leadership role in launching OYO's Japan business as a core member of its Japanese management team. Today, while running my own company, I serve as a board member and advisor to multiple organizations. As a specialist in business creation, I support projects across Japan and internationally—including Southeast and South Asia—in areas such as business development, AI, regional revitalization, and entrepreneurship.

• Project Manager

  Hanaka

  

  Outside of my professional career, I am actively involved in a wide range of initiatives, including managing an NGO that supports education in Africa, organizing the Tanzania Koshien and Kenya Koshien baseball tournaments, and planning and running international exchange events. Professionally, I work for a B2B manufacturing company, where I specialize in international marketing and the management of overseas subsidiaries. I also have hands-on experience exhibiting at and managing a booth at PlastIndia. My expertise includes project management and facilitating international conferences. Since May, I have been based in Shanghai.

• Project Management

  Yuu

  

  During high school, I founded the volunteer organization Asuloa and led community-based initiatives in my hometown. More recently, I participated in Hyogo Prefecture's Trial Entrepreneurship Program, where I developed the concept for Yumenity, a service that supports businesses in building e-commerce platforms. In addition to running Yumenity, I am a core member of the U-25 initiative Hyōgen Night, where I help young people turn their dreams and ideas into reality.

• PR

  Nogi

  

  Since 2002, I have built my career in the bridal industry, starting with bridal gown services and expanding into wedding and children's photography. I provide an end-to-end customer experience, covering beauty services, kimono dressing, and photography. I was promoted to store manager at 25, area manager at 30, and executive officer at 39. Balancing hands-on operations with management, I am passionate about customer service training and work as an instructor, helping create service experiences that foster long-term customer loyalty.

• Food Area Leader

  Jaewon

  

  Since September of last year, I completed a six-month internship supporting Japanese companies expanding into the Indian market. I also served as the Food & Maid Café Manager at the previous edition of the event, overseeing the planning and operation of those areas.

• Operation Lead

  Aryu

  

  I majored in Control and Information Engineering at a National Institute of Technology (KOSEN) and am currently developing applications powered by Large Language Models (LLMs). Through my internship experience in the anime industry, I have gained a comprehensive perspective of the industry, from upstream production processes to downstream distribution and services. Following my involvement in the previous Bangalore edition, I am once again participating in the event’s operations, aiming to create new experiences by combining both technological expertise and on-the-ground insights.

• Shibuya Area Leader

  Sae

  

  During university, I worked with Suzuki Motor Corporation’s impact fund, Next Bharat, where I was involved in managing talent exchange programs and supporting Japan–India collaboration initiatives at the Suzuki Innovation Centre within IIT Hyderabad.
  I currently serve as a manager at a startup community in Shibuya while simultaneously launching multiple consumer brands, including a D2C fashion business targeting India’s Gen Z market and a haircare brand. I am planning to relocate to India in August 2026.

• Harajuku Area Leader

  Kuma

  

  After leaving UC Berkeley, I co-founded a character IP company with Inoue. I have gained experience working with the agency behind Opanchu Usagi and with Dreams, the company behind Sonny Angel, with the goal of creating globally recognized intellectual properties.
  Based in Japan, I am currently developing entertainment businesses targeting the Indian market. Centered around an influencer-driven business model, I plan to expand into original character IP development and idol projects.

• Chief Nandemo Officer

  Iwama

  

  With nearly 20 years of experience living in India, I have built an extensive network across various sectors related to India. I have delivered lectures on India business and market entry strategies for government agencies and other public organizations. I also serve as an advisor to the Japan–India Chamber of Commerce and Industry and as an overseas collaboration advisor for the University of Tsukuba. Including experience in other countries, I have more than 30 years of international experience. Deeply familiar with otaku culture, I consider myself young at heart...

• Akiba Area Leader

  Ren

  

  During high school, I launched an anime sharing service. After graduation, I worked as an engineer involved in product development at companies including pixiv, note, and GO. I am currently co-founder of a character IP company with Ito, who leads the Harajuku area initiative.

• Kyoto Area Leader

  Sato

  
• PR/SNS Director

  Aria

  
  

  In 2023, I began my career as a cosplayer and joined the founding team of Ota TOKYO, where I serve as the PR lead. At the same time, I founded CREPORT Inc., expanding Japan’s anime and merchandise sales and promotional support across India and Southeast Asia. As a cosplayer, I aim to become a “brand ambassador” for Japanese otaku culture, sharing what I love with the world and building a lifelong career around my passions. My dream is to be recognized by Yoshihiro Togashi.

• Mini TOKYO Area Lead

  Micco

  

  I am involved in planning and managing market events and community events, contributing to event production and operations. I also have experience handling corporate back-office operations and managing a café as a store manager. With a focus on creating meaningful real-world experiences, I develop initiatives that connect people and local communities.