Journey of Growth at SIPS: Rooted in Justice, Growing Through Peace

Susan Sakano from Brazil, graduated from the SIPS program in 2021 as one of the second batch students. With a background in legal practice in Brazilian law firms and actively engaging in international human rights research since 2016, she has participated in advocacy projects and collaborated with various legal scholars and NGOs. The newly launched SIPS program by Soka University in 2018 offered Susan a chance to explore global human rights and peace in English while reconnecting with her Japanese heritage, which led to her decision in enrolling in the SIPS program. She was especially drawn to Soka University’s humanistic approach to education, which contrasted with the disheartening educational approaches that overlooked the students' potential.

Susan deeply cherished her time at Soka University, where the natural beauty of the campus helped her to stay grounded and focused while the enriching SIPS program also brought her a deep sense of peace and inspiration during her two years of studies. She felt that the SIPS program created a space for mutual learning and lasting friendships within a diverse cohort, allowing for meaningful dialogue on peace and conflict. Despite the challenges of the Covid-19 pandemic and being isolated far from home, she found strength in the unwavering support from professors, staff, and fellow students. After all these challenges, Susan successfully completed her thesis and developed the skills required for conducting independent research. Her time at SIPS led to profound personal growth, lasting friendships, and unforgettable memories.

SIPS played a pivotal role in shaping Susan’s career, sparking her passion for qualitative research, strengthening her commitment to grassroots movements, and giving her the confidence to pursue a PhD. Currently, she is an ESRC-funded PhD candidate in Sociology and Social Policy at Durham University, where her current research builds on the foundation laid during the SIPS program. Specifically, her doctoral research focuses on the protection of women human rights defenders in Brazil, exploring themes such as decolonization, racial and gender-based violence, and community-led protection strategies. It was truly in the SIPS programme, Susan learned to align her experiences, skills, and aspirations with her long-term goals.

To current and prospective SIPS students, Susan offers a message: I hope you have as wonderful a time at Soka University as I did! SIPS is a young and evolving programme, which means you have a unique opportunity to help shape its traditions and contribute to its growth. Unlike older institutions with fixed ways of doing things, SIPS encourages exploration, creativity, and new ideas. I hope you embrace that and take initiative, be curious, and follow your passions. I am confident that SIPS will provide the perfect environment for you to explore the meaning of peace, discover your own path, and shape the future you envision.

This is a poem by the founder that has always encouraged me:

My cherished friends,
students of Soka University,
I urge you:
Be strong in the days
of your youth!
Be strong throughout your life!
Be unyielding, decisive in your strength!
For herein lies the key
to victory in all things!
 
Relentlessly study and learn!
Single-mindedly, determinedly
study and learn!
For herein lies victory
amid the harsh realities of life!
 
Never be defeated,
never wallow in self-pity.
Conquer your own mind!
 
A struggle with yourself--
that is the reality of your life
for the entirety of your life.
 
Daisaku Ikeda, "Standing Among the Ruins of Takiyama Castle"
Seikyo Shimbun, January 24, 2000.