FILA×CAREER - Graduate working in the Refugee Support INGO

Ms. Cintia Kiyomi Shiratori graduated from the Faculty of International Liberal Arts (FILA) in 2020 as the 3rd class. After graduation, she studied for a master's degree in Education at the University of Cambridge. After completing Graduate School, she started working at an INGO (International Non-Governmental Organization) which supports refugees settling in the UK. She talked about why she chose Soka University and FILA, what she learned here, and how learning at FILA helps her to work.

Why did you choose Soka University and FILA?

I chose Soka University because it was founded based on a value-creating humanistic philosophy of education that aims to foster global citizens. When I started to consider Soka University for my bachelor’s degree, I read about its history and mission, and I instantly resonated with its values. I then applied to FILA due to its focus on interdisciplinary studies and critical and analytical thinking. I have always had several academic interests and FILA enabled me to pursue this curiosity and create a strong foundation for future studies and professional endeavors.

What is the best memory you have about FILA?

My best memories in FILA are the seminar classes led by Dr. Guajardo. In those weekly classes, we would learn about leadership studies and reflect on its relevance to our research, our lives as leaders, and society. Those classes offered me a very safe and honest space to critically study leadership and become a better leader myself.

What did you learn in FILA?

During my time in FILA, I learned about leadership theories, international migration, international education, development studies, and international relations. But most importantly, beyond learning a vast range of subjects and improving my critical and analytical skills, I learned more about myself, what my interests were and started to envision dreams for my future.

Which part of FILA do you like?

Please tell us your story after your graduation from FILA.

After graduating from FILA in 2020, I moved to the UK to pursue my master’s degree in Education at the University of Cambridge. As it was amid the global covid-19 pandemic, the transition into a new country and postgraduate studies had its challenges. Nevertheless, it was by remembering the purpose of my studies that I gained renewed energy and determination to succeed in my studies.
I currently work as a Monitoring, Evaluation and Learning Officer at the INGO. I specifically focus on the Resettlement, Asylum and Integration Unit in the UK, supporting refugees as they resettle in this country. I work closely with programmes in Cultural Integration, Employability and Education to design theories of change, monitor their impact and report it to donors.

Why and how did you choose your current job?

Over the past years, I realized I have a strong passion to understand social change and, at the same time, really enjoy utilizing my analytical and creative skills. At my current role, I have the opportunity to employ these skills and explore these interests whilst working for projects aligned with my values that support those fleeing war to resettle and integrate in the UK.

Do you feel your learning in FILA helps you in work? How?

FILA helped me to build foundational skills such as critical and analytical thinking that support me to succeed academically and professionally. Most importantly, during my studies at FILA, I acquired a deeper sense of purpose that guides me through my postgraduate studies and professional career. 

What is your goal?

One of my goals is to become a capable leader that can practically support social justice in my community and in the world. 

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