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Some experiences profoundly transform the way we see the world, our profession, and even ourselves. Participating in the Strategic Management and Intellectual Property Rights Program (SMIPRP) at Aoyama Gakuin University was exactly that kind of experience for me: a journey that helped me grow in every aspect and marked a turning point in both my personal and professional life. For providing me with such a transformative experience, I would like to express my deepest gratitude to the Government of Japan, the World Customs Organization (WCO), Aoyama Gakuin University, and the caring and dedicated SMIPRP staff for their support, commitment, and academic excellence throughout this remarkable journey. I would also like to sincerely thank the Receita Federal do Brasil for the trust and investment placed in me to participate in this unique opportunity. My experience in Japan was truly life-changing. Beyond strengthening my technical knowledge in strategic management, customs matters, and intellectual property rights, the program significantly enhanced my leadership skills, adaptability, and ability to work in multicultural environments. Living and interacting daily with colleagues from different countries and cultures broadened my worldview and strengthened my ability to build bridges, engage in dialogue, and cooperate in complex international settings. After returning to Brazil, equipped with these new skills and perspectives, I began working in the coordination of border operations and trade facilitation initiatives within Mercosur, in an equally multinational and challenging environment. In many ways, this role was directly influenced by the experience I had in Japan. The strategic mindset, discipline, innovative thinking, and intercultural understanding developed during the SMIPRP became essential tools for overcoming institutional challenges and contributing to meaningful progress within my organization, my country, and the South American region. More than an academic program, living in Japan was a life lesson. Experiencing Japanese culture and its values of respect, commitment, organization, and social harmony left a deep impact on the way I think and act. I carry with me unforgettable memories, valuable friendships, and a lasting sense of gratitude for everything I experienced in that extraordinary country. Japan now holds a very special place in my heart. I sincerely hope to return one day to reconnect with the friends I left behind and relive, even for a moment, the feeling of being in that incredible country that taught me so much. I will remain forever grateful for everything I gained through this enriching and unforgettable experience. To everyone considering applying for the SMIPRP, I strongly encourage you to embrace this opportunity with enthusiasm, dedication, and an open mind. Be ready not only to study, but also to learn from different cultures, perspectives, and experiences. I can confidently say that this program has the power to transform lives. Just as it transformed mine, I truly believe that everyone who experiences this journey will return home as a better professional, a better leader, and a better person.
Some experiences change not only our careers, but also the way we see the world. For me, that experience began at Aoyama Gakuin University as a participant of the Strategic Management and Intellectual Property Rights Program (SMIPRP). It was a great honor to become the first Customs officer from Kazakhstan selected for this prestigious programme under the sponsorship of the World Customs Organization (WCO) and the Government of Japan. More than an academic opportunity, it became one of the most meaningful professional and personal experiences of my life. Studying at AGU gave me much more than knowledge from textbooks. It combined strategic management, leadership, Customs administration, and Intellectual Property Rights in a practical and modern way. Through lectures, case studies, research activities, and field visits, I gained a deeper understanding of global trade, modern Customs challenges, and international cooperation. One of the most valuable parts of the programme was learning from distinguished professors, experienced practitioners, and experts from Japan Customs. Their guidance and practical insights created an inspiring learning environment and helped us connect theory with real-world Customs operations. Living and studying in Tokyo was also an unforgettable experience. I was deeply impressed by Japanese professionalism, discipline, punctuality, and respect for others. These values influenced both my professional and personal outlook. Another special part of SMIPRP was its multicultural environment. Studying alongside Customs officers from many countries allowed us to exchange experiences, learn from one another, and build lasting friendships and professional networks. It reminded me that despite different backgrounds, we all share the same goal of improving Customs administration and supporting international trade. The impact of SMIPRP continued after graduation. After completing the Master’s programme, I was honored to be selected for the World Customs Organization Career Development Programme. I strongly believe that the knowledge, analytical skills, and international exposure I gained at AGU played an important role in this achievement. The programme strengthened my confidence and prepared me for greater responsibilities within the international Customs community. I am sincerely grateful to Aoyama Gakuin University, the SMIPRP faculty and coordinators, the World Customs Organization, the Government of Japan, and my Customs administration in Kazakhstan for their trust and support. The experience and knowledge I gained through SMIPRP continue to inspire me in my professional career and motivate me to contribute to the modernization of Customs administration in Kazakhstan. I will always remain proud to be part of the SMIPRP Alumni community and thankful for the unforgettable journey at Aoyama Gakuin University.
Societal expectations for customs administrations today go beyond mere revenue collection. Broadly speaking, customs administrations are required to strike a delicate yet often conflicting balance among trade facilitation, revenue generation, and the protection of society. In my personal experience, the Strategic Management and Intellectual Property Rights Program (SMIPRP) equips aspiring young managers with the knowledge to navigate the complexities of managing a modern customs administration. If you were lucky enough to be selected, you would study a curriculum that encompasses management, customs competencies, and Intellectual Property Rights (IPR). You would be taught by seasoned academics, officers from the Japan Customs, and industry experts in the field of IPR. The lectures are interactive, and insights shared by classmates reflect perspectives from other customs administrations; I found these invaluable. The program also includes field trips to the Japan Customs offices and other relevant institutions to put lecture concepts into practice and deepen understanding. The visit to the Japan Customs offices was particularly instructive, as we witnessed the good practices of such a professional and efficient customs administration. A dedicated study room for SMIPRP scholars, excellent facilities such as the library and lecture rooms, helpful lecturers and SMIPRP staff, and the college's ambience all contribute to a wonderful learning experience. However, this program tests you mentally and stretches your time management skills. In this cycle, there would be little wins and frustrations, but the price is worth it, a Master's of Arts degree in Business Administration with a specialty in strategic management and intellectual property rights from a renowned and respected University. It was challenging to manage life away from family, acclimate to a new society, and meet the academic demands of the program. For me, the empathy and friendship of my classmates, nine of the most amazing customs officers from around the world, were essential. The unwavering support from the SMIPRP Administration office, introductory lectures on Japanese etiquette, and the weekly Japanese language class greatly helped me in integrating into the local community. Perhaps the most alluring aspect of this program is the opportunity to experience Japan. It does not matter how many great things you have heard; Japan will amaze you. The people, the lifestyle, the food, and the unique blend of modern technology and traditional culture/values. Japan has left an impression on me with beautiful memories for a lifetime. I learnt a little late that 1 year in the SMIPRP is a very short time, but it was a life-altering experience for which I am eternally grateful to the Japanese Ministry of Finance, the World Customs Organization, and the Nigeria Customs Service.
Working as a customs official stationed at a border post and interacting daily with clients from different countries made me even more curious about what lies beyond Namibia’s borders. When the opportunity arose to apply for a one-year master’s programme at one of Japan’s prominent universities, I could not pass it up. What started as a dream to visit one of my favourite Asian countries finally became a reality. I could hardly believe that I would be travelling to Japan. Crossing borders and oceans to reach this beautiful island nation felt surreal. It was truly a blessing, and I will forever be grateful to the Japanese Government and the World Customs Organization for this life-changing opportunity. This experience has had a profound impact on my life and left an everlasting impression that will never be forgotten. The course itself provided me with valuable knowledge and understanding that I will carry with me forever. I particularly enjoyed the Competitive Strategy and IPR Border Enforcement courses. The interaction with the professors and their teaching style was exceptional. The integration of theory with practical application made it much easier to understand how to utilise the newly acquired knowledge in real-life scenarios. Visits to KERING, Canon, the IP High Court, the Supreme Court, and Moji Customs were among the highlights of my time as an SMIPRP student and remain unforgettable experiences. The staff at Aoyama Gakuin were outstanding — professional, supportive, and always willing to assist during my stay in Japan. I also made lifelong friendships with my fellow scholars and established valuable professional connections with the staff of SMIPRP. Apart from the academic experience, I had the opportunity to explore Japan through its incredible food and breathtaking scenery. Returning one day as a visitor is something I look forward to. To future SMIPRP beneficiaries, I encourage you to grab this opportunity with both hands. Learn, explore, grow, and fully enjoy every moment of this remarkable experience.
