When Washington State University sophomore Nanako Irisumi participated in an international leadership council in Medellín, Colombia, she imagined something different than a thriving economy and a modern, safe environment. To her surprise, she found Colombian businesses were growing exponentially, drawing attention from markets across the world.
“Colombia is one of Latin America’s most inspiring examples of resilience, transformation, and economic progress,” she said. “I came away from the experience more open-minded, patient, and aware of biases that can affect how we see people based on gender or nationality and limit opportunities for true understanding. This experience reinforced my commitment to developing these skills so I can be a more effective and empathetic professional in the global workforce.”
Irisumi grew up in Bellevue, Washington, and is a first-generation college student of Japanese heritage. She speaks fluent Japanese and is studying international business and entrepreneurship in the Carson College of Business. She holds leadership positions in the WSU Japanese Student Association and has interned for the WSU International Center. She also is vice president of communication for the WSU International Business Club.
The CUIBE experience taught me how to collaborate effectively with people I had only just met, a skill that is essential in global business.
Nanako Irisumi, student
Washington State University
Because of her aspiration for an international business career and demonstrated leadership at WSU, Jeff Joireman, director of the Carson College International Business Institute, selected Irisumi to participate in the Consortium for Undergraduate Business Education (CUIBE) leadership council hosted by Universidad EAFIT.
“When presented with the opportunity to send a student to the CUIBE international student leadership council at Universidad EAFIT, Nanako came immediately to mind, given her focus on international business and entrepreneurship, her multifaceted leadership experience, and the positive qualities she displayed during her study abroad trip to Panama,” Joireman said. “We are thrilled she had such a transformative experience and look forward to having her share her insights with future Cougs.”
Irisumi was one of 20 U.S. students exchanging ideas and learning about international business, entrepreneurship, and social impact together with Colombian students in an immersive setting.
“The CUIBE experience taught me how to collaborate effectively with people I had only just met, a skill that is essential in global business,” she said.
Irisumi said one of the most memorable activities was LEGO® Serious Play®, in which her team used LEGO bricks to creatively solve complex communication challenges.
“We designed a school with a bridge over the ocean, symbolizing overcoming cultural and language barriers. Open windows symbolized open mindedness, transparent walls represented clear communication, and a glass entrance stood for transparency,” she said. “This activity encouraged us to express ideas freely and fostered a safe, creative environment for teamwork. I hope to see similar methods used in business courses and organizations to promote effective collaboration.”
She said teams also discussed issues in international business education, changing governmental policies and their effects on higher education, and the future of international education.
“The experience taught me how critical language is for any kind of business interaction,” Irisumi said. “I realized understanding the local language is not just helpful, it’s essential for building trust and communicating effectively with clients or partners abroad.”
In addition to her Colombia experience in June, Irisumi studied abroad through the Carson College’s new faculty-led program in Panama over spring break. She says the top three things she learned were the critical role of international logistics hubs in connecting global trade, the complex perspectives concerning the Panama Canal both domestically and internationally, and how Indigenous communities balance cultural preservation with innovation.
“The experiences I gained through a multicultural lifestyle and studying at schools in two different countries fueled my dream of preserving my Japanese culture while aspiring to work in the business field,” Irisumi said. “Long term, I hope to lead teams that help businesses grow internationally while respecting and collaborating with local cultures.”
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