We were lucky to catch up with Ikumi Makino recently and have shared our conversation below.

Ikumi, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. So, naming is such a challenge. How did you come up with the name of your brand?

“AI Vibration” means that the ‘A’ stands for my mentor, Atsuko. She is the my first dance teacher, since then she is my mentor.
And the ‘I’ stands for me, Ikumi.
My philosophy is “oneness of mentor and disciple.”
The mentor-disciple relationship is lifelong. I chose “AI Vibration” to signify my desire to pass on the vibes I learned from Atsuko to the next generation.

Ikumi, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?

In April 2015, just one month before turning 30, I made the bold decision to move to California despite the objections of those around me. I wanted to challenge myself further. While attending ESL classes daily, I also took dance lessons every day.
Starting from scratch in a new environment, I felt both excited and anxious, but I supported myself by connecting with friends who were in the same situation.

Starting in the summer of 2015, I began teaching dance once a week, making a three-hour trip each way.
In 2019, I became independent, and in May 2022, I founded my own company.

I am now proud of myself for not losing a single student. I worked hard with the desire to share the joy of dance with as many children as possible. Today, I dance with about 100 children every day.

Beyond just the joy of dance and technical skills, I provide a space where children can grow, discover new aspects of themselves, and experience teamwork, friendship, and performance through dance. At the same time, we instructors are inspired by the children and grow alongside them every day.

What’s worked well for you in terms of a source for new clients?

I believe that performances are the best form of advertisement. Watching our students dance their hearts out inspires children of the same age and their parents alike. It makes them think, “I want to try it too!” or “I want my child to do it too!” After each performance, we always receive inquiries.
I believe that people’s hard work move other’s hearts.

Any advice for managing a team?

Developing good people and leaders are crucial. Instead of searching everywhere for talent, I believe in nurturing the potential of those right in front of us. This, I believe, connects to the next generation. Leaders should adopt the motto “grow with your team,” learning and improving together. Believing in the potential of others and dedicating oneself to their growth is the best way to create great leaders and strong teams.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.ai-vibration.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ai_vibration/
• Youtube: https://youtube.com/@aivibration?si=J6NsLhOd2hz_-D33