“Your child is your direction in life”

The fundamental routine of mothers in Japan is just the same with any other cultures, to maintain a warm and efficient household for everyone in the family. This alone is a huge responsibility alongside the demands of the children,  creating a good home for the family, and dealing with pressure from society. 

However, around 76% mothers in Japan are also working at the same time to provide for the household necessities.

Michelle Gatus, a foreigner in Aichi ken, experienced firsthand the ups and downs of motherhood while being part of the workforce. She worked as a former JRF (Japan Remit Finance) staff in Toyota branch for almost 4 years.

She was greatly competent with her career while being a proactive mom to her son Marco.  

Michelle was so kind and generous to share some of her experiences and insights as a working mom in Japan. 

 1.Whats the biggest challenge as working mother in Japan?   

“For the first quarter in our stay in Japan, we had major adjustments due to my child`s asthma. We can barely sleep at night, yet we had to prepare early in the morning for school stuff. Rain or shine, I had to bring him to school and fetch him right after my work. He was still 2 years old during that time, and I used to take him everywhere I go.”

2. What are your tips/advice to your fellow working mothers in Japan?

“My tip for my fellow mothers in Japan is to always prioritize your child`s needs and you will never go wrong in life. Your child will make you learn more in life. Your child is your direction in life. “

 3.How did JRF help you in supporting your family?  

“JRF never failed to help me especially to the needs of my family in the Philippines. The company also helped me to earn money and save up for future needs and in case of emergency.”