Sumitomo Pavilion Creator’s Voice Vol.8 Ikumi Koide Chief VIP Attendant
Hello from the Sumitomo Pavilion.
In this series, Sumitomo Pavilion Creators’ Voice, we introduce the voices of the creative staff who have shaped the Pavilion—its exhibits, architecture, and performances.
Each story is filled with passion for the Expo and the Pavilion, challenges overcome, and unwavering dedication.
This time, our storyteller is Ikumi Koide, Chief VIP Attendant, who is responsible for welcoming and guiding our distinguished guests and VIP visitors.
＜Profile＞
Ikumi began her career at a trading company, working in recruitment and training as part of the HR team. Later, she moved to the United States, where she worked as a Cast Member at Walt Disney World.
https://www.crop-net.co.jp/
What brought you to the Sumitomo Pavilion project?
I wanted to be part of a global event like the Expo, especially since it was being held in Osaka, a place close to my heart. I’ve always loved learning about and experiencing different cultures, so the Expo was particularly appealing to me. Growing up surrounded by nature also gave me many opportunities to connect with the natural world, which makes me very happy to now be working at the Sumitomo Pavilion—where forests, nature, and life are central themes.
Building a Harmonious Team
As Chief, I made it a priority to communicate openly and warmly with every member of the team. I joined the project about a month before opening, and one of the key challenges was figuring out how to build good relationships among people of different ages, backgrounds, and experiences.
During training, even when I didn’t always have the “right” answers myself, I kept thinking about what kind of attitude and behavior would help me not only guide the attendants but also work alongside them in a way that fostered trust, warmth, and a sense of harmony across the team.
Learning every day through open communication
To be honest, the response has been far greater than I ever imagined. In addition to the attendants, I’ve made an effort to actively communicate with everyone involved in the Pavilion—from PLANT A TREE volunteers to the security team. Exchanging ideas with so many people has given me countless opportunities to learn.
Although this Expo lasts only six months, I’ve been able to meet colleagues from many different industries and guests from all walks of life. Sometimes I’ve received critical feedback, but those experiences have taught me how important it is to be confident and firm when necessary, while also knowing when to step back, and to always respond flexibly to the moment.
Rules are, of course, essential. But I’ve learned that the ability to think, adapt, and act appropriately in the moment is equally important. Working with people from such diverse backgrounds and experiences also reminded me of how many different perspectives exist, and how important it is to keep my own view wide and open. These realizations are lessons I want to carry forward into both my work and daily life.
A message to everyone reading
I believe the Pavilion allows visitors to enjoy themselves while also realizing the importance of life and nature. In today’s fast-changing world, it isn’t always easy to stay close to nature. That’s why I think the Sumitomo Pavilion is so meaningful—it helps us reflect on the role of living things and how they connect to our daily lives.
The PLANT A TREE experience, in particular, is a wonderful opportunity to try something rare and valuable. It brings me joy to see children happily learning together, touching the soil, and experiencing something they’ll remember for years to come.
