1) If you are not from Tokyo, where are you from originally and when and why did you relocate to Tokyo?
I am a Brit. [From the UK.] I travelled quite a bit and taught ESL and ended up in Iwate for 2 years, which is where I met my husband. After we spent a year in South America we both needed new jobs so we settled in Saitama, thinking this would be a good place for us both to find suitable work.
2) How long have you been a member of DigitalEve Japan?
Quite a few years, although I am not a very active member.
3) How did you find out about DigitalEve Japan and why did you decide to join?
About 5 years ago I had a bad experience with the juku I was working for. I decided that I had had enough of the ESL world and wanted to find something more suited to my background. I have a degree in Electronic Imaging and Media Communications. I didn’t know anyone in that field in Japan and thought DEJ would be a good way to network. I don’t remember how I found DEJ, probably through Google! I was also pregnant at the time so I started looking for some way to earn money whilst at home.
4) Are there any activities and resources you would like to see offered by DigitalEve Japan?
The reason I can never join lectures etc is that I have a 4 year old son and no baby sitter. My husband, like most salarymen, gets back late, and getting into Tokyo is quite a trek from where I am. I don’t know if there are others in the same boat but it would be nice to meet up with others in an informal situation where kids are welcomed too.
5) What are your interests in digital technology?
I suppose the internet is the big thing for me. Without out it I wouldn’t be able to run an online store or promote it without leaving the house. I love photography and digital imagery. My current project is creating dolls using digital technology. They then get uploaded to a site where they are printed on fabric which then I make up into kits. These new designs are aimed at boys and printed on organic fabric. There is a definite lack of cool toys for boys that are not your mainstream ‘Thomas’ or ninja-type fighting super heros. You can find them here: http://www.jojoebidesigns.com/page6.htm
6) What kind of computer do you use?
iMac G5
7) Please tell me a little bit about where you work and what your responsibilities are.
At home. I have an online store at Etsy: http://www.jojoebi.etsy.com
I am a one woman show, so I do everything myself. I also take on private commissions so it is a constant juggle with everyday life and work – but isn’t it like that for everyone? I am also a Montessori mom (Montessori is a method of teaching) and so I am always making new things for my son to work with. I sell PDF files of the things I make via Lulu.com. I really enjoy making up the cards. I can’t wait until he starts to show an interest in something new so I have an excuse to make some more cards.
8.) Do you have any favorite software programs? If so, why?
Photoshop. I use it all the time. I don’t know how I would manage without it.
9) What is your favorite computer-related activity? (for example, games, email, surfing the net, etc.) Do you have any other hobbies?
Reading blogs. I would have so much free time if I banished my blog reader.
10) What is your favorite website and why?
Hmmm, I don’t think I can pick just one. I love ETSY. It has given me the opportunity to work without teaching English and I love the whole handmade movement that is happening right now. I think most of my favourites are all ones that allow me to make cool things: Blurb for photo books, The Craft Crow is a constant inspiration for kids’ crafts, One Pretty Thing is also full of great ideas and spotlights interesting articles for my line of work. Better stop there – there are so many more.
11) Name three things you will always find near your computer.
Pen, paper, camera.