With a strong foundation in his native Japan, Yoshida embarked on a career journey that took him to Southeast Asia. After 7 years of dynamic experiences in Singapore and Thailand, his thirst for cultural experiences led him to Vietnam, where he became the Coach of Kawasaki Frontale Football School.
What is it like living abroad in Binh Duong New City (BDNC)? This interview delves into Yoshida Kentaro’s experiences and insights on settling into Vietnam and working in an educational environment.
Could you tell us a little about yourself and your journey from Japan to Vietnam?
My journey to Southeast Asia started with a desire to experience new cultures.
Singapore was fast-paced and exciting, but after a year, I craved a deeper cultural immersion. Thailand offered that. Six years there were filled with beautiful landscapes, incredible food, and the warmth of the Thai people. It felt like a true home away from home.
After gaining certain experiences in Thailand, I accepted a new job offer from Kawasaki Frontale Football School in BDNC and decided to relocate. The opportunity to be part of a new and growing community was very appealing.
What were some of the initial challenges you faced when adapting to a different culture and environment?
Arriving in Vietnam in May 2021 meant stepping into a situation unlike anything I'd experienced before. From Thailand, with its bustling life, Vietnam's response to COVID felt more adaptable. Social distancing measures were strictly enforced, and even simple tasks like grabbing a quick bite became more involved.
I was unable to go out and get food. One vivid memory is that I had to wait in line just to enter a convenience store. Despite the initial hurdles, the community spirit that emerged to keep life moving forward actually inspired me. Those early days helped me foster a stronger desire to thrive and integrate into this new life in Binh Duong.
What does a typical day look like for you?
My mornings usually start with a fresh cup of coffee and catching up on emails at the office. It's a great way to ease into the day and connect with colleagues.
After lunch, there's a shift in gears as I hop on the bus to the clubhouse. The short ride becomes a mini-break for me to enjoy the city's atmosphere.
Once at the clubhouse, the afternoon buzzes with activity. There's paperwork to be tackled, while planning the practice menu for the football school to ensure the kids have the fuel they need. My favorite part of the job is feeling the energy of the young athletes before any games. Their passion to conquer any game is definitely the most rewarding part of being a coach.
By the time the last whistle blows, the day's work is done. We then debrief the session with the team, sharing insights and planning for the next practice. Finally, I head home, carrying a mix of accomplishment and anticipation of what tomorrow will bring.
One word to describe your life in Binh Duong New City?
Connections.
It might surprise you, considering I arrived during a global pandemic. Back then, social interaction was limited and I was worried about feeling isolated in a new country. But the people here in BDNC surprised me.
There's a strong sense of community here. Even with initial restrictions, I found myself forging connections in unexpected ways. My colleagues at work were incredibly welcoming, going out of their way to help me settle in and navigate the city. Through them, I met other residents with similar interests, and soon we were exploring local activities and restaurants together.
What makes Binh Duong New City unique from other places you’ve lived?
Everything I need is within walking distance.
Unlike Singapore with a modern vibe or Thailand with cultural immersion, BDNC can perfectly balance between the two. Whether it’s my sudden craving for coffee or weekend plans to spend time with my family, BDNC offers places that satisfy all of that.
For example, my mornings often start with a jog along the new city park. It's a refreshing way to kick-off the day and a stark contrast to the bustling streets I experienced in other Asian cities. After my workout, grabbing a delicious cup of Vietnamese coffee is just a short stroll away. You can always find these charming cafes popping up all over the city, in the SORA gardens SC or Hikari.
Yet, even with all this new development, there's a focus on preserving the natural beauty of the area. The large city park I mentioned earlier is a great example of that. It feels like the city planners have a clear vision for the future, one that prioritizes both progress and sustainability.
To get the most out of living in Binh Duong New City, which activities would you recommend for new residents?
As a Japanese living abroad in BDNC, I recommend you share a meal with friends. It might sound simple, but the food here is a cultural experience in and of itself.
Beyond eating, the communal aspect of a shared meal is what truly makes it special. Coming to a new country can be daunting, but that feeling of isolation in BDNC would not last long. The shared meals, the conversations that flow, the laughter – they all create a sense of community that makes you realize you're not alone.
There are people who share your interests, who are willing to welcome you with open arms, and who are excited to lend you a helping hand in building a new life. Thanks to all the meal gatherings, I have made certain meaningful relationships around my neighborhood and I truly appreciate that.
So, for new residents, gather your friends, both old and new, head out to explore the culinary scene and savor the spirit of connection that BDNC offers.
How have you grown professionally since moving to Binh Duong New City?
Moving to BDNC has been a real turning point for my English communication skills. Sure, there are many people here who can use English, but that's just the tip of the iceberg.
Beyond these everyday interactions, working at the football school has also been a masterclass for me. My colleagues come from various backgrounds, and the children themselves are eager to learn English. It's pushed me to find creative ways to explain things simply and effectively, all while fostering a love for the language in young students.
How would you describe the business environment in Binh Duong New City?
Sure, modern facilities and infrastructure are important, but what truly surprised me is the incredible diversity of many different nationalities here. Not only Vietnamese, your colleagues and neighbors are from different cultures across the world. This creates a real collaborative buzz. It's this mix of cultures and backgrounds that leads to some truly innovative solutions.
What advice would you give to other foreigners seeking employment in Binh Duong New City?
Don’t force yourself to speak perfect English. People from all over the world work in BDNC, and the focus is on open communication and mutual respect. In fact, your unique cultural background can be a valuable asset!
More importantly, be open to new experiences. The business environment thrives on collaboration, so embrace fresh ideas and step outside your comfort zone. The international community here is welcoming, and these connections can be a great source of support as you settle in and navigate your new role. So, come with an open mind, a willingness to learn, and a desire to connect – BDNC has a lot to offer.