Our Team

Inspired by Passion

cEO & Founder

I’M CHRISTOPHER Appaw.

I am a professional teacher from Ghana, who moved to Japan and successfully mastered the Japanese language. My journey of learning, adapting, and building a career in Japan now drives my passion to help others do the same.

As CEO and Head of Training at Chris Language Academy, I bring a strong blend of educational expertise and cultural experience. I lead curriculum development, train instructors, and mentor students preparing for JLPT exams and careers in Japan.

Together with my amazing team of experts, we empower learners across Africa with the skills, opportunities and confidence to succeed in Japan.

REST OF THE TEAM

At the heart of our mission is a passionate team of educators and mentors, committed to helping you succeed in both language learning and your career journey in Japan. Our instructors bring years of experience, cultural understanding, and personalized teaching to every lesson. Get to know the people guiding your path!

Akida Araida

Akira Araida

Japanese Language Expert

Passionate about Japanese literature and culture, he now supports students at CHRIS Language Academy while continuing his own language journey.

Mikako Sugawara

Mikako Sugawara

Japanese Language Expert

Trained in Japanese language education. she brings fun, culturally engaging lessons to students, with a focus on confidence and connection.

Kazumi Kawai

Kazumi Kawai

Specially Appointed Lecturer

Specially Appointed Lecturer at Chūkyūshū Junior College. Has 8+ years of Japanese teaching experience, passionate about student-centered learning.

Nami Yoko Yama

Nami Yoko Yama

Japanese Language Expert

A dedicated primary school teacher in Japan, she uses creativity and play-based learning to help young students thrive in Japanese language education.

Obeng Afari

Emmanuel Obeng Afari

IT Support Specialist

He plays the key role in maintaining our digital infrastructure through reliable technical IT Support, IT Training, Web design, development and management.

Our Four Core Team Values

Commitment

We are dedicated to every learner’s success, supporting their growth with consistency, care, and purpose.

Excellence

We strive to deliver the highest quality in teaching, mentorship, and service every class, every time.

Inclusion

We embrace diversity and create a learning environment where everyone feels respected, valued, and empowered.

Growth

We believe in continuous learning for our students and ourselves so we can all reach our fullest potential.

The Journey Begins Here

READY to make BIG
THINGS
HAPPEN?