What happens when your dream job doesn’t come, do you wait, or build your own path? From classmates to co-founders, three IUJ graduates share their rollercoaster startup journey in Japan, showing that failure, persistence, and friendship can lead to unexpected success. This is a story about risk, resilience, and rewriting your future. Pramodhya Dissanayake is a dynamic and forward-thinking entrepreneur with a passion for challenging the status quo. With a strong background in international management and business strategy, he combines academic excellence with practical experience.He earned his Bachelor's degree in International Business Management from the University of Plymouth, UK, and went on to complete his MBA at the International University of Japan (IUJ), where he was honored as the Valedictorian of his graduating class. Additionally, Pramodhya is a proud member of the Beta Gamma Sigma International Honor Society, as well as has hold key positions in student communities.As a marketing and strategic management specialist, Pramodhya has provided business consultancy services to a wide range of multinational corporations both in Sri Lanka and Japan. Currently, Pramodhya serves as the Head of Marketing and Strategy at NIMI International, a company he co-founded with a group of like-minded entrepreneurs.Zunita Ramli is the founder of Tokyo Organic, a premium skincare brand made in Japan that champions natural, vegan, and Muslim-friendly formulations. Originally from Malaysia and now based in Japan, she brings a cross-cultural perspective to ethical beauty, blending Japanese craftsmanship with global inclusivity.Zunita holds a Master’s degree in Business Administration and has over a decade of experience in branding, marketing, and international business. Her passion lies in building purpose-driven brands that empower women, support sustainability, and redefine beauty standards.In 2022, she was named one of the 10 ASEAN Fantastic Women Who Are Following Their Dreams in Japan, in recognition of her inspiring entrepreneurial journey. She is currently leading the expansion of Tokyo Organic into global markets, while advocating for inclusive, conscious business as a force for social good.Yuca is a social entrepreneur and product designer who believes that entrepreneurs with wisdom and courage are the ones who can solve various social problems in the current global situation.After working as a product designer for a cosmetics company in Tokyo, she joined the JICA volunteer program as a design expert, questioning the unequal business model of mass production led by developed countries. From that moment, she started her career contributing to international cooperation by utilizing her knowledge and working experience. Currently, she is majoring in International Social Entrepreneurship Program at International University of Japan.While seeking ethical product development as a social entrepreneur, she is also working to improve issues related to education around the world as a fellow and alumni of Teach for Japan, based on her experience working at a university in the Philippines as a JICA volunteer. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx