Hi there!
We are a very diverse team, both culturally and in our respective backgrounds, based in several parts of Japan.
Our story is simple: we saw a problem in the nutrient cycle, and we really wanted to fix it. So we invited farmers, customers and delivery services to join us and be part of the solution. We aim to create a world in which we are one with nature, while ensuring a convenient and healthy life for future generations.
Want to join us, too? Become Dokitomo and stay in touch!
Lena Fritzsche
Founder
When I started studying product design, I used to not be aware of my responsibility as a designer. Later, I realised I need to consider “How is something that I create going to affect the environment and the people using it?” With the environmental pollution, plastic overflow and global warming becoming more and more present, I started to dig into this topic and look for a solution I could contribute to. I came across the “cradle to cradle” design principle and school of thought. I was fascinated and convinced by this holistic approach to solving these environmental problems through a consistent circular economy approach. I hope that with my own strength and ideas, I will transform the economic system that works according to “cradle to grave” and inevitably leads to a dead end.
Sae Shinzato
Community Manager
As I grew up in Tokyo, I became concerned about the society heavily relying on mass production, mass consumption and mass disposal. I think this kind of socio-economic system undermines our consideration of others and the environment. Local communities like rural villages, on the other hand, have fascinated me a lot because they are based on social ties and local resources. I have always wanted to create a world in which humans and nature are well connected in a regenerative ecosystem. While I travelled and explored around Europe, I found amazing community gardens, organic markets and zero waste shops, and realised that there are still possibilities to have such a lifestyle even in big cities, if there are sustainable businesses to connect urban and rural areas at a local level.
Imane (Mimi) Sioud
Event & Marketing Manager
I grew up in a beautiful small town by the Mediterranean sea, so I was immersed in nature from a young age, my passion and fascination for the natural surroundings only grew bigger as I pursued a degree in environmental science, aquatic ecosystems and currently ecology and evolution. Unfortunately, knowledge and passion alone are not enough; they were not enough to save my hometown from industrialisation, and they aren’t enough elsewhere; as we are continuously exhausting resources, threatening species and destroying natural habitats. The reason is simple; there are gaps between science, governments, industries and consumers, and one way to bridge these gaps is through civic engagement, interactive learning, and creating solid relations between producers and consumers beyond “Business”. In order to convince others to care for our planet without compromising their daily necessities, we need to provide something equally convenient and mutually beneficial.
Nene Nomi
Legal Advice
Since childhood, I have loved eating and been interested in the impact of food on our health and the environment. During my high school days, I volunteered for selling products at an event where local organic farmers gathered. Seeing the consumers choosing ingredients while interacting directly with producers, I felt the importance of understanding about selecting safe & secure ingredients and the splendour of rediscovering the region’s attraction through food. On the other hand, I also became aware of excessive packaging and food waste problems in Japan through studying and travelling abroad. In particular, I pondered the latter issue by giving a research presentation on reducing food waste at home.
From the above experiences, I have come to live with an awareness of so-called “ethical consumption,” a consumption behaviour that benefits people, society, and the environment.
At 土帰doki, people of different nationalities, ages, and backgrounds interact with each other by sharing their impressions on the richness of local nature and food. I want to continue to contribute to creating opportunities for such connections to expand.
Celma Costa
Producer Responsibility
I’m a really curious person, and I guess I never outgrew that baby phase in which we experience the world through our taste-buds. I embrace it fully.
Joining doki allows me to keep exploring. I get to “eat my way” through the seasons, and so far I’ve learnt a lot about the natural cycle of food, especially what we call “waste”.
I’m here to make sure that the veggie boxes are both stimulating and sustainable. That means I’ll work hard to keep your veggies fresh and well-packaged while also keeping our resources reusable. You’ll find me folding returned paper bags, and detangling knotted strings while listening to my favourite podcasts.
I love the novelty that comes with each box. It enlivens all my senses, and I enjoy seeing the customers sharing the happiness and excitement with us!
Judah Turner
Business Strategy
I come from a family with a long history in fresh fruit and vegetables in New Zealand. My parents taught me to grow them, and to love and appreciate their natural flavours. My favourite time of the year is summer, this is largely due to the beautiful varieties of food that are in season then, which makes me super excited to eat and enjoy them each day. I joined 土帰doki to help others learn about and appreciate fresh produce, and consider the waste they can minimise through their food consumption. I also love the way Doki supports local producers, and helps subscribers find new ways to enjoy food with seasonal recipes. I’ve learnt a lot so far, and I’m excited to continue learning about food and ways to minimise waste!
Aditya Saha
Recipe consultant
Louise Thiaville
Tea Coordinator
