From Form 4 to Japan: A story of belief, setbacks, and transformation | Abongkechu Gaelle

Open Dreams
Jul 20
2 min read

日本語は下にあります(Japanese's below)

Back in Form 4, I overheard a few senior students discussing something unusual — the idea of studying abroad. I had no smartphones or photos to prove it. Just their voices and a dream. I didn’t fully understand it at the time, but something about that moment stuck with me. It was the first time I imagined a future that extended beyond the classroom I was sitting in.

Years later, in high school, I met Caleb Ndikaa who gave that dream structure. He introduced me to Open Dreams , a nonprofit that supports students in pursuing international education. He said, “If you want a real shot, focus on your A-Levels and aim high.” That advice changed everything. I worked hard, got the grades, and joined Open Dreams — where I met some of the brightest minds in Cameroon. I listened to their stories, their struggles, their breakthroughs. It gave me hope that I too could take that leap.

But things didn’t go exactly as planned. I faced setbacks. Some opportunities I was counting on didn’t materialize. It was a difficult period — filled with doubt and frustration. But I kept preparing. I kept building. And eventually, a new door opened — not the one I was expecting, but one that led me to Japan.

I began at Meros Language School , where I started learning Japanese from scratch while adjusting to a completely new culture and work environment. Today, I’m pursuing Business Management at TBL - Tokyo Business and Language College , while also developing two projects close to my heart:

TrackRight: a digital tool to improve stock tracking and logistics coordination for businesses in Cameroon

JBridge: a student support platform to help international students navigate their first steps in Japan

I’m currently preparing for the JLPT N2 and Boki Level 3 certifications, and I continue to balance study, part-time work, and personal growth.

Reflecting on this journey, I’ve learned that success doesn’t always follow a straight path. Sometimes, the detours teach you the most. To students and young professionals still searching for direction: don’t give up if your first plan doesn’t work. Keep learning. Stay open. And be ready when the next opportunity appears.

To Open Dreams, my mentors, and everyone who believed in me — thank you.

The journey is still unfolding.