Akira Saito

Education

• University: Waseda University, Faculty of Political Science and Economics Years Attended: 2013–2017 Degree: Bachelor of Journalism with a focus on Political Reporting and International Relations
• Advanced Degree: Master of Arts (MA) in Investigative Journalism, University of California, Berkeley Graduate School of Journalism (2018–2020)

Additional Training and Certifications Advanced Course:

• "Data Journalism and Open Source Investigations" by Knight Center for Journalism in the Americas (2021)
• Certification: International Investigative Reporting Fellowship, Reuters Institute (2020)
• Certification: "Digital Media and Storytelling", International Center for Journalists (ICFJ) (2019)

Languages

• Japanese (Native)
• English (Fluent)
• Mandarin (Conversational, B2)

Career History

Covering the Japanese domestic political scene, with a focus on elections, government policies, and opposition movements. Conducting investigative journalism on corporate lobbying, government transparency, and environmental policies. Writing both daily news pieces and in-depth analysis on the intersection of Japanese politics, business, and international relations.

Reporting on major political and economic developments in Japan, China, and Southeast Asia, focusing on the impacts of trade wars, political tensions, and economic reforms. Investigating cases of corporate malfeasance and environmental crimes in the region, including pollution and illegal deforestation. Covering breaking news and producing long-form articles for a global audience, contributing to international coverage of Asian markets and governments. Building networks with diplomats, politicians, and local reporters to gather exclusive information.

Leading investigations into corruption, human rights abuses, and environmental issues in Asia, with a special focus on Japan, China, and Southeast Asia. Conducting interviews with politicians, corporate insiders, and activists to reveal the hidden dynamics of major political and economic events. Writing in-depth feature stories and analysis pieces on global issues, particularly those impacting Asia-Pacific, for an international audience. Collaborating with cross-platform teams to create multimedia content, including video documentaries, data visualizations, and interactive storytelling. Applying data journalism techniques to uncover patterns in political corruption, economic inequality, and climate change across the region. Traveling frequently to report from on-the-ground locations, including conflict zones and politically unstable regions.

Professional Skills

• Investigative journalism focused on political, corporate, and environmental issues in Asia.
• Expertise in data journalism, using open-source information and research tools to uncover hidden networks and trends.
• Fluent in multimedia storytelling, including creating documentaries, podcasts, and interactive digital reports.
• Strong interviewing skills, especially in securing information from high-level government officials and corporate insiders.
• Expertise in reporting from conflict zones, including conducting dangerous and high-stakes investigative work in politically sensitive regions.

Personal Qualities

• Deeply committed to exposing injustices and holding powerful institutions accountable through fearless reporting.
• Strong analytical mindset, with the ability to decipher complex political and economic data to uncover hidden stories.
• Highly adaptable, having successfully reported in politically volatile environments across multiple Asian countries.
• Passionate about using journalism to promote transparency and human rights, with a focus on long-term, impactful investigations.
• Collaborative team player, experienced in working with multimedia teams to produce comprehensive cross-platform content.

Publications

Feature Article:

• "The Cost of Growth: How Southeast Asia’s Economic Boom is Destroying its Forests" (The New York Times, 2022).
• An investigative piece that uncovers the role of multinational corporations in illegal deforestation and the impact on local communities in Southeast Asia.

Report:

• "Japan’s Hidden Poverty: Uncovering Economic Inequality in the World’s Third-Largest Economy" (Reuters, 2019).
• An in-depth analysis of the growing economic inequality in Japan, particularly focusing on its impact on the working class and youth.

Feature Story:

• "Beijing’s Influence: How China is Reshaping Southeast Asia’s Political Landscape" (The Japan Times, 2018).
• A report on the growing political and economic influence of China in Southeast Asia, highlighting its strategic investments and their impact on local governments.

Professional Activities

• Speaker at the Global Investigative Journalism Conference (2022)
• Panelist on "Data Journalism and Corruption Investigations" at the Asia Media Summit (2021)
• Presenter at the International Journalism Festival in Perugia (2020)

Awards and Memberships

• Winner: "Best Investigative Reporting on Asia" at the Asian Journalism Awards (2022)
• Fellowship: Reuters Institute Fellowship for Investigative Journalism (2020)
• Member: International Consortium of Investigative Journalists (ICIJ)

Interests and Hobbies

• Passionate about the role of technology in modern journalism, especially in the use of data and digital tools for investigative work.
• Avid reader of political history and international relations, with a special interest in Asia’s evolving global role.
• Enjoys photography and creating visual storytelling content for personal and professional use.
• Keen traveler, exploring countries and cultures across Asia and beyond to gain a deeper understanding of their political and economic landscapes.
• A fitness enthusiast, regularly practicing martial arts and running.