TUJ Kyoto welcomed Dr. Andrijana Cvetkovikj former Ambassador and TUJ’s alumna. From back right to left; Professor Jay Klaphake, TUJ President and Dean Matt Wilson and Dr. Andrijana Cvetkovikj and her son.
Temple University, Japan Campus (TUJ) welcomed Dr. Andrijana Cvetkovikj to its Kyoto location on March 17th, 2026, for a special presentation as part of TUJ’s Distinguished Lecture Series. The series brings accomplished professionals—including government leaders, innovators, and industry experts—into the classroom, offering students valuable insights that connect academic learning with real-world experience.
Dr. Cvetkovikj is a former Ambassador of the Republic of Macedonia to Japan (2014–2018) and currently serve as CEO, filmmaker, entrepreneur and futurist. She is also a graduate of TUJ’s Executive MBA (EMBA) program and a recipient of the TUJ Distinguished Alumni Award.
TUJ students packed the classroom to hear from Dr. Cvetkovikj. Drawing from her diverse career spanning diplomacy, filmmaking, academia, and entrepreneurship, Dr. Cvetkovikj shared practical insights on navigating an increasingly complex and rapidly evolving world.
One of the highlights of her talk was her experience as Ambassador, where she represented her country at the highest level, including presenting her credentials at the Imperial Palace, an experience she described as “walking on a red carpet while carrying an entire nation on your shoulders.” Originally coming to Japan to pursue a doctoral degree in film, her career path later led her into diplomacy.
At the time of her appointment, Macedonia had no formal diplomatic presence in Japan. Once appointed, Dr. Cvetkovikj took the initiative to build relationships with emerging Japanese political leaders while representing her country as the youngest ambassador in Japan. Through persistence and strategic relationship-building, she contributed to the establishment of the Japanese embassy in Macedonia. Her story demonstrated to students the importance of initiative, networking, and navigating complex systems regardless of age. There are key skills for making things happen.
Following her diplomatic career, she emphasized the importance of staying grounded and connected. “After serving at the highest levels, it is important to return to the field and engage directly with people,” she noted.
Although she was initially invited to teach at TUJ, her path took an unexpected turn. After attending an Executive MBA information session out of curiosity, she chose to enroll as a student instead. This experience became a turning point, ultimately leading to her entrepreneurial career.
Throughout the lecture, she encouraged students to embrace curiosity and pursue nonlinear career paths. Rather than following a single trajectory, she emphasized the value of gaining diverse experiences and developing a broad perspective.
Addressing careers in the age of artificial intelligence, she offered a profound insight:
“In the past, we aimed to become specialists. But in the age of AI, what will matter most is judgment—the ability to connect knowledge across different fields and make decisions.”
She also shared a personal story about identity. When she first came to Japan, she tried to blend in, even going so far as to dye her blonde hair black. However, she later realized that authenticity is one’s true value. “No one is looking for someone who is trying to be someone else,” she said, encouraging students to embrace their individuality.
Her message strongly resonated with the TUJ community. Professor Jay Klaphake, who teaches leadership in the Global Leadership course at TUJ Kyoto and is the founder of TEDx Kyoto, later referenced her remarks in class, reinforcing the importance of judgment in leadership. Students are currently engaged in group work that emphasizes discussion, evaluation, and collective decision-making, and are preparing to organize a TEDx event at TUJ on April 9th, as part of their coursework.
The lecture provided students with valuable insights into career development, global perspectives, and leadership. As part of TUJ’s ongoing Distinguished Lecture Series, students regularly have opportunities to engage with global leaders and industry experts. This continued access reinforces TUJ’s commitment to preparing students for future careers and graduate studies by connecting them with influential voices and real-world ideas.
OWL RECOGNITION: Distinguished Alumni Award | Temple University, Japan Campus
