Contributed by Michael Neidert. Ryota Saito is an entrepreneur and member of Entrepreneurs’ Organization in Japan. He shared his experiences persisting despite disaster in a recent EO webinar about rebuilding through business. 

When Ryota Saito left his home in Tokyo on 11 March 2011, he expected a typical day as a Microsoft employee.

Instead, he found himself at the epicenter of an earthquake and tsunami. The disaster left nearly 16,000 people dead and 2,500 missing.

While Saito avoided danger that day, he saw the devastating impact firsthand and recognized the experience as his call to service. From 2011 to 2013, he worked with Microsoft to distribute PCs to hard-hit areas. He also trained community members to utilize technology as the area rebuilt.

A Direct Avenue for Making a Difference

Eventually, his contributions felt empty. His eagerness subsided as he wondered what more he could do to make a difference. This time of reflection revealed entrepreneurship to be the most direct avenue for making a difference.