Interview with Kawamura Hanon
We spoke with Hanon Kawamura, a young employee at Betty Smith.
Starting by sewing a pair of jeans on her own
How did you learn sewing skills after joining the company?
Kawamura (surname only)
At first, I started by getting used to simple tasks such as “sewing the fabric in a straight line,” while learning from senior colleagues.
We also had a hands-on exercise where, even before we could sew every step, we were told to “first try making a pair of jeans ourselves.” We cut the fabric by hand and learned through practice how the different pieces fit together to make a pair of jeans. I wasn't used to industrial sewing machines at first, so it was difficult, but with help from my senior colleagues, I managed to finish a pair.
I heard you were involved in clothing and textiles in high school. Was there a difference between that and making things at Betty Smith?
Kawamura
What surprised me most was the difference between household and industrial sewing machines. Betty Smith prioritizes efficiency and uses “standing sewing machines,” and I remember being surprised by the idea of sewing while standing.
Also, each step in making jeans has its own specialized sewing machine. Industrial machines are completely different in power and speed, so at first I was focused just on getting used to operating them.
When do you find your work enjoyable or rewarding?
Kawamura
I really do love sewing.
Being able to use a machine I couldn't handle before, or finishing a task that used to take two hours in one hour... I feel most rewarded when I realize my skills are improving.
I spend a lot of time training people now, but I'm also happy when I see the junior colleagues I'm teaching make progress.
Creating a workplace that brings out each person's individuality
Are there moments at work when you feel, “This is something unique to the Betty Smith factory”?
Kawamura
They assign work according to each person's strengths.
For example, they might assign a time-consuming task to someone who wants to focus quietly on one thing, while someone like me, who wants to try different kinds of work, gets to experience a variety of tasks. I think it's an environment that helps people develop their individuality.
When guiding junior colleagues as a leader, what do you pay particular attention to?
Kawamura
Adapting how I speak to each person.
Some people do better when given a time limit to help them focus, while others work more smoothly if I explain things carefully first and put them at ease.
Also, when a mistake happens, I try to explain clearly “why it's wrong.” For example, if they understand the specific reason—“If this is off by 1 mm, the fabric won't fold properly in the next step”—they can picture what comes next as they work, which helps prevent mistakes.
Have you ever felt down after making a mistake yourself?
Kawamura
Of course. More times than I can count. But one day I suddenly thought, “Even if I keep feeling down and dwelling on it, my skills won't improve.”
What's important is to reset your mindset and focus on the next task. I tell junior colleagues, “Everyone goes through this” and “That mistake will help you next time,” and I try to create an atmosphere where they can approach their work positively.
Becoming a leader who can rely on others precisely because she isn't perfect
What challenges have you faced as a leader?
Kawamura
Honestly, at first I was worried about whether I could communicate well. There was a time when I struggled with how to interact with people whose personalities were different from mine.
However, compared with the previous leader, I'm not a perfect leader. That's why, when I don't know something, I ask the staff around me, “How do you do this?” By showing that I'm willing to rely on everyone, conversations naturally increased and communication became easier.
Even veteran employees with more than 10 years of experience kindly cooperate with me without taking offense at my instructions. I think it's an environment with many kind and gentle people.
What are your goals for the future, Kawamura?
Kawamura
Someday, I want to become independent and have my own brand.
Many people at Betty Smith go independent, and the president also supports our dreams, saying, “People with goals are the ones who grow.” I believe the experience of being involved in every step here, from planning and manufacturing to sales, will definitely be useful when I become independent.
Finally, could you share a message for readers of your generation?
Kawamura
I think being involved in something you love is the greatest motivation for work.
Of course, you may have worries about work, but if you value what you love and choose a path connected to it, you'll surely be able to live true to yourself. I encourage you to explore what you love so you can enjoy your work, even just a little.
From the Writer
As the writer, I was surprised during the interview by Betty Smith's policy of actively supporting employees who want to become independent.
Working in an environment where you can be involved in every step of making jeans means there is a lot to learn and remember, and there must be challenging moments. However, I think many employees are able to approach the work enthusiastically and see the challenges as steps along the way precisely because they have the goal of becoming independent.
Even after becoming independent from Betty Smith someday, they will surely thrive in many places as contributors to the textile industry.
Kawamura supports Kurashiki's textile industry while also training the next generation of workers. I hope to continue cheering her on as she works toward her goals.
Stories of Kurashiki's Young Workers: Back Issues
Betty Smith Information
| Organization Name | Betty Smith |
|---|---|
| Industry | Jeans and casual wear planning, manufacturing, and sales |
| Representative | Oshima Yasuhiro |
| Year Established | 1962 |
| Address | 5-2-70 Kojima Shimonomachi, Kurashiki City, Okayama Prefecture |
| Contact | Please contact us using the inquiry form. https://betty.co.jp/contact2/ |
| Website | Betty Smith Website |
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