Yukiko currently serves as the principal of AIC International School in Hiroshima and also works with the Tokyo Metropolitan Headquarters as a Committee Member and Liaison for Child-Oriented Policies, a responsibility she fulfills in addition to her primary role.

Before stepping into her current roles, Yukiko dedicated herself to developing her skills in administration and education as the Headmistress of Tokyo West International School in Hachioji, Tokyo, from April 2019 to March 2024. This period was essential in preparing her for her current challenges.

Yukiko’s journey in the educational field began with a meaningful 15-year stint as Department Lead at The Nueva School in Hillsborough, California. There, she contributed significantly beyond teaching, collaborating closely with the institution's founders – Janice, Elizabeth, Rush, and Nick from IFSEL. During her time there, she was instrumental in developing the Japanese language program for the school’s middle school students and led the establishment of a valuable exchange program with a school in Kyoto, Japan, helping to broaden the horizons of her students.

Additionally, Yukiko has committed herself to personal and professional growth by training as a Social Emotional Learning (SEL) Practitioner, reinforcing her dedication to nurturing the well-rounded development of students.

Yukiko’s approach to leadership in education is rooted in a belief in the transformative potential of integrating SEL into the curriculum, particularly for gifted students in Japan. Understanding the unique challenges faced by these students, she is a proponent of SEL, emphasizing its importance in supporting both their intellectual achievements and emotional health. Through her efforts, Yukiko hopes to make SEL an essential part of education for gifted students, aiming to create a nurturing environment that supports their development in every aspect of their lives.