Gapapa: Former JKT48 memeber Nakagawa Haruka talks about her 10 years

[whoinside]

The Strength and Courage "Gapapa" Gave Me

 

This is Haruka's interview about her book "Gapapa" that came out on December 20, 2016. Gapapa means "It's okay" in Indonesian.

 

――It has been about a month and a half since you graduated from the 48 groups. How have your activities been so far in 2017?

N：After the year started, I got a break and started working again at the end of January. Right now I'm guesting on talk shows and game shows in Indonesia.

 

――Are the ways you spend your time different now?

N：During the 10 years, there was always someone around me so I feel a little lonely when I'm suddenly alone after graduating. But since I have more time to myself now, I cook and study English. While there are times I think I'm not making a good use of my time, I'm still trying to figure out what I should do.

 

――What made you decide to stay in Indonesia rather than returning to Japan?

N：After joining JKT48, there were a lot of people who started to support me. I wanted to treasure the chance I received when I was given a place to work. I also feel like (Indonesia) suits me.

 

――When did you decide to graduate from the 48 groups?

N：I started thinking about it about 2 years ago. I talked to our staff about it during the 2 years and was told that "Timing is important" so I decided to graduate on my 10th year as a member of AKB48 and my 5th year as a member of JKT48.

 

――How were the 10 years you spent as a member?

N：What I realized after graduating is that I was very blessed to be working (in the 48 groups). I was able to become serious about singing and dancing, and was able to learn how to express myself after spending so much time with the members, more than my family. There were times when we fought, but being able to work as a group was a precious experience.

 

――5 years after after joining AKB48, you transferred to JKT48. That must have been a big change, what were the changes you experienced up until your graduation?

N：The difference between Japan and Indonesia was pretty big. Not only my lifestyle changed, but in the beginning, I didn't even have friends. I realized the importance of depending on people. Also, by going overseas, my "home" will change, so being away from family feels lonely, but there are a lot different emotions within me.

 

――In your book, you talk about your struggles in Japan and what you experienced in Jakarta. Was there ever a time you wanted to give up?

N：There were times when I thought about finding a different job. I wasn't satisfied with my general election results in AKB, and there were many struggles I had because I was young. Thinking back now, being able to join "Watarirouka Hashiritai" helped me gain confidence.

 

――What part of you became stronger after joining JKT48?

N：There were more situations where I had to think on my own so I learned to do a lot of things by myself. After joining JKT48, I struggled with the language, but now I am given the opportunity to be on TV a lot. Because I moved overseas, I became stronger and gained confidence.

 

――In your book you talk about how in Japan you had an "Foolish little sister" character "Harugon", but in Indonesia, you were "Haruka" and you were even the team captain. Were the changes in roles drastic?

N：I think I would have never been the captain of AKB48, so being given the chance was really big. At first I thought it would be impossible to lead everyone. But after trying it, there were many things I was able to do. Because I joined JKT48, I gained the courage and strength to challenge myself.

 

――Was there ever a time one of the AKB48 members told you you changed since joining JKT48?

N：When I returned to Japan, the members told me I became more mature. They told me, "It must be difficult to stand on a foreign stage. It's impressive that Haruka is able to do that". The members who joined at the same time as me such as Mayuyu, Aika, and Yukirin told me "Long time ago, I would've never thought you would change so much" so I was happy.

 

――You chose the Indonesian title "Gapapa" (for your book), what is your reason behind it?

N：It's the first word I learned after joining JKT48. It means "It's okay" and I used it often. There were times people said it to me when I was struggling and I also used it to cheer up the members. I chose it because it is the most important word to me.

 

――How are the reactions from your peers?

N：The members of "Watarirouka Hashiritai" told me "I read your book, it was great!".  Takamina also messaged me and I'm also happy I was able to show how much I've grown.

 

――How does it feel to record your life into one book after turning 25 on February 10?

N：This is a rare opportunity, so I'm very happy to release my own book. When I held the book in my hand it felt strange to see my name on it and I thought I had to work even harder for more people to know about it.

 

――You are finally becoming independent, do you have any plans for what you want to do?

N：I just want to try everything I can. 2018 marks the 60th year of Japan and Indonesia's diplomatic ties, so I want to become (one of the) Japanese people who can build a bridge between the two countries.

 

――Lastly, please give out a message to the readers of your book.

N：For those who read it, I want them to do what they want without overthinking it. I failed at many things after moving to Indonesia, but I also learned that it was the result of trying, so I don't feel regrets. I hope everyone can gain courage to challenge without giving up.

 

(Source)

 

In her book, she mentions "There are a lot of women and not everyone can become Maeda Atsuko, Oshima Yuko, or Watanabe Mayu. But they will definitely be able to be me. Find a place where you can shine, gain courage and take a step forward. There will be an even better future ahead of you"

[AegyoInTheDark]

[chcft34]

She's really a positive person. She lifted JKT48's mood a little bit. She worked so hard and her goodwill shows in her actions. I wish her all the best for the future.