I was born Bakary Ramatou O.I., but I now go by 安里バカリ (Asato Bakary) after taking my husband’s name. Bilma is the stage name I used during my modeling career in Benin. My close friends call me Bilma, and I’ve started introducing myself as such in Japan since my full name can be quite long and challenging for locals to pronounce.

I’m an anime lover, especially  One Piece and JoJo's Bizarre Adventure—but don’t worry, I’m not an extreme fan (you can relax). I love nature and often go hiking or run errands around the city.

I came to Japan through a one-year exchange program with Kyoritsu Women's University—God bless that university. I went through a LOT with the NPO that helped me learn Japanese before I arrived (I'll share the full story with you later). Despite those challenges, I decided to extend my stay here. After graduating, I quickly dove into the Japanese workforce.

Why Oyemi?

I used to be approached by foreigners facing challenges in navigating daily life here in Japan, and I often assisted as a volunteer. Helping others also gave me a chance to practice my English when working with English speakers.

Through these experiences, I realized that although there are numerous agencies, online forums, and social media groups offering advice, very few provide personalized, one-on-one support. Living in Japan can be stressful—only tourists or newcomers may feel otherwise at first. But as the saying goes, "When you know, you know." Foreigners here need help alleviating stress so they can fully appreciate the wonderful opportunity of living in Japan.

That’s why I created Oyemi—to assist and support fellow foreigners as much as possible. Come as you are, and let’s work through it together.

We also offer French lessons, not only to Japanese locals but to any foreigners interested in learning or mastering their French skills.

By the way, "Oyemi" means “it suits me” in Yoruba, my mother tongue.

Register on our website if you’re interested in learning more about us and the services we offer.

One of my close friends, “Til”, always says my life is like a novel. Trust me—you’re not alone. We’ve all been through a LOT. What’s important isn’t just going through the drama, but learning from it, improving yourself, and, most importantly, knowing how to navigate situations that are beyond your control.