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Board of Directors

Ellie Fujimoto

Executive Director

Employment: Hinode Gakuen Elementary School (Head of English）

Education:

Sophia University - MA in Linguistics (TESOL）

University of the Philippines - BA (Psychology- Communication and Media Studies)

Teaching Experience: 12 Years

Toyohashi Board of Education (ALT 6 years)

Hinode Gakuen Elementary School (NEST６years)

Email: e_fujimoto@elli-edu.com

Hi! I'm Ellie. I serve as the English Program Director at Hinode Gakuen Elementary School in Chiba, where I also teach first to sixth graders. Prior to this, I worked as an ALT for the Toyohashi Board of Education in Aichi for six years. Overall, I have over twelve years of experience teaching English in Japan. I hold an MA in TESOL from Sophia University and a BA in Psychology and Communication and Media Studies from the University of the Philippines Visayas. I have been training teachers for several years, including in the TESOL certificate program. I also engage in research, and my interest is in positive psychology in foreign language learning in young learners’ contexts.

I envision an English education in Japan where the well-being of both students and teachers is prioritized through the integration of positive language education interventions into lessons. This vision fuels my daily work and was a key reason for establishing ELLI with like-minded educators. Together, we aspire to empower teachers and students to flourish within and beyond the language classroom.

Outside of my professional life, I enjoy watching movies, series, and documentaries. I regularly visit the gym and find joy in running around the Imperial Palace. As Pawan Mishra wisely stated, “a healthy body is a platform for flourishing a healthy mind.”

Marife Carpio, PhD

Director of Professional Development

Employment: Ritsumeikan Junior and Senior High School

Education:

Osaka University - PhD and MA in Humanities (Communication and Media)

University of the Philippines (BS in Development Communication)

Work Experience:　25 Years

　Communication specialist (5 years)

University instructor (5 years)

　Part-time English Teacher (6 years)

Native English Speaking Teacher (NEST, 9 years)

Email: mdcarpio@elli-edu.com

I believe that teaching is also a process of learning, relearning, and unlearning. Every student I meet reminds me that education is a shared journey of growth, discovery, and possibility. This perspective has guided me throughout my career, beginning in the Philippines where I earned my bachelor's degree. I later worked at a research consortium and a state university, combining communication, research, and education in meaningful ways.

After moving to Japan for graduate studies, I taught part-time while completing my master’s and PhD in Humanities (major in Communication and Media) at Osaka University. These experiences allowed me to work with learners of all ages, from very young children to adults, and taught me the value of adaptability in education.

Since 2016, I have been teaching full-time at Ritsumeikan Junior and Senior High School, designing inquiry-based lessons that encourage students to think critically, communicate creatively, and connect learning to the wider world. I have also been actively involved in a professional network of English teachers in Japan, leading initiatives in teacher training, mentorship, and community building. As a founding Director of ELLI, I strive for an English education that goes beyond rote learning, creating spaces where students engage actively - questioning, collaborating, and finding their voice in English as a tool for connection and change.

When I’m not teaching, I recharge through crafting, exploring cultural traditions, café visits, short trips to local destinations, and seeking inspiration in the small details of daily life with my family — with a K-drama or two waiting in the background.

Maria Theresa Niibori

Director of Immersion Programs

Employment: Matsudo Higashi Senior High School

Education: Holy Angel University - AB English

Teaching Experience: 18 Years

Senior High School (ALT 12 years)

English Teacher in in the Phils. (6 years)

Email: mtniibori@elli-edu.com

I have dedicated my professional life to the field of education, both as a teacher and a mentor to fellow educators. With over 12 years of experience as an Assistant Language Teacher (ALT) at the senior high level, I have developed a deep passion for teaching English and helping students grow not only academically but also culturally and socially.

Before coming to Japan, I worked as an English teacher in the Philippines for six years. I also spent ten years serving as a teacher trainer, where I supported and guided fellow educators in developing effective teaching strategies and building their confidence in the classroom. I am certified in both TESOL and teacher training. These qualifications have equipped me with the tools to adapt to diverse teaching environments and meet the varying needs of students and teachers alike.

My vision as an educator is twofold: First, I aim to help students become culturally well-rounded individuals with strong communication skills. I believe that language is not only a tool for expression but also a bridge to understanding the world. Second, I am committed to assisting and supporting teachers so they can grow into confident professionals who are equipped to meet their students’ needs and inspire a lifelong love of learning.

In all that I do, I strive to create a positive impact—one that empowers both students and teachers to reach their fullest potential.

Beyond the classroom, I enjoy spending time with friends and relaxing by watching movies and dramas. These hobbies allow me to unwind and stay connected with global cultures and trends, which I often incorporate into my lessons to make learning more engaging and relatable for my students.

Sampaguita Salazar

Director of External Relations and Advocacy

Employment:

Saitama City Board of Education (ALT)

Immersion Programs Facilitator

Online English Teacher

Education:

Trinity College of Asia - BS in Business Management (BSBM)

Baptist Bible College - Bachelor in Theology (B.Th)

Work Experience:

Corporate: 23 years

Education: 19 years

Curriculum Developer, Saitama City

National President, Filipino English Teachers Association

Email: ssalazar@elli-edu.com

Hello, my name is Sampaguita Salazar, though I am often called “Bing.” I am an English Instructor with the Saitama City Board of Education and have also served as a Curriculum Developer for Saitama City, creating engaging learning materials to support students’ growth. I work as an English Camp Facilitator with ISA, providing immersive language-learning experiences, and as a TESOL Instructor, where I train and mentor future educators. I also have extensive experience as an Online Teacher, supporting learners across diverse backgrounds and age groups.

I have served as a judge in the Saitama City English Speech Contest, supporting students in showcasing their communication skills. I proudly served as the National President of the Filipino English Teachers in Japan, where I focused on training teachers and advancing professional development. I have remained an active member of the Executive Committee for over 10 years, continuing to contribute to the growth and support of educators in Japan.

I hold a Bachelor of Science in Business Management and a Bachelor in Christian Education. To further enhance my teaching expertise, I completed specialized training in Teaching English as a Foreign Language at the University of Hawaii, earned units in the TESOL Advanced Certificate for Adult Learners Program, and hold a special certificate in ESOL Exams from Cambridge University.

My vision for English education in Japan centers on global communication—placing emphasis on speaking and self-expression rather than being solely grammar-based. I believe in helping learners discover themselves through cultural diversity, while also supporting teachers in enhancing their English proficiency, teaching methods, and overall quality of instruction.

Outside of work, I enjoy traveling, which allows me to discover new perspectives and cultures firsthand, as well as playing word games to keep my mind active and sharp.

Mariz Endoh Monta

Director of Finance

Employment: Independent business owner

Education: BS in Nutrition and Dietetics, University of Santo Tomas

Work Experience

Entrepreneurship (15 years)

Training and Education (16 years)

Email: m.endoh@elli-edu.com

Hello, my name is Mariz Endoh, and I graduated from the University of Santo Tomas with a bachelor’s degree in Nutrition and Dietetics. As a licensed dietitian, I have always valued the importance of health and wellness, and this foundation has shaped the way I approach both work and life.

My professional journey has taken me across different fields. I have worked as a home-based English teacher (eikaiwa), where I learned the value of communication and the patience needed to guide learners from different backgrounds. I am also an entrepreneur, and for many years I have specialized in financial management for organizations. Through this work, I’ve gained extensive experience in budgeting, planning, and strategic financial oversight—skills that have taught me the value of accountability, sustainability, and forward-thinking leadership.

As part of ELLI, my vision for English education in Japan is to help create opportunities where learning the language becomes not just a classroom task, but a meaningful tool for building confidence, cultural connection, and personal growth. I believe English can open doors and allow learners to see themselves as part of a much larger world.

In my personal time, I find joy in thrift shopping—which has become my favorite stress reliever—as well as swimming and joining Zumba sessions. These activities keep me energized, balanced, and reminded that life, like learning, is best enjoyed with both purpose and fun.

Patricia Leonelle Badival-Yamashita

Auditor

Employment:

Iwata City Board of Education

Fukuroishi Roudousha Fukushi Center Sunlife

Education: BS in Accountancy minor in Business Management, Saint Louis University, Baguio City

Work Experience:

Accounting Professional (13 years) from Junior Accountant at PRS Inc. to Accounting Supervisor and most recently Accounting Manager at Yamashita Mold Philippines Corporation.

English Teacher for adult learners (16 years)

ALT for Iwata City Board of Education (12 years)

Email: plbyamashita@elli-edu.com

My name is Patricia Leonelle Badival-Yamashita. I have been teaching adult English conversation classes for fifteen years and serving as a public Assistant Language Teacher in Japan for twelve years, currently working with kindergarten, elementary, and junior high school students. I hold a TESOL certification and a Bachelor’s Degree in Accountancy with a minor in Business Management.

I believe in the saying that one cannot give or share what one does not have; therefore, I strive to constantly upgrade my knowledge and skills to remain effective in my field and in sharing what I know. While I recognize that my knowledge has its limits, I believe that instilling a love for learning in my students is already a meaningful achievement for any dedicated teacher.

Beyond the classroom, I have been actively involved in organizations that support Filipinos aspiring to enter the field of English education, and I also contribute to promoting Philippine culture within my community and surrounding areas. In my personal time, I enjoy reading books, traveling, and creating interactive educational materials that enrich my students' learning experience.

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