Nidaime A. Nakamura, Vice Chairman

On November 2, 1996, Akira Nakamura taught his first class at Honbu. Soon after, in January of 1997, he approached Kaicho and his mother about working at the dojo later that spring after he graduated from Parson's School of Design. Although his parents were extremely delighted with their son's proposal to join the family business they expressed concern that he would be throwing away the years of hard work he had spent to earn his college degree.

Because of his love for design, earning his degree in the field of architecture is something Nidaime will always be proud of. More importantly, however, is that he gleaned from his college experience a method of thinking--a work ethic of sorts--that he felt could be applied anywhere. Putting himself at the heart of Seido alongside Kaicho seemed a very natural progression and an endeavor well worth pursuing. If there was ever a time to consider that path, it was exactly at this crossroads with graduation approaching and his future to consider.

Although Nidaime felt he wasn't very good when he first started teaching, his proficiency as an instructor, and his affinity for teaching, developed quickly. As one of Honbu's chief instructors, his classes include every level from beginner white belts to senior black belts. In addition, he conducts specialized classes for kata, kumite, conditioning and weapons. With the success of Honbu's Children's Program, and in response to the growing number of children earning their black belts, Nidaime created, and is the sole instructor of, an advanced class for Junior black belt students.

Now, thirteen years after teaching his first classes, Nidaime is admired not only for his skill and knowledge, but also for the unique sensibility he brings to the Seido organization. Having been raised in a family that embraced American culture, but which also retained a strong connection to its Japanese heritage has contributed mightily to this sensibility. Additionally, Nidaime has been greatly influenced by the examples his parents have set throughout his life. Kaicho, of course, is an exceptional leader who has had an unfaltering dedication to the vision of sharing the heart of karate with the world at large. Mrs. Nakamura played a very big part in Nidaime's childhood. Her devotion to her family has instilled an appreciation for the balancing qualities Nidaime brings to Honbu today. Says Nidaime, "Over the last 13 years, I think I've learned so much from Kaicho on how to lead and be strong, but also I've learned to combine that with my mother's strengths of compassion, humor and resourcefulness".

Nidaime's role of Vice Chairman in the World Seido Karate Organization requires an ever-growing amount of time and attention. Nidaime regularly travels to visit branches worldwide. He conducts seminars and spends considerable time working with Branch Chiefs and head instructors who oversee their own programs to ensure syllabus material & general instruction remains consistent & strong within Honbu guidelines.

As Director of Seido Karate's 30th Anniversary Celebration, SAITEN, held in 2006, Nidaime was responsible for producing the 5-day international event that brought more than 1,500 registrants and visitors to New York City. Nidaime assists Kaicho in conducting all black belt promotions held at Honbu and has conducted promotions on his own overseas. He is also involved in organizing and running many of Honbu's annual events including "Gasshuku", a special retreat held in the summer and which is--by far--his favorite event of the year.

Nidaime is married with two sons. He also shares his home with a Labrador and a Shiba Inu. His older son is currently training at home and at Honbu.

In 2008, Kaicho conferred the title of Nidaime, meaning Successor, to his son. When asked what his biggest challenge will be in this role, Nidaime replied,

"I see my role and my life in the World Seido Karate Organization as one
of not only bridging the nuances of east and west, but to also
connect the past with the future......all while staying in the present."