Tech leader, angel investor, best-selling author, and noted public speaker on technology‑powered industry transformation: meet Rika Nakazawa, the woman shaping our future. Recognized by the Channel Co’s CRN network for her dynamic contributions, she is the quintessence of innovation and a beacon of inspiration for all women in the tech sphere.
From Princeton to Powerhouse
Rika Nakazawa, fluent in Japanese, German, and English, was raised in Japan before moving to the U.S.A. to attend Princeton University. Now, she resides in Austin, Texas, leading the charge for intelligent ecosystems as part of NTT’s New Ventures and Innovation team by leveraging emerging technologies like 5G, Edge Computing, AI and IoT. In her additional role as Head of Sustainability for Americas at NTT, Rika drives NTT’s sustainability ambition in operations while orchestrating the go‑to‑market for NTT’s climate‑positive solutions across their portfolio of digital infrastructure solutions.
Her illustrious career has seen her serve in various senior roles with Fortune 500 companies like Accenture, NVIDIA, Capgemini and Sony. She has contributed her expansive knowledge to Silicon Valley startups, has served on numerous boards, and currently chairs the board at STRIDES AI, a venture focused on accelerating diversity in senior corporate leadership.
The Vision for the Future
When asked about significant trends to expect in the next decade, Rika highlights the interplay between AI and Organic Intelligence, particularly as it relates to collaboratively addressing the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). “Space Economy and Blue Economy are new frontiers where we will get to harness new science and possibilities,” she says, emphasizing her excitement about these emerging fields. Rika’s belief in technology’s transformative power extends to Marc Andreesen’s famous saying, “Software is eating the world.” Rika expands upon this, hypothesizing that with AI, perhaps we will one day say: “AI is recreating our world.”
Paving the Path for Women
While Rika has undoubtedly accomplished a great deal, it hasn’t been without obstacles, especially as a woman in the tech industry. When asked about the most critical issue facing women in her industry, she pointed to unconscious bias and male‑female dynamics rooted in deep‑rooted cultural mores. “They can be addressed by patience (as this will take time), focus and commitment to both making change today and inspiring the next generation of women and men,” she argues. Her advice to other women paving their way in their respective fields is profoundly simple yet powerful: “What you believe will determine the shape that emerges from the rock that you chisel.” Her words are an ode to the original quote from Michelangelo: “I saw the angel in the marble and carved until I set him free.”
Redefining Intelligence in Tech
One of Rika’s most recent thought leadership focuses is the concept of “Organic Intelligence™” as a counterpoint to “Artificial Intelligence.” This innovative notion challenges the conventional view of the digital realm as a sphere separate from our physical world. “Organic Intelligence represents the possibilities when digital and physical realms converge to drive symbiotic transformations in business, politics, and society,” Rika elucidates.
A Journey Towards Growth and Impact
Rika is more than just her impressive career portfolio; she exemplifies the power of perseverance, innovation and the potential of technology to shape the future. Her journey is not defined merely by her achievements but by her growth, contribution and impact. “Do not lose sight of the bigger purpose and possibilities, no matter what the obstacles and distractions get in the way,” she advises. “Continue tuning into the greater energy and music of the universe that still needs to be amplified and channelled.”
In her promotion of “Organic Intelligence”, Rika advocates the exploration of intelligence in the natural world, which offers untapped reservoirs of knowledge that can guide us to address the world’s most pressing challenges. Her vision, determination and boundless drive for innovation make it certain that Rika’s footprints will be seen all over the world of technology – and beyond. As we look toward the future, we eagerly anticipate the ways in which she and others like her will continue to shape our world for the better.
