Late last year, Izumi Ekuni returned to visit Lauriston for the first time in 25 years. She didn't think it would take this long and highly recommends that every Old Lauristonian returns to school for a visit while they can. Izumi was thrilled to receive a very warm welcome.

Izumi came from Japan when she was in Year 10. She recalls the delicious hot sandwiches and the delightful hot chocolates from the canteen, and she said that her days at Lauriston have had a huge impact on her life. She took two art classes, Art and Graphics (thankful that she wasn’t required to speak perfect English!), and art has continued to be a part of her life ever since. She studied art history a little in university and then worked in a gallery afterwards. Izumi returned to Japan to continue her studies at university and majored in French literature. The reason was that she loved the French accent of the French teacher at Lauriston. She went on to study in France while she was in a college.

Izumi is currently helping her parents’ restaurant. It serves traditional Japanese cuisine, and she is in charge of customer service, wine selection, etc. She is proud to mainly stock Australian and French wines which she loves. The restaurant is located about 30 minutes from Tokyo.  Izumi has offered an open invitation to all Old Lauristonians who are ever in Japan, to please come and visit.  Through connections made via the OLA, we can certainly put you in touch with Izumi.