In our weekly #TogetherTuesday serial, we\u2019ve been connecting with our people, across 30 countries, bringing them together, staying engaged and supporting our Abdul Latif Jameel community during this unusual time.<\/p>\n
We\u2019ve been sharing insights into our own remote working experiences, and the actions we are taking to stay healthy, well and safe at home.<\/p>\n
This week, we meet Toshiaki Sakai, General Manager, Marketing, Planning and Operations Support at Abdul Latif Jameel Motors International \u2013 and lead singer of the Dubai-based band \u2018The Deserts\u2019. \u00a0With a keen interest in music and performing for over three decades, Sakai-san has been using his musical talent to lift the spirits of his network, including his colleagues at Abdul Latif Jameel.<\/p>\n
Taking the traditional Japanese song, Sakura<\/em>, a song commemorating the country\u2019s famous Cherry Blossom season, Toshiaki has prepared a bespoke composition, appropriate to these times of uncertainty and remote working. The song is intended to send a message of togetherness and hope to our community \u2013 and encouragement to look ahead to brighter days.<\/p>\n \u201cI\u2019ve always believed that music has the power to create a sense of belonging and participation\u2013 and this is really standing true in these times of physical disconnection. When the lockdown first began here in Dubai, I felt anxious that my world had suddenly become so much smaller. \u00a0Then, I realized, that with the technology available, geographical isolation doesn\u2019t have to result in social isolation. <\/em><\/p>\n By singing with my family every day, performing online rehearsals with the other members of my band, and even hosting concerts and creating music videos via videoconference with my friends and colleagues \u2013 I strangely feel more connected than ever! <\/em><\/p>\n We may be apart, for now; but music is bringing us together!\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n