Hi! My name is Zahra Harume Masaoka - it’s great to meet you :)

I’m a Certified Professional Friendship Coach through an ICF-accredited program. I am 31 years old, and a fourth generation Japanese American based in Seattle, Washington. 

My Journey Here

I didn’t land in friendship coaching by accident. Before coaching, I did a variety of people-centered work: teaching and performing dance, choreographing local events, bartending, serving, and supporting people in different care settings. Each of those roles taught me something about community, empathy, interpersonal and group dynamics, and how to help people feel welcome and included. 

I’ve always had a natural sensitivity to relational dynamics and a high level of introspection (sometimes to a fault) in my own friendships. Over time, I noticed the growing tension between my own values and the messaging we’re subjected to when it comes to our personal relationships: to place romantic relationships at the center of our lives, and that friendships are secondary - nice to have, but not essential. I desired a more expansive idea of what a fulfilled, happy, loving life could look like, outside of what we’ve been told - one that placed equal value on friendships. I started doing my own research and stumbled upon Platonic by Dr. Marisa G. Franco (10/10 recommend). Not only was it affirming to my own values around friendship, it fanned the spark that had ignited in me and opened up a world of possibilities.

I’ve been through the messy, tender parts of friendship: drifting apart, repairing after hurt, disappointment, awkward conversations, figuring out my non-negotiable boundaries and the heartache of friendship breakups. I’ve also felt the comfort of friends showing up for me through grief and my most vulnerable challenges, the mutual commitment to celebrate each other's wins, and provide reliable support through life transitions. The excitement of creating new memories, and an environment that feels vulnerable, honest, and steady. And, the slow burn friendships that, with patience and care, create friends that feel more like family. 

Let’s face it, life can be really, really hard sometimes - but we don't have to go through it alone. Knowing that you have real and reliable friends by your side can help you endure even the most challenging moments.

Am I a perfect friend? No. But, I take my friendships seriously - I am invested, intentional, and committed, even while making mistakes along the way. I value my friendships deeply. They have ignited qualities, strengths and growing areas that I didn’t know existed. Not only have I learned more about myself and how I engage with the world around me, I have learned how to be a better person and a better friend. I am here as part guide, collaborator, and still-improving friend to walk alongside you so you don’t have to navigate this alone.

Outside of coaching, I’m a dance teacher and performer and a part-time bartender. I love cooking and eating delicious food, traveling, reading, dancing, and spending time in nature. I also love watching TV, everything from competition shows, reality TV, K-dramas, anime and my favorite comfort show of all time, The Office. Most importantly, I cherish the quality time that I spend with my friends and family.

Better friendships, more fulfillment, and a happier, healthier life.

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