Alesse Nunes, PhD
PhD Researcher in Happiness in Japan, TEDx Speaker, Journalist, Co-founder of LAB.happy, Mentor, and Keynote Speaker.
Alesse Nunes is a Brazilian journalist, researcher, and holds a PhD in Education from Soka University in Japan, where he has lived for several years dedicated to translating science, education, and human experience into practical ways to promote well-being, purpose, and a thriving life.
His work brings together communication, education, mental health, happiness, and social innovation.
As the founder of LAB.happy, he is dedicated to transforming science, technology, and human experiences into content, projects, and practical solutions that help people live with greater balance, purpose, and well-being.
About Alesse Nunes, PhD
Journalist, Master’s degree holder in Peace Studies, and PhD in Education and Happiness from Soka University in Tokyo.
He holds certifications in Educational Management and Leadership from the Harvard Graduate School of Education and Harvard Business School. During his doctoral studies, he researched happiness-centered education and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Founder of LAB.happy, he collaborates with the United Nations on SDG-related events and is a co-founder of Innovation for Peace.
Chapter Theme
THE SECRET TO HAPPINESS AND LONGEVITY: WHAT JAPAN TAUGHT ME ABOUT LIVING FULLY
Eight Years of Research on Well-Being and Longevity
In this chapter, Alesse Nunes shares the insights gained from eight years of experience, research, and life in Japan, revealing a transformative perspective on what it means to be happy in times of uncertainty. A journalist, researcher, and PhD in Education from Soka University, he explores how happiness-centered education and the Sustainable Development Goals can contribute to a more humane, resilient, and hopeful society.
Drawing on the Japanese concept of Seigan—an expression that can be understood as a "vow in action"—the author presents a practical philosophy capable of changing the way we respond to everyday challenges. According to this perspective, the first few minutes after a difficult event are crucial in shaping our choices, emotions, and attitudes. It is within this space between what happens and how we react that the possibility emerges to transform suffering into growth and individualism into solidarity.
Inspired by the contemporary interpretation of this concept developed by philosopher and writer Daisaku Ikeda, Alesse demonstrates that happiness is neither a passive condition nor a destination to be reached. Rather, it is a decision renewed each day through dialogue, mutual encouragement, and a commitment to the common good.
By bringing together science, education, mental health, and Eastern wisdom, this chapter offers readers profound reflections and practical tools to cultivate emotional balance, strengthen human connections, and build a longer, more meaningful, and genuinely happy life.