What inspired you to pursue the path you’re on today?
I’ve always loved my teachers growing up and the world of education. I solidified my choice to pursue a career in education after being a Big Brother in the Big Brothers and Big Sisters program in high school. I had three little bros who showed me the value of supporting someone to grow. I remember one of my Little Bros shared he didn’t have friends, so we worked on that in my time with him. At the end of the school year, it was a highlight when he shared that he had made friends, one of them being me. Those small moments are what I love about education.
What advice would you give someone just starting out in your industry?
I would definitely say find time and space for self-care! Education is such an emotional job because you get connected to your students, other educators, family, etc. and you really just want people to succeed. That can get very emotional when you invest in that work. Finding a self-care activity is so crucial to keeping you afloat. Also, counseling/therapy is not a bad thing if you need it!
What local restaurant or food truck are you obsessed with right now?
I want to answer this question so I can give my friends a shout out at Moku! The mai tais there are my go-to for a celebration, stressful day, a friend catch-up, and more. If you’ve been to a happy hour with me there, you know exactly what I’m talking about. A Moku happy hour is a right of passage in building a relationship with me! Super appreciate the team there and thank you for remembering my order every time I’m there!
How do you want to make a difference in your community?
I think visibility of diverse leaders is so important. As a proud Filipino queer man with a public school education from a first generation household, showing youth that it’s possible to enter spaces of influence and power is critical. I hope that the students I work with find inspiration in seeing me as a leader and the many leaders they encounter in our work so we can continue to nurture leaders of all identities.
Who is a local mentor, friend, or role model who inspires you?
I’ve been truly so fortunate to have so many incredible women who inspire me. I’m inspired by my former teacher, Amy Rabago, who inspired me to carry authenticity and empathy as a leader; my fearless leader, Sherry Menor, who broke barriers as the first Asian American woman CEO of a state Chamber; my former boss, Keala Peters, for teaching me the importance of confidence, poise, and relationship building in the workplace; my former student, Kaya Ishimine, who I watched as her teacher grow from a freshman to now winning awards in the business community. I truly feel strong women have raised me into an incredible leader, so to that I say thank you for inspiring me if you’re reading this.
