(part of) my story.

why.

Ever since I left my island home of Guam for upstate NY 30+ years ago, I’ve been the “only” or “one of few” at work and in my community. I went through my career and life numb to the fact that I felt alone and disconnected. As a result, I lost my ability to speak up and stand up for myself which negatively impacted my self-esteem and self-confidence. Then, one day, I (finally) signed up for a kung fu class — something I’ve always wanted to do. It was that one step that started my journey back to me, the REAL ME. The rest of the story? That’s for another day :)

I founded Rise and Make Waves to empower and support my fellow AANHPI women to rise above the challenges of their career and lives and make waves as they become the purposeful passion-filled leaders they’re meant to be. Our innate human desire is to feel like we belong. That’s why I love speaking and telling stories about my experiences so we can all rise together, make waves by challenging the status quo, and change the world one conversation at a time. I love helping women reignite the courage within so they can lead their own lives and careers with influence, impact, and integrity.

MY LIFE EXPERIENCE.

I’m a self-proclaimed multipotentialite (many different interests and creative pursuits). I’m always exploring new things which, in my opinion, gives me a unique perspective — plenty of life lessons (and it’s fun!). Back in the day, I was a lifeguard, a retail associate, and a cake decorator. I went through a divorce after 21 years of marriage (fun times, lots of experience). And, as a full-time-mom of three remarkable kids, I was a realtor, mediator, business ethics professor, STEM advocate, kettlebell and pilates trainer, and I earned my black belts in kung fu and filipino arnis. And, here I am now, a lawyer turned entrepreneur. Life experience? I’ve got a little :)