I'm a documentary photographer and independent photojournalist, born and raised on the island of Guam, based in Laurel Hill, Florida, and currently building a body of work rooted in culture, diaspora, AAPI communities, immigration, food, and the human stories of the Florida Panhandle.
Growing up on Guam shaped not only how I see the world, but also the stories that call to me most. Being raised in a place defined by resilience, layered history, and a culture that fiercely holds its traditions close, I learned to find meaning in the quiet dignity of humble beginnings, the complexity of identity stretched across distance, and the threads of culture we carry with us wherever we go.
That foundation continues to guide my work. I'm especially drawn to AAPI-centered stories and narratives rooted in culture, lifestyle, diaspora, immigration, and food. Stories that are often undertold, yet deeply human. I believe the best documentary photography and journalism don’t just capture a moment; they create space for communities to see themselves reflected with honesty and care.
STORY FOCUS
AAPI community coverage & cultural identity
Diaspora, immigration & belonging
Food, lifestyle & living traditions
Humbled beginnings & human interest
My work lives at the intersection of image and language, always seeking the honest, unguarded moment. I’m fascinated by how communities form around shared causes or tables, and how storytelling, in any form, can be a tool for change. That instinct carries into my writing as well, precise, intentional, and grounded in what’s real. Currently pursuing a B.A. in English (Professional Writing), I bring both a trained eye and a writer’s ear to everything I do. I’m actively building my presence in the field and welcome opportunities for independent assignments, editorial collaborations, and publication partnerships across Crestview, Fort Walton Beach, Destin, Pensacola, and the greater Florida Panhandle.
Looking ahead, I’m working toward law school with the goal of practicing intellectual property law, specifically trademarks and copyright. After spending years in creative spaces myself, I know what it takes to build something original, and I hope to be the person who helps protect that creative work for others.
Outside my professional and academic life, I spend time learning how to raise awareness about congenital heart disease, exploring global nonprofits, and connecting with fellow artists and creatives. I’m also working to be more active in my community. One way I do this is by offering volunteer-based creative services open to local businesses, the city council, nonprofits, and organizations. My aim is to reduce reliance on AI-generated flyers and advertisements, and to provide thoughtful, human-made design that better reflects the spirit and needs of our local community. In my spare time, I am almost always in the kitchen. I find comfort in cooking dishes from home, recipes that are less about ingredients and more about memory. It’s my quiet way of staying close to family, even when thousands of miles and an ocean separate us.