As the child of immigrant parents—like many Canadians—I was given an enriching life shaped by two worlds. The duality of embracing my Japanese heritage while my upbringing in North American and Canadian culture has led me on a journey of both learning and unlearning about myself. Growing up in a small, rural town in the Rocky Mountains further deepened my appreciation for the meaning of community. It’s the connections, relationships, and trust that ultimately create better outcomes for everyone.
I am a community and social planner working at the intersection of complex social issues and collaborative problem-solving. Registered as a professional planner, I have had the opportunity to work in a number of different communities from rural, remote areas to large urban centres.
Experience
- Social Planner, City of Burnaby (2021 – Present)
- Adjunct Professor, University of British Columbia (2022-2023)
- Regional Social Planner, City of Powell River, qathet Regional District, and Tla’amin Nation (2020-2021)
- Planning Analyst, City of Victoria (2018-2019)
- Community Planner, Collaborative for Advanced Landscape Planning (2016-2018)
Education
- Master of Community and Regional Planning, University of British Columbia
- Bachelor of Science, University of British Columbia
Certifications
- Registered Professional Planner, Planning Institute of British Columbia (RPP)
- Membership of the Canadian Institute of Planning (MCIP)
Volunteering
- Co-Chair: Justice, Equity, Diversity, Decolonization & Inclusion Working Group, Planning Institute of British Columbia
- Mentor, UBC School of Community and Regional Planning
Welcome. 