NCI Class 5

Education Coordinator- Japanese American National Museum

NCI fostered that inclination I had to work in the community and turned it into my career and passion.  It literally set me up with my first real job at the Japanese American National Museum, my former intern site.  More importantly though, it instilled the desire to contribute to the community I had come to intimately know through NCI.  The program also introduced me to others who shared my commitment.  Together, with individuals from varying NCI classes, we formed Little Tokyo Roots, a group of young adults dedicated to educating, advocating and participating in Little Tokyo.  We've hosted fundraiser events benefiting the various organizations in the community as well as taken on campaigns to spread awareness about Little Tokyo issues like public transportation proposals.  NCI gave me the confidence and investment to feel like I knew and could represent our community, leading me to be a part of the 2010 Nisei Week court.  I am really grateful to NCI for cultivating a mere interest and turning it into something I really care about.