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I grew up in Waikele during my teenage years and owe who I am to my family. Raised by a single mom as a child, I understand the frustration of our families that work hard but still find themselves unable to afford a home or keep up with the rising cost of living. My stepfather served in the military for 30 years, and growing up I was taught the importance of looking out for our neighbors and serving our community. 

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After graduating from Mid-Pacific, I went to UH Mānoa for undergrad, grad school in public administration, and law school, receiving certificates in environmental and Native Hawaiian law. Prior to law school, I helped manage a small business and understand the challenges of tight margins, meeting client needs, and supporting workers and their families. During law school, I both worked to protect our water resources and mentored incarcerated youth.

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I then served as a felony domestic violence prosecutor handling intimate partner violence and child abuse cases before entering private civil practice. As a prosecutor, I saw how we need to improve support services to uplift survivors and how a lack of mental health and substance abuse treatment can negatively affect our entire community. 

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I returned to the public sector because I believe it is possible to create an affordable and vibrant Hawaiʻi. Prior to serving as a Honolulu Councilmember, I worked at the City's Department of Community Services, supporting housing opportunities and homeless services for families in need.​