Advocacy Through Storytelling
Below you’ll find my work “behind the camera” (aaaand maybe in front!). Art is advocacy and resilience. We know how powerful story and media are in shifting culture, but studies (Murphy et. al, 2015) have proven their lasting impact. I strive to amplify minority voices and stories, supporting projects to be inclusive and authentic from start to finish both on screen and behind the scenes. I approach projects through the foundational lens of inclusivity, where the stories can help people feel a little less alone in this wild world.
CRAZY - Official Web Series Trailer
Co-Creator | Writer | Producer | Director | Actor
CRAZY: The Digital Series is a queer, mental health, “edutainment” web series. CRAZY premiered at film festivals such as InsideOut in 2020 and Outfest LA 2022.
Mental disorders affect 1 in 3 people globally and is one of the most prevalent health care issues in today’s society, and there are still significant barriers to awareness, particularly in AAPI communities. Women and the LGBTQ population are significantly more affected as well. Thus, CRAZY was born.
The show follows two queer, Asian American/mixed Asian frenemies. They deal with heartbreak, romance, and friendship, all while grappling with all-too-relatable mental health moments and might discover they’re more alike than they think.
“The dynamics in (CRAZY) are fun between the characters and it’s a fresh, appreciated depiction of mental illness that doesn’t stigmatize but still lets you acknowledge how frustrating it can be for yourself and even the people around you, but also that it’s not a reason not to be loved either.”
Article: Outfest LA - Episodic Features We Need More of ASAP
Buzzfeed Video - Dating with Cerebral Palsy
Producer | Director | Editor
My disability advocacy work is inspired by my little brother who has cerebral palsy. When I had the opportunity to create a Buzzfeed video on the topic, I was elated. My brother, Sean, like any other guy in his 20’s wants to date and find love, but dating can become extra challenging when you have disabilities. We were able to have fun filming a video together (something my brother had wanted to do with me for ages) while sharing an experience very common amongst people with disabilities. We’ve received a lot of positive feedback and I hope this video continues to touch people and remind them that regardless of ability, we all want and deserve love.
Read more about the Case for Authentic Disability Representation in Media: and Why our Society Desperately Needs It.
Lucy & La Mer - "Blue Dress" Official Music Video.
Producer | Director
Blue Dress was a song about bisexuality and attractions to non-binary individuals by the incredible Lucy & La Mer. Featuring trans icon Gabe Dunn, in particular the story revolved around a POC gender-fluid character. This collaboration was in effort to not only highlight bi individuals, but particularly to recognize bi men and non-binary folk, who tend to face a lot of stigma in both the straight and queer communities.
Here is an interview of Lucy about the video: Refinery 29: Lucy & La Mer Blue Dress Video
Lovelane: Short Documentary (Disability Awareness)
Creator | Director | DP | Editor
Lovelane is a short documentary about a therapeutic horseback riding farm out in western Massachusetts. The horses are rescued racehorses, out of commission, that are brought to Lovelane where they work with children with various disalibilties and bring joy and greatly improve the lives of many. Lovelane is currently in the process of being submitted to festivals worldwide.