Where are you from, and what brought you to Philadelphia?

Growing up in Laoag City, Philippines, and later moving to Kodiak Island, Alaska, as a child of immigrant cannery workers, I’ve always been drawn to communities that foster connection and resilience. When I moved to Philadelphia after graduating from Cornell, I found myself missing the physical challenges of Alaska’s rugged landscape and the sense of community that defined my upbringing. CrossFit Fairmount has become one of my anchors in Philadelphia, providing not just physical training but a community that pushes me beyond perceived limitations. After spending years helping others tell their stories through filmmaking and digital storytelling across Alaska, I needed a place where I could write my own narrative of strength and perseverance.

What do you love most about CrossFit Fairmount?

What I love most about CrossFit Fairmount is how it mirrors the collaborative spirit I’ve experienced in my work with See Stories and the Philly Youth Media Collaborative. The coaches and members create an environment where everyone’s journey is valued and celebrated, regardless of background or starting point—something I’ve strived to cultivate in my own work with underrepresented communities.

What’s your favorite CrossFit movement?

My favorite movement is the clean and jerk—it demands both explosive power and precise technique, much like the balance I seek in my documentary filmmaking between raw emotional impact and technical storytelling craft.

What’s your favorite movie?
When I’m not at CFF or creating digital stories that empower communities, you might find me discussing my favorite film, Midnight Family. This documentary about a family-run private ambulance service in Mexico City resonates deeply with me—it captures the delicate balance between service to others and personal survival, themes that echo throughout my work with youth and educators. The film’s authentic portrayal of a family navigating challenges while maintaining their dignity and purpose reminds me of my own family’s journey from the Philippines to Alaska.

CrossFit has become more than just a workout—it’s become part of my identity as a storyteller, educator, and community builder who believes in breaking down barriers and creating spaces where everyone can share their strength and stories.