Contributors

Knowledge Kapamilya Cohort of 2026

Kiara Dela Cruz

My name is Kiara Dela Cruz, and I'm a first year undergraduate student intending to study in Molecular, Cellular, and Development Biology! A few of my favorites are Sprite, Smiskis, and Spirited Away. I'm originally from Casa Grande, Arizona! Growing up, I depended on our town's blossoming Filipino community to stay connected to my heritage. I was able to learn about our traditional foods, some dances, and how important companionship was. Despite this, I always felt like I was still unaware about the deep history of the Philippines and Filipino people. That's exactly why I chose to join Knowledge Kapamilya! This program has allowed me to explore the roots of our culture and reflect on my personal connections to our history. I've gained a lot through this experience, and am excited to show you my final project!

Lanna Park

I am a graduating senior studying History and Anthropology. My experiences being a part of the Filipino and Korean diaspora, guide my particular interests in my studies.

Charisse Vales

Charisse Vales (she/her) is a third-year undergraduate student studying Political Science and Anthropology at the University of Washington. Since learning deeper pockets of her family's migration story out of the Philippines in high school, she has focused her research inside of collections and in cultural advocacy work to connect broader scopes of people's personal stories into broader histories. Recognizing the power of storytelling through Filipino folk dance, illustration, and writings, she continues on her past projects in Knowledge Kapamilya tailored to archives and the layered stakes of personal and political sentiments to make sense of material culture. Like a puzzle, all pieces can be tools for weaving a social fabric with intention and constant learning.