Cristine Ayran holds a degree in Library and Information Science from Bulacan State University in the Philippines and has 10 years of experience working as a College Librarian and Instructor in the Hospitality and Tourism Management Program, guiding students in their academic and professional growth.

Passionate about culture and community, Cristine has led cultural events, exhibits, and guided tours, including the launch of SHINE (Sustainable Heritage Imbibing Nationalism Through Edutourism) Bulacan Projects in collaboration with Bulacan State University and the Commission on Higher Education in the Philippines. She was also awarded a scholarship through the Sustainable and Innovative Knowledge Application for Tourism (SIKAT) program, a collaboration between CHED, Universidad de Alicante in Spain, and LPU–Batangas, advancing sustainable tourism practices.

Her love for music, culture, and community continues to inspire her work at JACCC, where she welcomes guests and fosters meaningful connections.

Favorite thing about Little Tokyo: Lively mix of music, food, and community spirit.

Originally from Mexico and based in Los Angeles for 20 years, Paula has built a successful career in advertising, marketing, and visual communications. Her experience spans ad agencies, academic institutions, and government entities. With a Ph.D. in HCI Design, Paula is a published author and has spoken at international HCI conferences, enriching her expertise.

As the Director of Global Marketing at JACCC, she oversees marketing strategies, brand promotion, and public relations. Paula draws on her cultural background and diverse experiences to lead initiatives that advance organizational goals and ensure that all communications reflect the organization’s identity and values.

Favorite thing about Little Tokyo: the food!

Cristina M. Calderon, a local native with a zest for adventure, is an accomplished artist and musician who thrives in every aspect of show production. With 33 years of event planning and implementation experience and stage experience since 1987, Cristina excels in every endeavor she undertakes. A Reiki Master and facilitator of fun, she has a unique talent for making everyone feel welcome. As a published author, Cristina boasts a diverse portfolio in production, having contributed to numerous films, TV shows, and music videos.

Favorite thing about Little Tokyo: The many options for food make it great

Alan Citron began his career in journalism, spending 13 years as a reporter, columnist, and editor at The Los Angeles Times. He then transitioned into a successful second career as an Internet executive, helping to launch Ticketmaster’s digital ticketing operations, serving as the founding general manager of TMZ, and leading business strategy for Yahoo Entertainment, among other roles.

In 2015, Alan published his first novel, New Orleans, and. He also mentors start-ups through Techstars L.A. and currently serves as Director of Digital Media & PR via the Encore Fellowships program, working closely with management to ensure all channels are fully optimized.

Favorite thing about Little Tokyo: Access to Japanese food and culture

Bernell Crawford, a New York native, has called Los Angeles home for 23 years. Since 2018, he has been a pivotal member of JACCC, serving as Event Manager, Stage Manager, and Facilities Manager. His expertise includes managing the theatrical rigging system for seamless productions.

Passionate about music, Bernell also specializes in booking bands across various Los Angeles venues. He focuses on Cumbia and Salsa, bringing these vibrant genres to diverse audiences. His multifaceted skills and dedication make him an invaluable asset to the Los Angeles cultural scene.

Favorite thing about Little Tokyo: the Koyasan Buddhist Temple.

Olivia Crews is a graduate of the Florida State University Theatre and Digital Media Studies programs who uses her passion for multicultural representation in the arts to drive her work as the Production & Rentals Coordinator of the Aratani Theatre. Since moving to Los Angeles and joining the JACCC in 2022, Olivia has greatly enjoyed getting to experience an array of diverse productions. Olivia uses her innate sensitivity and knack for streamlining project operations to continue successfully bringing fruition to future impactful productions.

Favorite thing about Little Tokyo: everything kawaii & all of the boba shops! 💖🧋

Rani de Leon is a cultural programmer and DJ based in Los Angeles, with over two decades of experience in curating events that span music, film, theater, and the broader cultural arts. His work is deeply rooted in the belief that arts and culture have a transformative power to bring people together and create unifying experiences.

At JACCC, he has played a pivotal role in producing innovative programs such as Kankyō Ongaku (Environmental Music) and the Little Tokyo Garden Concerts. de Leon has also been instrumental in forming strategic partnerships to elevate JACCC’s brand and broaden its reach to new, dynamic audiences. With a forward-thinking approach to mission-driven programming, he remains open to new ways of collaborating and expanding the impact of creative happenings in LA and beyond.

He hosts a monthly show called Tizita Radio on dublab, highlighting music of nostalgia.

Favorite thing about Little Tokyo: The layers of history.

With a BA in Philosophy from UCLA and a strong background in nonprofit operations, Kim Do (she/they) brings a deep commitment to equity, clarity, and community care. As the eldest child of first-generation Vietnamese immigrants and a member of the LGBTQ+ community, she is driven by a personal mission to build inclusive, culturally grounded systems that support BIPOC and Queer communities. Her experience in donor relations, fiscal sponsorship, and program management has helped amplify underrepresented voices and strengthen grassroots initiatives across the country. With additional skills in bookkeeping, fundraising, and intercultural communication, Kim brings intentionality and heart to every project. She looks forward to continuing to support community-driven work through systems that help everyone thrive.

Favorite thing about Little Tokyo: The arts, culture, garden sanctuaries, & community

Yecenia Frausto is a Los Angeles native with a love of musical theatre. From a young age, she was interested in working in the entertainment industry, starting in school productions and eventually working behind the scenes in the makeup department for TV and Film. Her creativity doesn't stop with her makeup skills, Yecenia enrolled in The Los Angeles Film School for Digital Filmmaking. Her goal is to one day make a film of the beauty of Los Angeles and all its people. In 2022, Yecenia joined the JACCC in hopes of broadening her understanding in Japanese culture.

Favorite thing about Little Tokyo: seeing the cosplayers at anime events 🙂❤️

Margot Gallardo joined JACCC in 2024, bringing over 15 years of experience in the hospitality industry from Los Angeles. She has a strong background in managing sales, catering, and events in various establishments. Known for her dynamic approach, Margot prioritizes trustworthiness, hard work, and excellent customer service, aiming to meet client needs efficiently and foster successful partnerships. She is committed to leveraging her skills to benefit the community and JACCC's clients, striving to be an indispensable resource.

Tania Gonzalez Gomes is a skilled operations professional with a diverse background, spanning housekeeping, janitorial services, and garden maintenance. With a strong foundation in teamwork, Tania has developed a meticulous eye for detail and an unwavering commitment to excellence. Her role at JACCC includes the maintenance of the James Irvine Japanese Garden, where her precision and care have been further refined, enhancing her attention to aesthetics and the environment.

Tania's passion for food and cooking has flourished through her close collaboration with chefs, especially in mastering Japanese culinary traditions. Her enthusiasm for the culinary arts extends beyond her professional life, influencing her home cooking and broadening her culinary palate. Eager to deepen her expertise, Tania aspires to learn new skills and work alongside seasoned chefs, with the ultimate goal of becoming an integral part of JACCC's culinary community.

Edgar Guardado was born and raised in Los Angeles and studied mechanical engineering at L.A. Trade Tech College. He grew up in his family-owned construction business, where he helped his father for eight years before he started working at Gerlach Entities, where he oversaw residential buildings with over 2,000 units. He also worked at Yusen Logistics as a Facilities Supervisor and at JLL as a Senior Maintenance Technician.

In his spare time, he likes to go hiking, camping, cooking, and listening to music with his two dogs and his partner. He is passionate about implementing his creative side into his profession to live the Japanese kaizen philosophy.

Favorite thing about Little Tokyo: food and art.

Pedro Gutierrez is a versatile operations professional with a career that began in construction before expanding into housekeeping and building maintenance. His broad skill set, which includes expertise in plumbing, electrical work, and general upkeep, has made him an indispensable member of JACCC.

Pedro’s long-term goal is to continue his work at JACCC until retirement, with a dream of one day owning a farm and garden. His dedication to both his current role and future aspirations reflects his deep commitment to the center and his passion for building a sustainable, fulfilling future.

Favorite thing about Little Tokyo: all the restaurants.

With a lifetime of experience in interacting and communicating with people, Amy Honjiyo embraces new ideas and continuously learns from past experiences. Currently, Amy plays a vital role in encouraging Little Tokyo businesses and residents to collect and recycle food waste, while also promoting waste reduction and food rescue initiatives. Through weekly gatherings, Amy fosters a sense of community by valuing each individual's unique background and contributions. These gatherings celebrate the traditions of food growing, eating, and recycling, creating a deeper connection among participants and a more sustainable future for Little Tokyo.

Favorite thing about Little Tokyo: the people and their pets!

Muneyuki Chester Ikei, Teaching Artist, is a seasoned multi-national Hospitality Executive with 23+ years of experience as a General Manager and Advisor, having worked at Hotel New Otani in LA, Singapore, Nagaoka Japan, Hokuriku Gakuen Culinary Collage, and for the City of Nagaoka.

He has dedicated time to engaging with local organizations to promote Japanese culture, such as Japan Business Association, Japanese Chamber of Commerce, Japan America Society, Little Tokyo Business Association, and Little Tokyo Community Council.

He enjoys teaching to seniors the old Japanese songs and Ukulele strumming.

Favorite thing about Little Tokyo: community spirit with young leadership!

Isabelle Inoue graduated from California State University, Los Angeles in 2024 with a Bachelor's degree in Asian American Studies and an undergraduate certificate in Women's, Gender, and Sexuality Studies. A young native of Los Angeles, she is passionate about understanding and embracing the diversity and beauty of the city's many communities. In 2025, she joined the JACCC with the hope of deepening her connection to the Little Tokyo community. An avid fan of anime, video games, and her pet cat, Isabelle looks forward to honing her skills and growing alongside her colleagues at JACCC.

Favorite thing about Little Tokyo: snacks & hobby shopping options, public events

Dale Inoue Jr. began his role at JACCC in August 2017 and is currently pursuing a major in Business Management with a minor in Emergency Medical Services. A passionate fan of anime, manga, and various trading card games, Dale brings his diverse interests and enthusiasm to his work. He thrives in a collaborative environment and finds great enjoyment in working with an amazing group of people.

Favorite thing about Little Tokyo: ramen and the anime stores.

After graduating from SDSU with a degree in interior design, Shasele Jimenez embarked on a rewarding 13-year journey in the wedding and event planning industry. In 2022, Shasele took on a new challenge as the Special Events & Rentals Manager at JACCC. With a keen eye for detail and a commitment to the organization, Shasele has been instrumental in orchestrating unforgettable events, ensuring client satisfaction, and building lasting relationships. Passionate about creating memorable experiences, Shasele thrives on crafting events that leave a lasting impression on all who attend.

Favorite thing about Little Tokyo: the community's vibrant energy.

Perry Lau is a LA native who is always striving to learn and expand his horizons. With a Bachelors of Science focusing on Environmental Science and a deep love for food and community, Perry hopes to utilize his learnings and his experience to help JACCC reach new sustainable food goals.

Favorite thing about Little Tokyo: the community and the blend of old and new.

Born and raised in Southern California, Gary returned to the area in 2022, after spending almost thirty years in Hawaii. A graduate of the University of Southern California and the Kapiolani Community College Culinary Arts program, his experience in food and beverage runs the gamut of the industry. Training and progressing in the kitchen at Alan Wong’s Honolulu, he also has served as a Chef de Cuisine, Executive Chef, General Manager, Food & Beverage Director, and consultant, across a spectrum of different properties.

Garrett McCullough grew up in the High Desert and Big Bear, and moved to Los Angeles in his twenties. After spending a few years as a caregiver, he developed a passion for working in the field of recovery. He recently became certified as a Medi-Cal Peer Support Specialist and now facilitates recovery groups in the Downtown Los Angeles area. He loves living in Los Angeles and feels privileged to work in an environment where he can experience the wide variety of cultural events held at the Aratani Theatre. He especially enjoys the Taiko drum performances.

Favorite thing about Little Tokyo: The fresh snacks at Nijiya Market.

Miles Mochizuki is a financial executive and business manager with experience in public, private, government, and nonprofit sectors. Throughout his career, he has served as the chief financial officer and finance director of multiple organizations, a CPA firm owner, a consultant and business adviser, and a foreign service officer in Asia, Africa, and Washington, DC.

Miles is a certified public accountant and holds bachelor’s and master’s degrees in business from the University of Hawaii. Additionally, he studied international business at the Institute for International Studies and Training (IIST) in Fujinomiya, Japan, and foreign languages and diplomacy at the Foreign Service Institute in Arlington, Virginia.

Aric Nakamoto, a third-generation Japanese American born and raised in Los Angeles, has been an integral part of JACCC since 1995. Throughout his tenure, Aric has warmly welcomed and assisted countless organizations, events, renters, and tenants utilizing JACCC facilities. His enduring commitment and extensive experience have made him a cornerstone of the community, fostering a welcoming environment for all who engage with the JACCC.

Favorite thing about Little Tokyo: community events, cultural exhibits & performance.

A California native with roots in northern Okinawa and southern China, Allyson is passionate about finding resources that strengthen communities and elevate culture. Prior to joining JACCC, she worked at the Japanese American National Museum and Japanese Cultural Center of Hawai‘i. Allyson graduated from Claremont McKenna College and also studied at the Okinawa Prefectural University of the Arts. She now lives in Hawai‘i and each year eagerly awaits mango season.

Favorite thing about Little Tokyo: the resilience of the community.

Kevin Nam, a dedicated collector of Japanese city pop records since 2011, has cultivated a remarkable career in the food and beverage industry. His deep passion for Japanese culture and expertise in hospitality made joining JACCC in mid-2023 a natural fit. With his unique blend of cultural appreciation and professional experience, Kevin is eager to enhance the vibrant JACCC community, enriching its cultural tapestry with his creativity and dedication.

Favorite thing about Little Tokyo: the historical value - both city and personal. Everyone is connected to someone, someway!

Mary Orchard is from Burbank but has been living and working in Downtown Los Angeles for almost ten years. As an HR/Payroll professional, she feels most in her element when she's providing support and encouragement to her team. When she's not working, she can be found teaching yoga at a couple of downtown studios and she volunteers for the nonprofit Prison Yoga + Meditation, teaching yoga at the women's facility in Chino. When she's "off the mat," she can be found at concerts, Disneyland, the library, or at home making up songs for her cats. Being of service to the dynamic team at JACCC is already proving to be a great experience. She is looking forward to growing and flowing together!

Favorite thing about Little Tokyo: the walkability and the community events.

Edward Orlando is a concert and live event technician and manager. Edward holds an Associate of Science degree in Audio Engineering / Recording. Beginning in 2001, His early experience includes a tenure at The House of Blues Lake Buena Vista, FL as full-time Production Coordinator in addition to filling roles encompassing audio, lights, video, and staging. Edward came to work with the JACCC in 2009 and is both honored and pleased to serve the organization, along with the artists and community of Little Tokyo.

Favorite thing about Little Tokyo: the kind people and the breeze.

Ajamu Penn is a part of the Event Staff at JACCC, where he helps ensure guests have a smooth and welcoming experience from arrival to showtime. He provides clear guidance and strives to make every event enjoyable and accessible for all attendees. Currently a student at Los Angeles City College, Ajamu is exploring his future career path with hopes of transferring to pursue his dream. Born and raised in Japan, he moved to Los Angeles five years ago and brings valuable cross-cultural experience to his role. He is proud to use his bilingual skills in support of JACCC’s mission. Outside of work, he enjoys traveling and running.

Favorite thing about Little Tokyo: High quality Japanese services

David Profumo is a seasoned Production Manager and Stage Manager with extensive experience in producing, staging, lighting, audio, cast and crew management, and financial management for live entertainment. Most of his career has been spent operating and managing shows and events at Universal Studios Hollywood. However, he has also worked at various venues and on tours across the country. He even had the opportunity to help open Universal Studios Japan in Osaka and the new SeaWorld in Abu Dhabi.

When he’s not on campus at the JACCC, David enjoys spending time with his two daughters and cheering for his favorite local hockey team—Go Kings!

Favorite thing about Little Tokyo: the feel of my time in Osaka and the food!

Martin Renteria is a Los Angeles native with a love for stand up comedy and theater. He is currently honing his skills by continuing to train at various schools throughout Los Angeles. His goal is to become a professional voice actor. When he’s not training, usually he’s reading or perfecting his skills in Super Smash Bros. Ultimate.

Favorite thing about Little Tokyo: Mr. Ramen on 1st Street!

Maria Rodriguez is a seasoned operations professional, bringing over 15 years of experience in housekeeping and cleaning services. With a reputation for excellence, Maria has become a key figure in ensuring JACCC is maintained to the highest standards. Her role goes beyond just cleanliness—Maria’s dedication to creating a welcoming and pristine environment for both staff and visitors reflects her deep commitment to the center’s mission.

Her attention to detail and consistency have made her indispensable, as she takes great pride in upholding the beauty and integrity of JACCC. Maria’s work ethic and passion for her role ensure that the center remains a place of warmth, cleanliness, and pride every day.

Favorite thing about Little Tokyo: all the friendly people.

Stephanie Romero is a Senior Executive Assistant with over 12 years of administration experience. She has lived in Los Angeles her entire life and has a deep love for the city and its communities. Stephanie is a positive force in the workplace, using her smile, positive attitude, and energy to encourage others. She is inspired daily by her daughter and wants to pass down the importance of community to the youngest generation.

Favorite thing about Little Tokyo: the creativity in fashion and desserts!

Timothy John (TJ) Roncal offers a unique perspective and creative approach to problem-solving as a stagehand and front-of-house staff member at JACCC. His experience as a production assistant and background actor has instilled in him a strong sense of teamwork, adaptability, and attention to detail—qualities that align perfectly with JACCC's mission. Since joining in 2022, TJ has made significant contributions to executing exciting live productions at the Aratani Theater and enhancing the visitor experience, ensuring that every event is both memorable and enjoyable.

Favorite thing about Little Tokyo: The ramen! 🍜

Carolina Roque is a Los Angeles native who blends creativity with strategy as Executive Development & Marketing Director at JACCC. With a Bachelor of Liberal Arts degree specializing in Chicanx Art, her publication "Chicanx Art: Social Theories and Cultural Identities" underscores her profound grasp of culture and design, drawing life parallels with Japanese arts and culture. Since joining JACCC in 2017, Carolina's adeptness in design, project management, implementation, and organization has redefined operational standards. Fluent in English, Spanish, and conversational Japanese, Carolina's passion for espresso fuels her diligence and efficiency, positioning her as a dynamic leader in development, fundraising, and design strategy.

Favorite thing about Little Tokyo: arts, culture & community.

George Royal serves as an Operations Assistant at JACCC, where his work has deepened his appreciation for Japanese and Japanese American history. His growing knowledge has fostered a strong sense of pride in being part of this vibrant community. A food enthusiast, George especially enjoys the incredible culinary offerings in Little Tokyo, considering it one of the best food spots in Los Angeles.

Favorite thing about Little Tokyo: the community LOVE.

Celeste Shimoura Goedert holds a BA in Social Theory & Practice from the University of Michigan and has varied experience in museum administration and power building in Pan Asian American communities in the Midwest. She is the co-curator of Exiled to Motown, a community history exhibit of Japanese Americans in Detroit. As a mixed race yonsei hailing from Michigan, Celeste is excited to have the opportunity to learn more about the rich history of Little Tokyo and connect with fellow community members organizing intergenerationally for multiracial solidarity and community empowerment.

Favorite thing about Little Tokyo: the people!

Francisco Soc Sut brings more than 30 years of hands-on experience in construction, plumbing, deep cleaning, and electrical work to his role at JACCC. His expertise in building maintenance has proven invaluable, as Francisco’s ability to manage complex repairs in-house significantly reduces the center’s reliance on external contractors, saving both time and resources.

Francisco’s dedication to JACCC goes beyond his technical skills—his commitment to preserving the center’s infrastructure speaks to his deep care for its future. He hopes JACCC will secure the necessary funding to ensure its legacy is maintained for future generations, and he is proud to play a key role in that ongoing effort.

Favorite thing about Little Tokyo: working for JACCC.

Mary Turner recently relocated to Los Angeles from the East Coast to focus on digital media production and event coordination. Initially joining JACCC as a volunteer to deepen her connection with her community, she is now proud to serve as an usher at the Aratani Theatre, assisting with its diverse events. Mary is fluent in English and speaks conversational Japanese, enhancing her ability to connect with a wide range of guests. Her dedication and enthusiasm make her a valuable member of JACCC.

Favorite thing about Little Tokyo: Getting a treat from the local bakeries

Born and raised in Tokyo, Yuki Uehara's passion for music and theatre led her to Los Angeles after working for the production company KYORITZ, INC. She graduated from Cal State LA with a degree in Theatre Arts with a technical emphasis and also studied at Waseda University. The Aratani Theatre has been her creative "home base" for many years, where she has enjoyed designing lights and stage managing for numerous productions. Yuki has also toured and collaborated with artists like Rachel Rosenthal and Kosetsu Minami. In addition to her artistic pursuits, she honed her customer service skills in corporate settings at Toyota Motor Sales and All Nippon Airways. Yuki is also passionate about sustainability and is a founding member of Terra, a sustainability-focused employee resource group at Toyota headquarters.

Favorite thing about Little Tokyo: legacy and culture of this community.

Born and raised in Chicago, Illinois, Katy Williams is honored to work with JACCC, where her lifelong love of Japanese culture meets her passion for performance. Since 2022, Katy has served as the House Manager at the Aratani Theatre, implementing strategies to ensure staff are well-placed and the run of the show goes smoothly to meet the needs of clients and guests. Katy is excited to grow with JACCC, believing in the magic and bright future of the Aratani Theatre. Her dedication and enthusiasm make her an invaluable asset to the team.

Favorite thing about Little Tokyo: Sushi, Bubble Tea, Wolf & Crane, Spitz

Sophia Woodard has spent over a decade in the hospitality industry, primarily within hotels throughout Southern California. Throughout her career, Sophia has held a variety of roles across luxury and full-service properties, where she gained experience in operations, sales, and event management. She is passionate about creating memorable experiences for every guest she encounters and takes pride in building lasting relationships with clients and colleagues alike.

Favorite thing about Little Tokyo: sense of community as well as the incredible food

Patricia M. Wyatt brings more than 30 years of executive management experience in both the nonprofit and for-profit sectors, across a multitude of industries. Most recently, Pat was the founder and CEO of MayaCo & Associates, Inc., a brand and media consultancy focused on social impact. Her work for nonprofit organizations includes The Institute for the Future, Palo Alto, and the Koret Israel Economic Development Fund (KIEDF), Tel Aviv. In addition, she served as President for WorkingNation and Innovation: Africa, and also held the post of Chief Development Officer, ALSAC/St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, where she led a team of 550 individuals who together raised a record-setting $1B in one year.

Her past corporate leadership experience includes President of the Licensing and Home Entertainment companies at Twentieth Century Fox and Executive Vice President of Brand Marketing at Mattel. Pat has served on numerous boards, including Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals, Machine Project, California/International Arts Foundation, Professional Advisory Panel of the School of Integrated Media at CalArts, Digital Advisory Network at Pearson Education, and she also serves as a Mentor for The Unreasonable Group.

Favorite thing about Little Tokyo: how much the community loves to help our seniors.

With over 17 years of hospitality leadership experience, Dennis Yol specializes in creating exceptional guest experiences while driving strong financial performance. He has led food and beverage programs at renowned properties including Proper Hotel, Cara Hotel, Sunset Tower Hotel, and the Peninsula Beverly Hills.

Career highlights include launching Dahlia, a luxury lounge concept, introducing a signature afternoon tea program, and overseeing openings for high-profile venues such as Ysabel Beverly Hills. Passionate about developing teams, optimizing operations, and crafting memorable dining experiences, Dennis is dedicated to connecting people through food and culture.

In his free time, Dennis enjoys cheering on the San Francisco 49ers and exploring new wines.

Favorite thing about Little Tokyo: Exploring the Culinary & Beverage Experience

Julie Zhu is the Curatorial Manager at JACCC, bringing a rich cultural perspective shaped by her life in China, Japan, and the United States. Influenced by her family, Julie received professional training in painting and calligraphy from a young age. This diverse background fuels her creative vision and reflects her limitless potential. Julie holds a degree in Archaeology and Museology from the China Academy of Art and earned a Master of Fine Arts in Art History. Her unique blend of experiences and education enables her to curate with a deep understanding of art and culture.

Favorite thing about Little Tokyo: the interesting history hidden behind the stores.

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