In my personal life, I am inspired by travel and the learning that happens when authentically and respectfully immersing myself in another place and culture. I bring many aspects of myself to my practice, including being a bilingual, mixed-race son of immigrant parents. I also bring to my practice my penchant for voice-acting, singing, and playing guitar. I believe one of my strengths is connecting with people, no matter their background. In work and in life, I seek connection and understanding before anything. I love working with the little ones because I find their lack of preconceived notions refreshing and their imaginations truly unique and powerful. I love to play, and kids are experts at this age.

Regarding pedagogy, I am professionally inspired by the words of Loris Malaguzzi and his perspective on teaching as less of an imparting of knowledge and more of a walk in a vast forest, guiding children through mutually unknown territory. In that way, I see myself as a field guide who helps children steer their own ship. I facilitate the children’s journey through themselves and find connections to the world around them–with a bit of humor, of course. Knowing the world will be their own someday, my job is to ensure emotional and physical safety (with some tips and tricks) while also experiencing with them the wonders and mysteries of the world.