I lived in San Gabriel most of my life and moved to Monrovia in 2014. I have two school-aged girls, and they are why I started my business, KidZ Synergy, LLC. I write and publish picture books on self-care and self-love. I want my girls to learn that taking care of themselves is essential at a young age. They are why I write and every reason I offer STEAM Classes, tutoring, and author visits. I find that other kids and parents will benefit from my services, since my children enjoyed the projects since they were toddlers. I want the children around us to be inspired. I took an ROP Class on Childcare in high school, and I fell in love with education. The class motivated me to pursue my degrees and credentials in education, receiving an M.Ed in Early Childhood, M.Ed in Elementary Math, and a Teaching Credential along with a Director Permit. I love everything that involves education, such as the latest trend in education or seeing what other countries are doing. Aside from education, I love to travel. I like to explore and immerse myself in different cultures. I traveled to London, Scotland, Amsterdam, Germany, Paris, Italy, Cambodia, Thailand, and Japan. I have seen several National Parks, but I’d like to explore more of them with my family. On weekends, you will find my family at local parks, hiking, and dining at Old Town Monrovia.
Q: Please tell us a little bit about your family.
My husband I have two girls. I have six siblings and 15 nieces and nephews. My oldest niece is currently attending UCLA. You will find my family dining at restaurants in and around Monrovia, and yes, we are the loud crowd.
Q: Please tell us about your current, past, or future career. What do you love most about what you do?
I am the founder and CEO of KidZ Synergy, LLC. I spent twenty years in education in various roles: Teacher, Science Coordinator, Academy Coordinator, ESL Teacher, EFL Teacher, author, and now Academic Parent Coach. In my graduate program, I was challenged by my mentor to explore different pedagogies overseas and upon receiving my M.Ed, I traveled to both Japan and Hong Kong. After returning back to the states, I decided to pursue my second M.Ed in Early Childhood Education to further my understanding of the whole child and be more effective in my profession. Being an educator and Academic Parent Coach opened doors for me. I recently received a grant to further my services to families. I hope I can expand on my business and open an enrichment center for ALL families.
Q: What are a couple of your favorite restaurants in our community?
I love Mikomi, Mooyah’s, and Noodle Street.
Q: How long have you lived or worked in our community?
I’ve lived in Monrovia for nine years
Q: Who is the most interesting person you’ve met here in our community?
I know this beautiful couple, Allen and Virginia. I would love to pick their brains on the projects they were involved in during their lifetime.
Q: If you could travel anywhere in the world right now, where would it be and why?
I’d like to take a heritage trip with my family to explore our roots. My husband’s extended relatives are from Ireland, and I would like to take my children to Vietnam/Hong Kong.
Q: What is one of your favorite movies? TV shows?
We have many favorite TV Shows and Movies. I love Birdbox because the first half of the story takes place in Monrovia. As far as TV shows, we enjoy Ozark.
Q: What advice would you give to people?
“Dance like no one is watching, love like you’ve never been hurt”, and expand your horizons. The impossible is the new POSSIBLE!
Q: What is something on your bucket list?
I’ve done many things on my bucket list. At the end of my career, I would like to travel the world with my husband and open schools.
Q: What is your go to band when you can’t decide what to listen to?
Coldplay
Q: What current or former local business makes you the most nostalgic about our community?
The Monrovian
Q: If you could choose anyone that is alive today and not a relative, with whom would you love to have lunch? Why? And where locally would y’all meet for this lunch?
Taylor Swift. I would love to hear about what inspires her when writing her music.
Q: What is your favorite thing about Monrovia or something unique about our community that you like?
I love everything about this community. This place is very friendly and approachable. I love the outdoor activities my family and I can do without driving too far away.
Q: Where do you see yourself in 5 to 10 years?
In 5-10 years, I see myself pursuing a Ph.D in education and hopefully expanding on my business
Q: Even for friends or family, what is something interesting that most people don’t know about you?
I am a highly sensitive person.
Q: What is the most beautiful place you have ever been?
Italy
Q: What is your favorite month? Favorite holiday? And what is the best single day on the calendar?
I like Thanksgiving and my favorite month is November. I don’t have a single best day.
Q: What would you rate a 10 out of 10?
This city is definitely a 10 out of a 10.
Q: Who inspires you to be better?
My family
Q: What is one or two of your favorite smells?
Lavender
Q: Finally, what 3 words or phrases come to mind when you think of the word HOME?
Love, Laugh, Unity
