Meet the Team

“Uncovering lost stories, families finding their heritage, reconnecting with the land – Kansha History is building on traditions and creating a sustainable future. I love it!”

^{— Miyoka Oshima, President of Vesper Society, Advisory Committee}

“I’m hoping Kansha History will uncover the forgotten stories of how Japanese American families applied their hearts, sweat, and shovels to make California an agricultural powerhouse.

^{— Jon Funabiki, Emeritus Professor of Journalism at San Francisco State University, Advisory Committee}

^{— Glenn Tanaka, Farmer and Owner of Tanaka Farms, Advisory Committee}

^{— Jere Takahashi, retired Lecturer in Ethnic Studies at UC Berkeley, Author of Nisei/Sansei, Advisory Committee
— John Kawamura, Director of HealthCare Economics, UnitedHealth Group, Advisory Committee}

Amanda Mei Kim was raised on a tenant farm in Saticoy, CA. Her Japanese- and Korean American ancestors farmed and sold produce in California for over 100 years. She has a BA in American Studies from Brown University and has worked on two oral history projects. She is also an essayist and the executive director of California Foodshed Funders.

^{— Amanda Mei Kim, Lead Researcher & Project Director}

Stephanie Cheung, a minimalist experience designer with over a decade of experience from soft goods to digital products. She enjoys working for a good cause.

^{— Stephanie Cheung, Experience Designer}

I care about this project because family history is important to me. Uncovering lost legacies so descendants can reconnect with their roots is a dream come true!”

^{— Audrey Lynn Quach, Research Assistant}