Cuban-born, Houston-raised, proud Angeleno
Hi, my name is Yan!
I love coffee, a good whiskey, and a sunny day. Spanish is my first language and I say hello to every dog I see.
I was born in Santiago de Cuba. I graduated with a bachelor’s degree in public relations and a minor in psychology from the University of Texas, then made my way over to Los Angeles a week after graduation. At the actors’ union I worked on high-profile projects such as the SAG Awards and other industry events, while also developing my communications, marketing, and publicity skills.
I then went on to tackle data management, influencer marketing, and managing my first team. Before moving to Tokyo, I co-led a million-dollar project and worked on campaigns for clients such as Disney, Amazon, and HBO.
After spending a year with international leaders and completing an MBA program in Tokyo, I came back to L.A. to continue building my career. I love the work that I do and always ready to explore the art & culture around me!
International Living
In August of 2022, I moved to Tokyo, Japan to develop my cross-cultural leadership and management skills. I challenged myself to live abroad and experience the world of entertainment & media from a different perspective.
I want to lead globally one day, so getting a master’s in one of the most dynamic cities in the world was the perfect start.
WHY JAPAN
Why go all the way to Japan for an MBA? Why not London, Hong Kong, or even stay in the States?
While it was important for me to get a quality education, I prioritized the experience outside of the classroom. I have a deep love and admiration for Asian cultures, and I never got to travel abroad during my college days. It was the perfect opportunity to live out my dream of living in Tokyo.
Alongside wanting to find and celebrate more undiscovered storytellers in Japan, immerse myself in the culture, and learn about the entertainment industry in Tokyo … I also wanted to be in an international city that would challenge my way of thinking, creating, and communicating.
My year in Japan was a blessing, and a vivid memory that stays in my heart forever. It was an invaluable experience—a new city, with new faces, and new perspectives. Something I’m proud to bring to the table.
HOw I SPENT MY YEAR LIVING IN tokyo
M.B.A from GLOBIS University
Completed the accelerated management program from Japan’s largest Business School, with courses ranging from venture business planning and entrepreneurial leadership, to operations strategy and capital finance.
International Internship with Tokyoesque
Provided the London-based company with on-the-ground market research, proposed strategic changes for operations and business development, and wrote marketing articles for their content strategy and website.
Corporate Mentorship Program with Yamaha
Developed and pitched a business proposal for Yamaha’s new division, focused on market diversification and a new B2B2C service (confidential, details cannot be shared).
Attended Film Festivals, Local Movie Premieres & Networking Events
Interviewed and met Japanese performers, directors and producers at various events including the Toyko International Film Festival, and was invited to the movie premiere of NIGASA, while also learning about localization, effective messaging, and marketing for the Japanese market.