I started Brazilian Jiu Jitsu in January 2024 as a birthday gift to myself— and I haven’t looked back. I grew up watching kung fu cinema and have a deep love and admiration for martial arts, so this has been a special journey, and one I’ve always wanted to start!

A competitive hobby: I have now competed in 2 tournaments, placing 2nd in both. It’s been exciting but challenging! It’s a constant learning experience, with mostly rough days on the mat wondering: what am I doing? Matches go by so fast, and injuries are often. But, it’s all part of the journey! I’d like to compete in at least 5 competitions and place first at least once before upgrading to a blue belt.

I’ve been dying to learn mahjong and finally made a commitment to go to Mahjong Underground events (an organization that hosts matches for the community). I mustered up the courage to finally play in 2026, and have now won 3 of the 4 official games I’ve played!

It’s been such a blessing to be part of this community. There’s a rich history to the game (we play Hong Kong style) and I continue to meet inspiring people each night. I make it a goal to go twice a month, and look forward to getting better each time!

I’m always out and about! Here’s a list of my favorite events & outings in LA:

• Jazz nights at the JACCC Garden

• Black Market Flea

• The Summer Night series at the Hollywood Bowl

• WalkgoodLA

• SlowJamz

• Metro Art Jazz Night @ Union Station

• Chinatown First Fridays

• Ebony Beach Club

• Lovehour DJ Sets

• Chinese American Museum Festivals & Events

• BHERC Film Events

• LACMA Screening & Art Talk Series

• Send Noodz

• Hilltop Art Night

• Maum Market @ ROW DTLA

• Visual Communication Community Events

• Nico’s Baby Battista

• Hammer Museum Events

• Cinespia