Meet SJPLA’s Senior Communications Lead
Welcome to the team, Christina! What brings you to SJPLA?
An unyielding and inextinguishable hope for the future of Los Angeles where every person has the tools, resources, and support they need to be well, leading lives that are not only fulfilling and joyful, but also boundless in possibility.
What's a recent event or program you've attended or organized that left a lasting impression on you, and why?
Several years ago, I had the incredible opportunity to attend an “Asset-Framing for Equity” seminar with Trabian Shorters, and it transformed how I approach my work. Asset-framing is about seeing and describing people first by their dreams, strengths, and contributions before sharing about the challenges they face. It’s a powerful shift that helps break stereotypes and inspires real action to remove systemic barriers. The insights I gained that day still guide me as I tell our community’s stories with authenticity, compassion, and heart.
What experiences have been influential in shaping your values?
As a first-generation Armenian-Angeleno born and raised in East Hollywood, my values have been deeply shaped by the resilience, strength, and hope of my ancestors. My parents and grandparents immigrated to Los Angeles with little more than their dreams, searching for a better life. I grew up with my feet planted on one continent and my heart growing on another, with storytelling serving as the thread that wove my present to my family’s past.
In the kitchen, my grandmother served tales on platters, her recipes passed down like heirlooms. Centuries-old instruments played the soundtrack of my childhood. Learning about my culture’s painful history, and recognizing that I am the product of my family’s perseverance and love, has given me a sense of purpose and possibility. It has taught me that joy and struggle are not mutually exclusive, that we can find beauty even in the darkest of times, and to envision a future for Los Angeles that transcends its current challenges—a future where our descendants can also revel in the wonders of the world.
Lastly, we believe in the importance of self-care and finding joy. What activities or practices bring you joy and help you recharge outside of work?
Because so much of my work takes place online, it’s important for me disconnect from social media over the weekend. I love anything that pulls me away from my phone and back into the real world—stand up comedy and board games, traveling, and meeting and connecting with people.
Most days, I try to fit in little rituals that keep me grounded: journaling, swimming or kickboxing, spending time in nature, making (usually terrible) art, cooking something fun, and hanging out with friends and family.
