moments of
KiraKira
Project Statement
I started this blog to finally have something I can look at and say, “this is a collection of things that bring me hope in the world”. I grew up with a little bit of an idealistic view that I have only been able to show tangible proof of in the context of the inspirational work I’ve seen done with the American Cancer Society. After learning what hope truly meant to me through their signature fundraiser Relay For Life, I started to see the beauty in empowering stories and celebrating life as it is. I hope this serves as a grounding tool for others, the way that practicing gratitude and wonder towards these kirakira moments are for me.
Features:
Organizations:
Spotlight Features: Deep dives into organizations that are making a significant impact in various fields such as sustainability, health, education, and social justice.
Impact Stories: Articles that detail specific projects, their outcomes, and the lives they have touched.
Interviews with Leaders: Conversations with founders and key figures who share their visions, challenges, and the missions driving their efforts.
People:
Hero Profiles: Celebrating individuals whose actions inspire hope and foster change, from local heroes to global changemakers.
Community Voices: First-person narratives that allow individuals from diverse backgrounds to share their stories of hope, triumph, and transformation.
Editorials: Thoughtful analyses on the role of leadership, courage, and innovation in driving societal progress.
Places:
Cultural Richness: Showcasing places known for their historical, cultural, or natural significance and the roles they play in nurturing hope among communities.
Transformational Spaces: Exploring how certain environments, from revitalized urban areas to serene natural landscapes, contribute to well-being and communal harmony.
Virtual Tours: Leveraging multimedia elements to bring distant places closer to the audience, highlighting their unique stories and the essence of hope they embody.
Kira Sano is a passionate advocate and researcher with a diverse background in environmental studies, sustainability, social change, and community engagement. She holds dual degrees in Environmental Studies and NGOs and Social Change from the University of Southern California and is currently pursuing a Master’s in Sustainability Management. Kira’s work spans across multiple fields, including public health, environmental research, non-profit consulting, and leadership development.
Throughout her career, Kira has led several research projects on topics such as air pollution, sustainability practices, and eco-feminism, with a focus on creating actionable insights that benefit communities. Her interdisciplinary work has taken her from public health studies comparing air quality in India and China, to exploring the dynamic relationship between pop culture and social change at the USC Wrigley Institute.
In addition to her research, Kira has extensive experience in community organizing and non-profit consulting, having worked with organizations such as the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network (ACS CAN). She founded the Society of Emerging Leaders, a group that empowers young advocates to engage in leadership and policy initiatives. Her consulting work has helped non-profits develop strategic campaigns, enhance their operations, and improve community outreach.
Kira’s broad skill set includes data analysis, policy analysis, program management, and communications. She is skilled in using tools like Python, SQL, and machine learning for data-driven insights, and has applied her expertise in community development, strategic planning, and leadership training in both professional and volunteer capacities.
With a deep commitment to sustainability and social impact, Kira continues to drive projects that intersect with her core values of equity, innovation, and community empowerment. She is constantly seeking new opportunities to make a positive difference, whether through research, advocacy, or collaborative projects.