The Cre8sian Project was born from an idea I had to create characters who represented strong qualities in women. Determination, Concentration, Motivation, and Education are all important virtues that lead to success, so these characters were created to embody our strengths, open and unashamed. The number one goal of The Cre8sian Project is to give AAPI women a place to be seen and heard. By offering resources, partnerships with local organizations and businesses that support the AAPI community, and mentorship, we want to continue to inspire AAPI students to become whatever they want to be, and support them through their journeys, wherever it may take them.
A Determin8sian is unstoppable. Able to navigate everything life has to throw at her with the greatest of ease, she destroys any obstacles in her way and crosses the finish line without breaking a sweat!
A Motiv8sian owns the who, what, where, when, why and ni hao! She always knows exactly what she's doing and why she's doing it, and her fierce desire to get the job done will leave you eating her dust!
A Concentr8sian has a laser-like focus. With the flick of a finger, she can create her own forcefield that deflects all distractions. A fiery meteoroid hurtling towards Earth couldn't break her attention!
An Educ8sian has PhDs for days. She surpasses all search engines and seeks knowledge like a tiger stalking its prey. If you have a question, look for her in the hallowed halls of education. She is the Queen of All Answers!
Empowerment begins on the local level. A portion of the proceeds from each item sold benefits the EWPlay! program at East West Players in LA and a scholarship program at Positively Arts in Las Vegas, as well as various other non profits that support the AAPI community!
Formerly known as Partners in Education & Arts Collaboration or P.E.A.C., EWPlay! is a residency program that brings EWP programming to local schools, especially those without other arts education funding. EWP performers lead a weekly after-school program for 7th graders designed to give students a basic foundation in theater techniques as well as foster awareness and appreciation of class members’ cultural heritage.
Positively Arts believes every child deserves the right to create their own song, however, not every child can afford to write it. Using the arts to EMPOWER, INSPIRE, EDUCATE and HEAL, Positively Arts offers a variety of programs like Broadway Dreamers, Arts in Action, and Get Launched to give students instruction, performance, and mentorship opportunities throughout the year. Their Anti-Bullying and Empowerment Programs provide the tools, coping mechanisms and positive creative outlets for self-expression through artistic discovery and performance.
Sabrina M. Imamura is a dancer and actress based between NYC and LA – but you might have seen her recently in the North American tour of “Hamilton”! Imamura got her start dancing in ballet classes at 3 years old, later receiving a classical piano education. She later got her BFA from the University of Michigan, and made the move to New York, where she welcomed all kinds of new performance opportunities – including musical theatre. Now, her resume includes“Hamilton,” as well as an ad for Swarovski with Ariana Grande, commercial for Shiseido, and doubling work on “The After Party” Season 2! Her advice to young artists? “You should always be your authentic self and don’t be afraid to advocate for yourself.” Read on to learn more about Sabrina M. Imamura and what makes her an Amazing Asian in the Arts!
Lauren Mariasoosay is an actress based in NYC – but right now, you can find her on tour! She got her start in performance at three years old, and after taking a job as a principal vocalist at Disneyland, she knew she was on the right track. Now, Mariasoosay’s resume includes credits like “Six,” “Aladdin,” “Cats,” and fan-favorite “Hamilton!” When she’s not performing, Mariasoosay is an advocate for Laadliyan and Didihood, Canadian-based organizations that support South Asian women in the workplace and education system. Her advice to young artists? “Keep going! They really mean it when they say you’ll get a single yes in a sea of no’s.” Read on to learn more about Lauren Mariasoosay and what makes her an Amazing Asian in the Arts!
Sasha Ono is a musician based in NYC. Ono credits her family for her introduction to music, sharing that it’s been a deeply integrated part of her life since her youth. After deciding to transition from teaching to cello performance, she’s now heard on Cynthia Erivo’s album, "I Forgive You" Ariana Grande’s "Eternal Sunshine" live recording, and her string quartet/jazz quintet project with her father. When she’s not in the studio or onstage, Ono leads a project called “Comfy Classical,” where audiences and musicians enjoy community and music in comfortable clothing. She’s also an advocate for Creatives Care, an organization that connects creative workers with mental health services in New York, and of the New Jersey Symphony Youth Orchestra, which provides all the tools needed for kids to learn music. Ono’s advice to young artists? “Continuously take time to reflect and search for your own voice and purpose… And keep practicing!” Read on to learn more about Sasha Ono and what makes her an Amazing Asian in the Arts!