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.
The Cre8sian Project is thrilled to announce the winners of the 2025-2026 Cre8sian Project Scholarships!
Melanie Chen Cole is a sound designer (and cat mom!) based in San Diego. She got her start as a musician, playing the piano and flute as a child. While attending UCSD for biology, she switched majors to join the music department, which ended up landing her an internship at La Jolla Playhouse in sound design – and later earning a BA and MFA from that same school. Now, her resume includes works such as “Covenant” at The Alliance Theatre, “Treasure Island” at Children’s Theatre in Minneapolis, "Baskerville" at The Alley, and currently “The Heart Sellers” at Seattle Rep. Her advice to young artists? “You will be your own biggest advocate of your work. It is hard to quantify success in the arts, so you will have to find a way to define success for yourself.”Read on to learn more about Melanie Chen Cole, and what makes her an Amazing Asian in the Arts!
Peng Peng is an actress and artist based in Las Vegas – but you might recognize her from Nickelodeon’s “Warped,” A24’s “Overcompensating,” the “Gold Over America” tour with Simone Biles, or from her own music videos! Peng Peng fell in love with the arts at a young age, but initially pursued a career in gymnastics (just shy of the Olympics) before stepping into the performing arts. When she’s not performing, Peng Peng works with an organization benefiting children battling cancer, and turns to video games to help her decompress. Her advice for young artists? “Learn to be your biggest supporter, because at the end of the day, no one is going to believe in you as much as you.” Read on to learn more about Peng Peng and what makes her an Amazing Asian in the Arts!