EP 173: Korey Watari’s (Able To) Shine

“Knowing what I know now and knowing our ethnicity, and where we come from, and what we know of our culture is what makes us unique,
and what makes you powerful.”

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Korey Watari is a sansei, or third-generation Japanese American, born and raised in Los Angeles. She played basketball for a Japanese American league, graduated from the University of California, Riverside, and studied at the Fashion Institute of Design & Merchandising. 

Korey has worked in the animation and fashion industries for companies such as Disney and the Gap. I Am Able to Shine is her debut picture book and first collaboration with her husband, Pixar Artist and creator of Disney's Ellie series Mike Wu. In this gorgeously illustrated book, she shines a light on the AAPI experience, specifically the Japanese American experience, through the eyes of Keiko. The book was originally created for Korey & Mike’s two daughters and has made an impact for many little girls and boys worldwide. Korey joins us to talk about what inspired her to create this story and is excited to share Keiko's story with readers everywhere.

LEARN ABOUT KOREY

• Website: Koreywatari.com

• LinkedIn: Korey Watari-Wu

• IG: @tinyteru, @wudog23

• TW: @tinyteru