Marisa Kawakami 

Marisa Kawakami is an undergraduate student at the University of California, San Diego, pursuing a B.S. in Cognitive Science with a specialization in Design and Interaction, along with minors in Dance and Computer Science. Passionate about fostering meaningful connections, she is dedicated to giving back to the community that has shaped her. Currently, she is working to revive the Chibi-K Run in Los Angeles’ Little Tokyo, a beloved event that ran for over 25 years before ending in 2011, with the goal of engaging younger generations in the Japanese American community.

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Marisa’s approach to design is deeply influenced by her commitment to building community, ensuring that her work reflects inclusivity, connection, and impact. Marisa is eager to gain hands-on professional experience, learn from mentors, and contribute to creating impactful and meaningful products. 

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Outside of design, Marisa has been dancing since the age of three and continues to find joy in movement. She also loves spending time with family and friends, exploring new foods, cooking, playing volleyball, surfing, and indulging in her love for matcha, sweet treats, and all things hotpot and shabu-shabu.