Where Are They? Meet Sabina Funasaki

Hi everyone!! My name is Sabina Funasaki, and I am currently a sophomore at Pomona College in Claremont, CA, majoring in Environmental Analysis.

The first step

My CTL journey started in 2023, during my senior year of high school. In the Fellows Program, I worked with peers on a civic project addressing Hawaiʻi’s high cost of living. I was initially skeptical when we chose cost of living because of how immense and complex the issue is, but through our work, I saw how meaningful impact can start small.

A summer back home

I joined Vanguard to stay connected with the friendships I built and to engage with the broader CTL alumni community. Last summer, I participated in CTL’s Summer in Hawaiʻi Internship Program, where I interned with AES Hawaiʻi on their External Affairs team. My work focused on educational outreach, stakeholder relations, and strategic communications.

My primary project involved developing an Educational Outreach Kit for the Mountain View Solar + Storage project, including a site tour presentation for different age groups and a redesigned Snap Circuits activity manual for classrooms.

This internship strengthened my communication skills and deepened my commitment to Hawaiʻi’s clean energy future.

Mountains, medicine, mishaps

A few weeks ago, I had the opportunity to travel to China for spring break—my first time visiting. I’ve studied Chinese for many years, so it was incredibly meaningful to see places I had only learned about in textbooks come to life. Highlights included the Zhangjiajie “Hallelujah” Mountains, the Longji rice terraces, the Terracotta Warriors in Xi’an, and the waterfalls in Furong Town.

One unforgettable moment was trying a freshly fried cicada—without realizing I was allergic. Thankfully, I recovered quickly (with the help of Chinese medicine), but it’s definitely a story I won’t forget anytime soon.

Life Lately

At school, I stay busy as a tour guide, an intern at the Asian American Resource Center (AARC), and an Environmental Analysis liaison. I also help lead Surf Club, participate in the 5C Environmental Justice Club, volunteer with the Food Recovery Network, attend Rooftop Garden meetings, and join campus events. I’m incredibly grateful that CTL has helped develop my leadership and critical thinking skills, which have helped me find meaning in the opportunities I have in college and beyond.

Much Love,