Island Girl,
Japanese Values

Howzit! I’m Taryn (pronounced like the name Karen but with a “T”), a Designer, Marketer, and Creative whose work is deeply rooted in the values of community, empathy, and diversity. Born and raised in the vibrant, multicultural tapestry of Hawaii, my upbringing on the island has profoundly shaped who I am today, both personally and in my work. 

Growing up in Oahu, Hawaii, I was immersed in a world of all kine cultures, traditions, and perspectives that seamlessly blended together—what we locals fondly refer to as the “Melting Pot.” Family bonds were strong, with Japanese traditions passed down with pride, and the value of perseverance woven into our daily lives—whether in school, work, or caring for others. Success wasn’t just about personal achievement; it was about lifting up our family and community together. This sense of community, empathy, and understanding was simply how we lived. But, like plenty of folks from here, I took this unique environment for granted, not fully grasping its value until I left for college on the mainland. 

Designing with Empathy & Aloha 

My experiences—growing up in Hawaii, living in Tokyo and Seattle, and ultimately returning home—gave given me a unique perspective that I bring to every design project. My work is informed by a deep respect for diverse perspectives, a commitment to creating inclusive and intuitive designs, and an unwavering belief in the power of community and empathy. I strive to create experiences that resonate with users from all walks of life, ensuring that everyone feels seen, heard, and understood. 

Let’s talk story! Every story is unique, and I’d love to help tell yours. My goal is to design with intention and impact, always keeping the human experience at the heart of what I do.

Mahalo for stopping by, and I look forward to connecting with you.  

Defining Identity & Belonging

At 18, I swapped slippers for boots and ventured to Seattle in search of new experiences. The culture shock was real—rain every day, fast pace, and nobody could pronounce my name right. Greeting new people with warm hugs shifted to formal handshakes, and calling elders "Aunty and Uncle" became "Mr. and Mrs."—a small but telling change that made it feel a world apart from Hawaii. But it pushed me out of my comfort zone and into a space where I had to navigate my identity in new and sometimes challenging ways. I stood out in Seattle, not just because of my appearance but because of my background, mannerisms, and the values I held close to my heart.  

During my junior year in college, I studied abroad in Tokyo, Japan, a pivotal time that further shaped my understanding of identity. Imagine looking like everybody else, but once you open your mouth, they know you’re not from there. It was a weird mix of fitting in but not really, and that’s where I really started to understand the meaning of identity and belonging. It was a powerful lesson in the complexities of cultural identity and the importance of empathy in communication. This experience taught me the delicate balance of fitting in and standing out, which has become a cornerstone of my approach to design.

After earning my degree in Business Administration with a focus on Marketing, I stayed in Seattle and jumped into the corporate grind. I became the first person of color on the Headquarter Marketing & Communications team at a global logistics company, where I quickly learned the art of code-switching, often concealing my Hawaii slang or “pidgin” accent to blend in. While I thrived in my role, I couldn’t shake the feeling of being disconnected—from my culture, my family, and ultimately, myself. The long hours and corporate grind began to wear on me, making me realize that success isn’t just about output; it’s about staying true to your values and maintaining the connections that matter most.

Rediscovering 
My Roots

In 2021, after seven years away, I decided to return home to Hawaii. Moving back was both a homecoming and a rediscovery of everything I had missed. I reconnected with my roots—Sunday family dinners, kickbacks with childhood friends, pau hana with coworkers, hiking, and spending time by the ocean. I also found new ways to connect with my community, working for a local politician where I could blend my creativity with my passion for community involvement and supporting local businesses and organizations. Coming home meant familiar questions like “Where you when grad?” whenever you meet someone new it brings a smile to my face.

Mahalo!