Mariko has loved the performing arts all her life. As a youth, she saw a touring production of The Phantom of the Opera, and she fell in love with the craft. Mariko loved the stage so much she studied for and received her bachelor’s in theater, with an emphasis on playwriting and acting. In her professional life, Mariko has had the honor of working in state government and media companies, and supporting philanthropic organizations and foundations, helping to secure resources for communities to advance charitable missions. She has been actively involved in arts nonprofits throughout the past two decades, serving on several boards and volunteering on grant committees. Mariko especially enjoys connecting with volunteers, donors, and partners, the people who most believe in and take action to ensure nonprofits can continue to support local communities in perpetuity. Mariko is also a singer-songwriter who performs regularly across the Bay Area.