Introduction
Kaya Landingin is a proud Filipino-American born and raised in Vilamor Air Base, a close knit neighborhood in Pasay City, Philippines. She graduated from a public elementary school there in 2006 and completed high school at Piccio Garden in 2010, at just 16 years old. Her journey through higher education began shortly after, though it was interrupted by financial challenges. Determined to pursue her passion, Kaya enrolled in culinary arts in Manila but had to pause her studies once again.
At 19, she made the bold decision to move to Los Angeles, California, in hopes of earning a culinary degree at Los Angeles Trade-Tech College in 2013. Though the path was not smooth and required switching academic tracks, Kaya remained resilient. By 2017, she found her calling in studio arts and added two more areas of study, eventually earning an Associate Degree in Liberal Arts: Arts and Humanities, alongside multiple certificates and recognition on the Dean’s List at Los Angeles City College in East Hollywood.
In June 2023, Kaya graduated with three associate degrees. a testament to her perseverance and academic growth. She is currently pursuing studio arts at California State University, Long Beach (CSULB). However, her journey has not been without adversity. In April 2024, Kaya faced severe challenges including bullying, age and disability discrimination, and racial profiling from fellow students. These incidents, unfortunately, were dismissed by some faculty and campus leaders.