West Seattle Meet the TEAM

"If there is a will, there is a way."

Favorite Princess: Mulan

Language: English, Tagalog, Chinese

After graduating with a degree in Integrated Marketing Communications in the Philippines, I decided to take additional classes in Early Childhood Development because I love children. My first job in the United States was a kid's club attendant for 24-Hour Fitness for 3 years, where I took care of kids from 6 months to 12 years old. I am currently a middle school (since 2015) and high school basketball coach (since 2016). In my spare time, I love exploring the world and playing basketball. I have a Master's degree in International Marketing from Boston University and also a Master's Degree in Curriculum and Instruction, specializing in Early Childhood Development from Arizona State University's Online Program.

"Don't be pushed around by the fears in your mind. Be led by the dreams in your heart."

Favorite Princess: Belle

Language: English, Tagalog, Chinese

Ever since I was young, I have always adored kids. I am a CPA and have a full-time accounting job; however, I mostly work from home and I have to say that the kids make our home a much happier place. I call myself “Lola” which means grandma in Filipino.  Because I am not on the child care floor full time, I am more like a lola who helps out
when needed and loves to play with the kids. On my spare time, you can see me reading a book, like my favorite princess, Belle.

“Try to be a RAINBOW in someone else CLOUD” - Maya Angelou

Favorite Princess: Josina (my daughter) 

Language: English, Tagalog, Ilocano

I graduated from Washington State University (Go Cougs!) in 2018 with a Bachelor's in Human Development and a certificate in Early Childhood Education. After graduating I started my career as a Teacher aid at a Community Child Care Center and eventually became a lead teacher within 4 years. I then found myself here in West Seattle working with The Little Trailblazers which kicked started my career as the Director in 2021 :) I am a well-rounded person who likes to be busy planning events, creating products, managing programs, and developing new ideas. I love to come home to my husband, daughter and her two furry siblings.

 " The future cannot be predicted, but futures can be invented." Dennis Gabor 

Favorite Princess: Mulan

Language: Spanish, English

 Hi, I'm Mariana Rodil! 

I'm originally from Venezuela and currently studying Business at North Seattle College. I spent five years working as a nanny, which helped me develop valuable skills, such as responsibility, patience and multitasking. In my free time, I love camping and hiking, nature is my escape, and I enjoy staying active outdoors every chance I can. I'm native Spanish speaker, so I'm always happy to connect with others who share that language and culture.

"Just keep swimming" - Nemo

Favorite Princess: Moana

Language: English

 Talofa! This is how we say Hello in Samoa! I’m Christy Moegu, my family calls me Titi. A little about me is I’m a proud Pacific Islander born & raised in Washington. I grew up in a huge household full of humbleness and self-discipline. Fun facts about it, I am the 13th out of 14 siblings! 7 girls and 7 boys. I also played sports like Rugby & Volleyball just to get out of the house & to keep me busy while I was in school. On the other hand, I always wanted to help our young students face adversity & poverty so they wouldn’t lack the opportunities, skills & resources I did as a child. Being here at Lil Trailblazers helps me further my journey & I’m super excited to share this experience with a lovely team & group of kiddos! 

"I am no longer accepting the things, I cannot change. I am changing things, I cannot accept " - Angela Davis

Favorite Princess: Tiana (Tioana)

Language: English

I started working in child care at Kinder Care Learning Center, in the early 2000's where I was a Pre-K teacher, cook, and bus driver for school-age kids. In later years I returned to the company as an assistant Preschool teacher. That later turned into me being a lead toddler teacher. In 2014 I worked for Seattle Public School District as a schoolcrossing guard and at night child care provider. I love to read and create different foods for my family and friends to enjoy. My joy in life is Jesus, my kids, and my grandson Tyshon Jr. I love working and growing with children.

“You are loved and enough, always"

Favorite Princess:  Ariel

Language: English, Khmer

      Hello - I’m teacher Katy!! (Katrina)
 I love exploring, and going on trips is my number one activity. I have been working at LTWS and it has been super enjoyable.

  I absolutely love working with children because they are at such a unique stage of development. Their curiosity and excitement about the world are infectious, and I find it incredibly rewarding to be part of their early learning experiences. It's amazing to watch them explore new skills, express themselves, and begin to make sense of everything around them. There's something truly special about helping shape their understanding!! 

 “People will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel" -  Maya  Angelou 

Favorite Princess:  Cinderella 

Language: English

Hi everyone, I am Teacher Jess, I was born and raised in a small town called Clinton, Connecticut. This is where I spent my childhood playing outside, exploring trails, and riding a bike in the forest with my siblings.  I have a huge passion for sports as soccer and softball also were a big part of my childhood. 

I moved to Seattle about 15 years ago on a leap of faith. My path has taken a different route than planned but, it led me to Little Trail Blazers and I am truly grateful for the opportunity and the trust you are putting in me with your children. 

I am currently getting my Master's in Elementary Education along with my educational license. I have over 10 years of experience working in the classroom with ages ranging from infant to school-age children. And it’s my absolute favorite thing to watch a child grow confidence and empathy for themselves and their peers. 

I love to have fun, explore, create, learn, and imagine in a safe way, while also testing our limits and capabilities through hands-on experiences. 

"Rome was not built in a day " 

Favorite Princess: Vagita

Language: English

         Hello, families of Little Trailblazers! 

     Fun facts about me my first names are Akeem Damon but either works for me, I was born on the pristine island of Palau, and my passions are content creating, cooking, and Music! Family is a key pillar in Pacific Islander households and I’m excited to meet my new family! 

" A little progress each day adds up to BIG RESULTS" 

Favorite Princess: Tiana

Language: English

I'm Falena, though most people know me as Lena or Chef Lena Rose. At 31, I've built my life around my passion for culinary arts and giving back to my community. Born and raised in Seattle, Washington, I've always felt a deep connection to this vibrant city and its diverse food scene.

As the owner of Lena Rose Catering, I pour my heart and soul into creating delicious meals for my clients. Cooking has been my calling since childhood, and I take pride in being entirely self-taught. My journey as a chef has been one of constant learning and growth, driven by my love for food and its power to bring people together.

When I'm not in the kitchen, I dedicate my time to working with youth. I'm passionate about educating and mentoring children, helping them discover their potential and fostering their growth. This work isn't just a job—it's an extension of my belief in nurturing the next generation.

Community service is another crucial part of who I am. As a youth mentor with Choose To Win, I guide young men and participate in initiatives to support the elderly and homeless in Downtown Seattle. I often combine my culinary skills with my desire to give back by preparing hot meals for those in need.

At home, I'm a proud dog mom to my two adorable chiweenies, Milo and Honey. They're my furry family and bring joy and balance to my busy life.  

From catering events to mentoring youth and volunteering in my community, I strive to make a positive impact in everything I do. My life is a flavorful blend of culinary arts, youth development, and community service—a combination that fulfills me and allows me to share my passions with others every day.