Volunteer of the Month: Lena Miyamoto
January 22, 2019
CUESA’s Volunteer of the Month program recognizes the dedication and work of some of our most active volunteers. CUESA relies on volunteers to help with education programs, special events, public outreach, and other activities that help fulfill our mission to cultivate a sustainable food system. Learn more about volunteering and sign up here.
With a passion for sustainable agriculture and food education, Lena Miyamoto has volunteered with CUESA since 2016 for a wide range of events. She has supported Summer Celebration, Sunday Supper, Market to Table cooking demonstrations at Ferry Plaza and Jack London Square Farmers Markets, Mission Community Market events, and the Future of Food Talk series.
“Lena is the soft spoken but productive volunteer who makes significant impact with her CUESA time,” says Volunteer and Special Projects Coordinator Cindy Mendoza. “We can always count on her help to get the important tasks done for successful events. Plus she enjoys learning along the way, whether at our panel discussions or farm tours. We’re so happy she’s part of our CUESA community.” Meet Lena.
CUESA: Where does your interest in food come from?
Lena: My mother wrote some successful books in Japanese about diet and living in the Tuscany countryside. She also raised me on both good healthy food and Japanese food at the family table. My obachan (grandma) also taught me how to shape gyoza dumplings, and I helped fan to cool sushi rice for my mother’s dinner parties.
CUESA: What do you do when you aren’t volunteering for CUESA?
Lena: I’m taking some science classes at CCSF and work in ad tech digital marketing. I’m also a certified nutrition educator.
CUESA: What is your favorite part about volunteering with CUESA?
Lena: The people! I really enjoy working with CUESA staff, volunteers, farmers, vendors, and meeting and hearing the speakers at the lecture series. I learn great tips and recipes from the featured participants in the Market to Table demos.
CUESA: Do you have an insider market tip or a favorite produce item at the market right now?
Lena: Citrus is in season now. Blood orange looks and tastes beautiful in cakes, salads, in spa water, and tea.
Topics: Volunteers and Interns