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Trish La Chica
Community and Government Relations Manager at AlohaCare
Professional Background
Trish Quema La Chica is a seasoned public policy and public health professional with over 13 years of extensive experience in community engagement across county, state, and federal government levels. Throughout her career, Trish has demonstrated exceptional skills in coalition-building, effectively bringing together diverse stakeholders to forge consensus and drive forward critical policy initiatives. Her commitment to advocacy is fueled by a lifelong passion for uplifting families, youth, and marginalized voices within the community, ensuring that those often overlooked are heard and supported.
Trish's professional journey has included prominent positions within various organizations, where she has played a pivotal role in shaping health policies and reform initiatives. As the Community and Government Relations Manager at AlohaCare, she has successfully fostered partnerships and relationships that enhance community health outcomes. Prior to this role, she served as the Policy and Advocacy Director at the Hawai‘i Public Health Institute, where she was instrumental in developing and advocating for policies designed to improve public health across the state.
Her tenure as a Policy Analyst in the Office of the Governor of Hawaii further underscored her commitment to the public sector, as she shaped policies impacting the health and well-being of Hawaii's populations. In addition, her work as an Independent Consultant at Choose Praxis showcased her expertise in providing tailored strategies to non-profit organizations aiming to amplify their impact.
Trish's background in community engagement extends to her work with the Asian & Pacific Islander American Health Forum, where she served as a Community Engagement Specialist and previously as a Chronic Diseases Program Assistant. These roles have equipped her with a deep understanding of the health disparities faced by diverse communities and the importance of culturally competent approaches to advocacy.
Moreover, Trish has shared her talents in communication and outreach through her early career as a Program Associate at Sociometrics Corporation and as a Campaign Fellow at the United Way of the Bay Area. She also brings a unique journalistic perspective from her time as a Producer and Researcher at ABS-CBN Corporation and as a Writer for Colors Magazine, where her storytelling abilities have helped to highlight the importance of public health narratives.
Education and Achievements
Trish Quema La Chica's educational background is a reflection of her dedication to public service and community health. She holds a Master of Public Administration (MPA) from the University of San Francisco, where she honed her skills in public policy formulation, governance, and strategic management. In addition, she has studied Economics and Statistics at Monterey Peninsula College, enhancing her analytical capabilities, which are vital in evaluating health policies and programs.
Her studies in Healthcare Analytics at the University of California, Davis, further equip her with the data-driven approach necessary to assess health outcomes and advocate for evidence-based practices. Trish's educational journey began with a Bachelor of Arts in Communications from Ateneo de Manila University, laying the groundwork for her communication skills, which have proven invaluable throughout her career.
Achievements
Trish's extensive career is marked by numerous achievements that reflect her commitment to advancing public health and advocating for equitable policies. Through her various roles, she has successfully led initiatives aimed at reducing health disparities and promoting wellness in underserved communities. One of her notable accomplishments includes advancing critical public health policies that address chronic diseases, particularly within the Asian and Pacific Islander populations, which are often underrepresented in healthcare discussions.
Her collaborative efforts in coalition-building have not only united different community organizations but have also amplified the voices of those who are traditionally marginalized, advocating for systemic changes that prioritize health equity. Trish's passion for community engagement is exemplified by her volunteer work, including serving as a tutor for Balara Public Elementary School, where she positively impacted the lives of local students.
In conclusion, Trish Quema La Chica's career has been defined by a consistent commitment to public service, advocacy, and community engagement. Her diverse experiences and educational background have uniquely positioned her to make significant contributions to the fields of public policy and health. As she continues to champion the cause of health equity and amplify unheard voices, Trish remains a vital force within her community and the broader public health arena.
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