Yalan 
I was born in Santa Monica, CA. I was always drawn to art for as long as I can remember. Drawing the cartoons I watched as a child, and to this day still enjoy coloring and drawing in my free time. I went to Moorpark Community College, to study art. While there, I practiced painting, figure drawing and sculpture. During this time, I would come to find my love of community, I hosted art shows and open mics at my home. I soon got a job working for a painting contractor out of Santa Monica. While the work was good, I knew I wanted to do something more in-line with my interest in the arts. I put contracting painting on hold and I took up work with a carpenter and a muralist. Painting large works and assisting with the production and installment of cabinetry. Going to art galleries and seeing live music was the way I spent my weekends during that time.

Permaculture was always there in the background of my life, my late father planted native fruit trees and compost, but that was just the start. My mother eventually put a cob structure in our backyard, along with a compost toilet and outdoor kitchen and shower. I was naturally an outdoorsy person, hikes with friends would turn into adventures up a mountain. I was curious about a lifestyle closer to earth. During the pandemic I visited multiple permaculture sites out in Joshua Tree to see alternative ways of living. I knew I wanted to combine my tool belt I acquired from working in the city, with my love of nature. After my mother moved out to Costa Rica, I took it as an opportunity to explore. I found Rancho Mastatal and was hooked. I kept returning for classes. I took a natural building course along with a PDC and WFR certification. Now I’m back for the year long apprenticeship, and I’m excited to be taking these steps into a green new world.