Storyteller by name, storyteller by heart.
“Manalastas” means “to proclaim” in Tagalog—fitting for a life spent telling stories across oceans and cultures.
ABOUT ME
Mia Manalastas is a communications and community strategist with a background in science, storytelling, and environmental advocacy. She earned her Associate’s degree in Biology and Chemistry from Saddleback College before completing a Bachelor of Science in Biospsychology at the University of California, Santa Barbara, where her studies deepened her understanding of the relationships between humans, ecosystems, and the natural world.
Her last name, Manalastas, means “to proclaim” in Tagalog—reflecting her Filipina heritage and symbolizing her lifelong desire to share and connect people, culture, and place, through storytelling. This meaning shapes her work, which focuses on translating complex ideas into accessible, human-centered narratives.
Guided by her love for the ocean and the outdoors, Mia blends scientific literacy with creative strategy to support mission-driven organizations, community initiatives, and environmental education. From surfing to skateboarding to snowboarding, she embraces a lifestyle that aligns with her values, spending as much time as possible in nature. Her mission is to inspire a deeper connection between people and the planet through storytelling, fostering a collective commitment to sustainability and conservation.
Outside of her professional work, Mia spends as much time as possible in nature—surfing, snowboarding, and traveling through coastal communities. She believes in the power of community and connection to drive positive change and inspire collective care for both people and the planet.
CREATIVE & COMMUNICATION SERVICES
You don’t just need content—you need a story that builds trust, inspires action, and connects people to place. As a creative strategist and visual storyteller, Mia works with mission-driven brands, community initiatives, and purpose-led destinations to communicate impact through thoughtful, intentional storytelling.
With a background in science and environmental advocacy, her approach blends strategy, visual storytelling, and clear communication to help organizations grow engaged audiences, strengthen relationships, and share meaningful work with integrity.
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Creative direction and on-camera storytelling for surf, swim, and lifestyle campaigns—bringing brands to life with an authentic, human-centered approach.
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Authentic video and photo content created for social platforms, paid ads, and digital campaigns—designed to feel natural, compelling, and on-brand.
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Social strategy, growth, and community engagement rooted in storytelling—tailored to your brand’s voice, values, and audience.
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Photography and visual storytelling for hotels, resorts, and place-based tourism brands—capturing the feeling, culture, and experience of each destination.
CONSERVATION & COMMUNITY
Alongside her creative work, Mia is deeply engaged in environmental education, ocean conservation, and community-based initiatives across Southeast Asia and the U.S. Her background in science informs her approach to storytelling—bridging research, lived experience, and accessible communication to support conservation, education, and long-term impact.
Misamisnon-USA
Nature Kids of Siargao
Babesnboards (Chapter Leadership)
