Hello, I’m Halina. I was born and raised in Japan and later lived in Toronto and London before settling in Palo Alto. I began learning origami as a child from my grandmother. When colorful origami paper wasn’t available, we would fold newspaper into triangles and then make squares to use for folding. Those moments remain some of my most cherished memories of her.
 

As I have grown older, I have reflected on my purpose in life. I believe my mission is to pass on my knowledge and experiences to the next generation and for them to carry it forward. Origami has become my way of fulfilling that mission. It became my IKIGAI.
 

Fifty years from now, I may no longer be on this earth. Yet I hope my students will remember my voice, my teaching, the way I guided them in folding, and the joyful time we shared in the classroom.

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What I teach goes beyond origami techniques. I want students to learn where to focus their attention, what actions to take or avoid, and how small choices can affect others. Through origami, I hope they develop discernment between right and wrong, cultivate compassion, and learn to care for others.
 

Ultimately, I sincerely hope that children growing up in Silicon Valley, no matter what roles they may take on in the future, will make wise decisions, positively influence the world, and pass on a peaceful, war-free planet to future generations. I believe that is my true mission.

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Mother of two teenage sons

Hobbies: Karate, Piano, Photography, Cooking, Traveling in the Middle East, and Origami.

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