kai (开) in mandarin chinese means to open, to start and to drive
We combine creativity and strategy to bring your company closer to your marketing goals. We take a customized approach to ensure that your company’s values and mission are represented, building a strong identity that attract the right audiences to you.
meet our team
Alex San Diego
Co-Founder, Creative Director of Kai Communications
Alex (she/they) is a Filipina-Canadian born and raised in Edmonton, on Treaty 6 Territory. They hold a Bachelor’s Degree and Master’s Degree in East Asian Studies - a combination of their love for research, writing, language, culture, and media.
Alex began their marketing and communications career in 2015, joining West Edmonton Mall’s digital marketing team as a Social Media Representative. They believe in using the power of communication to make the world a better place and applies this to their volunteer work as a mental health advocate.
Highlights in Alex’s Journey
Studying Korean language, culture, and history at Yonsei University, one of Korea’s top 3 institutions
Attending the 2019 International Association for Youth Mental Health conference in Brisbane, Australia
Writing articles for Koreaboo, a K-Entertainment site with 10 million+ readers
Collaborating with Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and other brands as Asian Mental Health Collective’s Chief Marketing Officer
Janine Palencia
Communications Specialist, Kai Communications
Janine (she/her) was born in the Philippines and brought up between the east and west coasts of Canada, as well as brief stints in England. She holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Communication Studies and, as a freelance creator, has produced works for radio and online publications.
Prior to working in the communications field, Janine worked for 9+ years in different ares of social services including child welfare, employment and residential supports. Janine joined Kai Communications as a Marketing Intern in 2023, and hopes to continue pursuing works centred around culture and community-building.
Highlights in Janine’s Journey
Taking part in press briefings with Asian entertainers including Wanting Qu, Elise Estrada and Far East Movement
Winning a Capilano University Student Award for Excellence in Research for her 2024 research on risk and crisis communications in public health
Attending the 2025 International Association for Youth Mental Health conference held In Vancouver, BC