Name: Kiana
Nickname: Kiki
Hometown: San Francisco
Languages: English & Cantonese
Tenure: 2^nd Season
GR Leadership Position: Philanthropy Coordinator -- Coordinates volunteer opportunities for teammates with local nonprofit and community organizations.
College: University of Oregon
Degree: B.S. Business Administration; B.A. Political Science; Minors: Chinese & Legal Studies
Grad School: Pepperdine University
Degree: Studying for Masters of Business Administration

When you were a child, what did you want to be when you grew up?
To be like Guy Fieri.

What activities bring you the most joy?
Playing the piano, cooking

What is your personal motto?
My personal motto is to live life to the fullest because we only get one chance at life. As the main characters of our own stories, I believe in making the most of every opportunity and living with gratitude and appreciation for the people and experiences that enrich my life.

What causes are you passionate about?
I am particularly passionate about providing the next generation with access to performing arts education. Having grown up in dance and now teaching children, I have seen firsthand how the arts can build confidence, creativity, discipline, and self-expression. I also believe in creating positive learning environments where young people are empowered to explore their curiosity and develop a lifelong love of learning.

Do you volunteer? If so, where?
Yes. I have been volunteering since my youth through ongoing clothing and coat drives for families in need. I currently volunteer monthly at my local church, where I help serve meals to community members. I have also taught weekly volunteer dance classes at my mom's preschool since my early teens.

What is an interesting fact about you?
I helped organize a children's talent event that gave young performers a platform to showcase their talents while raising scholarship funds to support their arts education.

What is your favorite part of game day?
My favorite part of game day is spotting my mom and dad in the crowd while I am cheering on the sidelines. As I move around to different spots throughout the game, they follow me around the stadium, and we always find a way to signal and wave at each other. Seeing them smiling, jumping, and waving me down reminds me how grateful I am for their support throughout my entire dance journey, and having them watch me dance on this platform is truly a blessing.

If you could make up a cheerleading superpower, what would it be?
Teleportation, so we could make it to every appearance, practice, and game without sitting in Bay Area traffic.

Do you have any skills or talents that most people don't know about?
I have a pretty good basketball shot, especially when it comes to arcade basketball.

How do you want people to remember you?
I would like my legacy to reflect the impact of showing the next generation how valuable education is. Since the age of 16, I've organized community initiatives as well as served as the Performing Arts Director at my mother's preschools, working with hundreds of children and watching them develop their confidence and curiosity. Having experienced the impact of education and the arts in my own life, I truly believe knowledge is power, and that the arts help build creativity and strong work ethic.

What is a personal goal you are working towards this year?
Trying new hobbies and experiences, like learning to ski and play tennis

Who is your biggest role model and why?
My biggest role model is my mom. Watching her build and lead a successful business taught me the value of resilience, hard work, and never being afraid to take on a challenge. She also inspired me to pursue business, not to just build something of my own, but to create opportunities and make meaningful impact in my community.

What is your favorite thing about Gold Rush?
My favorite thing about Gold Rush is the people. Gold Rush is full of eclectic individuals who constantly inspire me, and I have always admired how this program strives for excellence while having a support system like no other. I am grateful to be surrounded by such extraordinary and diverse individuals who challenge me to grow both on and off the field.

What song gets you pumped up on game day?
The Experience by Ludovico Eunaudi

If you were a football player, what position would you play?
The position I'd want to play is tight end because I like being versatile and adapting to whatever the situation calls for.

What is your favorite pregame ritual?
Listening to classical music on the drive to the stadium. I also look forward to our pregame team prayer huddle right before we take the field.

What are you most looking forward to this season?
I'm most looking forward to creating new memories with my teammates, participating in community events, and proudly representing the Faithful on and off the field. Being able to interact with fans and experience the passion and energy they bring to every game and event is one of the best parts of being on Gold Rush.

Is there anything else you'd like to share with the Faithful? What do you want us to know about you?
I'm incredibly grateful to be part of the Gold Rush family and represent the Faithful on and off the field. I don't take this opportunity for granted, and I hope to create lasting memories while sharing my passion for our team with this amazing fan base. We have an exciting season ahead, and I can't wait to experience it with all of you. Go Niners!