Alyssa Rafael is a dynamic and multi-talented individual who has made a name for herself in the entertainment industry as an actress, singer, producer, and presenter. In 2021, she was recognized for her achievements by being named on Forbes' prestigious "30 Under 30" list. This accolade was a testament to her hard work and dedication to her craft.
One of Alyssa's notable accomplishments in 2021 was her role in executive producing and coordinating the Disney Launchpad program. This initiative provided directors from underrepresented backgrounds with the opportunity to produce a short film for the Disney+ streaming platform. It was a groundbreaking program that aimed to foster diversity and inclusivity within the entertainment industry.
Since 2020, Alyssa has been working as the Manager of the Walt Disney Studios' Representation, Inclusion, Strategies & Engagement (RISE) team. In this role, she plays a crucial part in shaping the studio's approach to representation and ensuring that diverse voices are heard and celebrated in their projects. Her work is instrumental in paving the way for a more inclusive and equitable industry.
In addition to her work at Disney, Alyssa also hosted the 3-day D23 Expo Live Ultimate Disney Fan Event in 2022. This event brought together Disney fans from around the world to celebrate their love for the iconic brand. Alyssa's charismatic presence and passion for Disney made her the perfect host for this unforgettable experience.
Before embarking on her successful career in the entertainment industry, Alyssa pursued her academic studies at the University of La Verne, where she graduated in 2016 with a degree in communications and public relations. During her time at university, she was recognized for her exceptional social media skills and received the university's "Best Social Media Campaign" award. She was also honored with the Francis Warren Baker Scholar Prize by the Sigma Kappa Sorority for her outstanding achievements.
Alyssa's journey to success began long before her time at university. From 2013 to 2020, she showcased her talents as Mulan in the musical showcase "Mickey and the Magical Map" at Disneyland resort in California. Her performances captivated audiences and solidified her reputation as a versatile and talented performer.
In 2020, Alyssa co-founded the clothing brand Kuyate, which is named after the Filipino words for brother (Kuya) and sister (Ate). The brand celebrates Filipino culture and has garnered attention from notable figures in the entertainment industry. Famous Filipino celebrities such as Dante Basco, Niko Del Rey, Jennifer Paz, and Gabe Bondoc have all been seen wearing Kuyate's apparel, showcasing the brand's cultural significance and relevance.
Family plays a significant role in Alyssa's life, and in August 2022, she tied the knot with YouTube star and singer AJ Rafael. The couple's union was a joyous occasion, and Alyssa shared glimpses of their happiness on her social media accounts. Together, they collaborated on a song titled "Counting Down to Christmas" with singer and radio host Jim Brickman, adding a musical dimension to their shared creativity.
Alyssa's passion for storytelling and connecting with audiences has led her to exciting opportunities, such as interviewing the cast from the beloved Disney film Encanto at the 2022 D23 Expo Live Ultimate Disney Fan Event. Her insightful questions and engaging presence made the interviews a highlight of the event, showcasing her talent as a presenter and interviewer.
Throughout her career, Alyssa Rafael has demonstrated a commitment to championing diversity, representation, and inclusivity in the entertainment industry. Her innovative projects, dynamic performances, and dedication to her craft have established her as a rising star in the world of entertainment. With her creativity, talent, and drive, Alyssa is poised to make an even greater impact in the years to come.