Marielena Castellanos
South Bay Engagement ProducerMarielena Castellanos is the South Bay engagement producer at KPBS. She brings experience in outreach and engagement, politics, and communications as well as radio, print, broadcast, and multimedia journalism.
Prior to joining KPBS, she produced a daily radio newscast for San Diego’s Jazz 88.3 FM KSDS. She also wrote community-focused stories for the local bilingual community newspaper, La Prensa San Diego.
Marielena was born in Chula Vista and raised along the border in the South Bay/Tijuana region. Her education includes attending both Southwestern College and San Diego City College. She is a first-generation college graduate from UC Berkeley with degrees in ethnic studies and English.
MORE STORIES BY THIS AUTHOR
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Answer our six-question multiple-choice quiz and find out which candidates align with you on important issues before the 2025 special primary election for county supervisor in District 1. -
The winner will decide which party controls the San Diego County Board of Supervisors, shaping policies on immigration, mental health, and more. -
More than 50 years ago, Diane Ingalls met her future husband while selling ice cream on the Bahia Belle. She reflects on the moments that shaped their relationship. -
Kari de Burgh's journey to self-love transformed her outlook on life, helping her embrace inner peace, gratitude and the freedom of being her own best friend. -
Valentine’s Day may have passed, but love is always in the air — and we’re always here for your stories. While our call for Valentine’s submissions is now closed, we’re keeping the form open so you can share your San Diego love stories anytime. -
Shortly after being sworn in for his second term, President Donald Trump declared a national emergency at the southern border, set plans in motion to deploy troops there and vowed to deport millions of people living in the U.S. without legal status.
MORE STORIES FEATURING WORK BY THIS AUTHOR
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Border Investigative Reporter Gustavo Solís breaks down the impact of Mexico's upcoming election in our region during KPBS' first virtual bilingual conversation with politics experts. -
Homelessness in the region increased by at least 14% this year, according to the results from the 2023 WeAllCount Point-in-Time Count released Thursday.
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