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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Plaza Bonita was recently acquired by HP Bonita Investments LLC, according to an internal memo obtained by KPBS. What type of changes may come under the new ownership remain unclear. -
From pandemic pivots to economic pressures and changing immigration policies, Chula Vista's legacy quinceañera businesses continue to anchor a Latino tradition. -
Quinceañeras are pricey, averaging almost $30K, but for many parents, it’s an important milestone marking a transition from childhood to adulthood. It’s also an opportunity to connect with culture, friends, family and faith. We spoke to families in San Diego to find out how they are affording them. -
On Monday, a graduation ceremony will be held for students who participated in the United Lowrider Youth Leadership Bike Club. -
Planning a quinceañera (also known as fiesta de quince años) can be a special time for a family. KPBS wants to know: did you have a quinceañera? If you didn’t have one, was cost a deciding factor? Did you do an alternative celebration like a trip to Disneyland instead? -
It was hugs, smiles and joy on the faces of the children that attended the 25th anniversary of the Teddy Bears for Kids event at Ocean View Hills School in San Ysidro.
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National City Mayor Ron Morrison announced over the weekend that he will not seek reelection in November, bringing a close to 34 years in city government. -
The annual Día de Muertos altar at Mercado Hidalgo is a beloved Tijuana tradition honoring the deceased. -
A look back at SDCC 2025's highlights and tips for celebrating pop culture all year long.
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- San Diego Airport starts construction on off-site road widenings
- Hospice is meant to provide months of support. Many patients get just 19 days.
- Crews halt forward spread of wildfire in Dehesa