About
My name is Matthew Yoshimoto, and I’m an undergraduate at the University of California, Berkeley, studying history, public policy, and journalism with a specialization in business and economic policy. My academic and professional journey is driven by a commitment to uncovering untold stories, amplifying marginalized voices, and leveraging storytelling to inspire positive societal change.
As a freelance journalist with AsAmNews and the Lead Business & Economy Reporter at The Daily Californian, I have honed skills in investigative reporting, project management, team leadership, data analysis, and social media strategy. At AsAmNews, I’ve had the privilege of collaborating closely with veteran journalist Randall Yip, learning the nuances of community-driven journalism. My work centers on the intersection of policy, representation, and activism, aiming to make complex issues accessible and impactful.
In May 2024, my reporting on Acting Labor Secretary Julie Su was featured in the Department of Labor’s news brief, where I illuminated her vision for a more inclusive American Dream. That same month, my article on Korean American Eumi Lee’s confirmation as a U.S. District Judge garnered recognition from Senator Alex Padilla’s communications team. Both experiences reinforced my passion for covering stories that shape public discourse and empower communities.
My storytelling extends to sports, where I’ve explored the growing significance of AANHPI representation in the NFL, highlighting rising stars like Los Angeles Rams wide receiver Puka Nacua and sports journalist Mina Kimes. Additionally, I’ve had the privilege of interviewing trailblazers such as NASA astronauts Leroy Chiao and Suni Williams, shedding light on the inspiring contributions of Asian Americans across industries. Through these features, I aim to celebrate diversity and inspire future generations to pursue their dreams.
As the Special Issues Deputy Editor at The Daily Californian, I oversaw the planning, development, and production of a special issue. This role required collaborating with editorial teams, designers, and junior writers, mentoring emerging talent, and ensuring the publication’s content was insightful and impactful. I took pride in fostering a creative environment that elevated the team’s work and brought important stories to the forefront.
Currently, I am a Research Assistant at WU (Vienna University of Economics and Business), where I assist with conduct sentiment analysis on sermons addressing topics like racial justice, gun control, and climate change. My role emphasizes the power of data and critical analysis in understanding how sociopolitical discourse influences policy outcomes. This position has deepened my understanding of how academic research complements journalistic storytelling, helping me bridge the gap between theory and practice.
Through my academic pursuits, journalistic endeavors, and research experience, I aim to continue uncovering impactful stories that resonate with communities and drive meaningful change.