Krista Kleiner is a multifaceted changemaker, producer, and advocate for social and environmental causes. As the Founder and CEO of The One Heart Movement, a US-based 501(c)(3) nonprofit, she actively pursues solutions for pressing global issues. She is also the Co-Founder of WOW Empire Studios, a production company creating entertainment with heart—developing media projects that celebrate culture, connection, and the human spirit.
A Filipino-American, her diverse previous accomplishments include winning Miss Philippines, starring in Philippine television as an actress/host/singer/dancer, touring with Julio Iglesias as a special guest performer, releasing music internationally, and authoring academic papers—becoming a published author in a global leadership book at 16.
Through her work at The One Heart Movement, she has spearheaded the establishment of a forest in East Africa, providing sustainable communities, empowering women, and enabling education for thousands of children. Their reach is extended by partnerships on initiatives with organizations including the World Economic Forum, Oceanic Preservation Society, the Chopra Foundation, and the Asian World Film Festival. Her work includes co-producing special events and media projects, such as a climate education drone show and United Nations panel, which she also moderated.
Her journey as a public figure began as a teenage TV personality, eventually leading to her role as a spokesperson for organizations including the Miss Philippines organization and the National Diversity Coalition in the US. She additionally holds the honor of being named a Cultural Ambassador to the Philippines, bestowed by the US Philippine Embassy and the White House.
Artfully connecting culture, creativity, and advocacy, Krista’s passion for storytelling manifests through WOW Empire’s productions, as well as her own work in writing, visual media, recording arts, television hosting, performing arts, and public speaking. Across both her nonprofit and creative ventures, she inspires others to strive for a world where humanity and the planet can flourish.
While she enjoys living a dynamic life, her endeavors are centered around her life’s core mission: to uplift voices, unite communities, and create a positive global impact—helping heal the world through the power of love.
PUBLICATIONS
Eye of the Dragon. Art Confidential Magazine, 2022.
A Brilliance To Be Missed. Remembering Jean-Marc Vallée. Art Confidential Magazine, 2022.
From Tulum to Miami (Art With Me Festival). Art Confidential Magazine, 2022.
Winning with a Warrior Spirit. Art Confidential Magazine, 2022.
The Grande Dames of Asian Cinema. Art Confidential Magazine, 2021.
Passion for Action: The Artistic Mission of Georges N. Chamochoum. Art Confidential, 2021.
The Artful Charm of Loni Anderson. Art Confidential Magazine, 2021.
Finding PeaceLove Through Unconventional Style. Art Confidential Magazine, 2021.
Value Beyond the Canvas. Art Confidential Magazine, 2021.
Through the Looking Glass. Art Confidential Magazine, 2021.
Rethinking Leadership and Followership: A Student’s Perspective. In Ronald E. Riggio, Ira Chaleff and Jean Lipman-Blumen (Editors), The Art of Followership: How Great Followers Create Great Followers Create Great Leaders and Organizations. San Francisco: Jossey-Bass, 2008. A Warren Bennis Book.
An Analysis of the Concept of Belief. Co-authored. Global Education Journal, 2007.
Understanding & Preventing Harassment and Discrimination at Work. Co-authored. Conflict Resolution & Negotiation Journal, 2007.
Generation Y: Portrait of the Leaders of Tomorrow. Co-authored. Ethics & Critical Thinking Journal, 2007.
New Development Concerning Employment Discrimination & Harassment. Co-authored. Business Quest, 2007.
Understanding and Preventing Harassment and Discrimination at Work. Co-authored. Journal of Business Industry and Economics, 2007, Volume 8, Spring, 57-64.
AWARDS AND RECOGNITIONS
Outstanding Philanthropist: Sinag Lahi USA Entrepreneur and Cultural Heritage Awards (2023)
Board Member to the Asian World Film Festival (2022)
Cultural Ambassador to the Philippines (2021)
Creative Council Member and Summit Organizer: Federation of Philippine Chamber of Commerce (2021)
WOW Awards: Woman of Worth Awardee (2019)
For Outstanding Leadership, Achievement, and Community Service
California Legislature State Assembly Recognition
Additional Recognitions from the City of Carson and the City of Sierra Madre
TOP-LA: The Outstanding Pilipinos in Los Angeles Awardee (2015)
For Performing Arts Leadership Excellence
Victoria Jackson’s Woman of Essence Awardee (2011)
In Recognition of Outstanding Achievement in the Entertainment Industry
Miss International Finalist & Miss Expressive Winner (2010)
Representative of the Philippines in the International competition held in China
Miss Philippines Winner (2010)
Won the title of Miss Philippines International
Won additional recognitions for Best in Swimsuit and Best in Talent
National Society of Collegiate Scholars Recognition (2008)
Graduated high school with a 4.37 GPA along with honors in History and English (2007)
Received the President’s Student Service Award (2007)
In recognition of Outstanding Community Service