Mia was born in the Philippines before relocating to Los Angeles at a young age. She diverged from a medical path to pursue photojournalism in her early 20s, traveling as an independent for news publications and NGOs throughout the US, Haiti, Mexico and France. In 2012, Mia embarked on a three year expedition across the Mexican highlands and desert landscapes, assimilating with native communities while documenting their ceremonial traditions. She has self-published several poetry and photo books from her journeys. In 2021, she launched IO – an experiential incubator that engages in creative collaborations with XR and Ai tools. Living in Miami, she continues to experiment with visual storytelling in her studio practice, often integrating tech mediums like projection mapping with traditional language in sculpture, painting, video and installation, exploring the glorifications and afflictions that interplay between spirituality and the self identity.