Papaya

Kayleb Lee's journey in film began as a Marine Combat Videographer and Photographer. Born into a diaspora family that had escaped genocide, he grew up as part of a first-generation Southeast Asian household in America. During the genocide, artists, educators, and politicians were systematically targeted and massacred, leaving an enduring stigma around artistic pursuits within his family. Despite this taboo, Kayleb spent years secretly exploring creative outlets—writing poetry, drawing, editing anime music videos on LimeWire, participating in breakdancing crews, and experimenting with hacked software on a donated HP PC. Unbeknownst to him, these hidden passions helped shape a unique voice through various creative mediums.

To escape poverty, Kayleb joined the Marines, where he pursued studies in engineering and mechanics. However, his love for the arts never faded. One pivotal day, after a four-hour conversation under the stars in the Afghanistan desert, Kayleb was mentored to leave military service, pursue higher education, and reach his artistic needs.