Introduction

2025 marks our fifth year of publishing. We are so proud to be part of a community that celebrates creativity and self-expression. So, it feels only fitting that the first issue of the year explores themes of family.

It doesn’t matter how we define family—we each have our own perspectives, experiences, and expectations of what it means. The work on this issue reminds us that family can take many forms. Yes, it can be the people who raised us, but it can also be the memories, the teachings, the spaces, the love, and so much more that shape the very fabric of who we are. These people and circumstances that have influenced our identities help us better understand ourselves—what we value, what we hold onto, and what we let go of.

We are so proud of our Panocha family. Your love and support have brought us to this moment. It hasn’t been without hard work or struggle, but it has, without a doubt, been beautiful. We carry you all in our hearts. You have shaped us and who we aspire to be. It’s your support that keeps us going, and we hope that when you read these pages, you feel our love in return.