Who is Robert Handa?
Robert Handa is a highly accomplished and award-winning Asian-American journalist who has made significant contributions to the field of news reporting. He is currently a news reporter for KNTV Channel 11 News, a prominent television station based in San Jose, California. In addition to his role as a reporter, he serves as the host of Asian Pacific America, a widely recognized weekly talk show that highlights influential Asian newsmakers, community achievements, and youth perspectives. His work on the program has provided a vital platform for discussing important issues within the Asian American community while shedding light on significant cultural events and social topics. Throughout his career, Handa has remained committed to delivering insightful and impactful journalism that resonates with diverse audiences.
Handa’s journey in journalism began at KNTV, where he quickly established himself as a dedicated and talented reporter. Over the years, his exceptional work has earned him multiple national journalism awards, including prestigious Emmy Awards and top honors from the Asian American Journalists Association. His ability to conduct in-depth interviews and cover a wide range of topics has led him to speak with some of the most influential figures in history, including former U.S. President Jimmy Carter, spiritual leader the Dalai Lama, and former Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton. Through his reporting and interviews, Handa has consistently demonstrated a keen ability to provide viewers with thoughtful and informative news coverage, further solidifying his reputation as a respected journalist in the industry.
Robert Handa birthday and birthplace
Handa was born on April 6, 1944 in Los Angeles, California. His zodiac sign is Aries.
Robert Handa’s height and weight
Handa stands at a height of 5 feet 7 inches (1.70 meters) and weighs around 70 kilograms.
Robert Handa educational background
Robert Handa attended DeAnza College, a public community college in Cupertino, California. He then transferred to San Jose State University, where he graduated with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Broadcast Journalism.
Handa dating life, spouse and children
Robert Handa and his wife, Arlene Sison-Handa, have built a loving family together. They have two children, a son named Mason and a daughter named Olivia. Living in Morgan Hill, California, they take great pride in their family life and cherish their time together.
Robert Handa’s nationality and ethnicity
Handa is an Asian American journalist of Japanese descent. He was born in Los Angeles, California, and his parents, Albert and Harumi Handa, are both Japanese.
Robert Handa parents and siblings
Handa’s parents are Albert and Harumi Handa, who relocated from Japan to California in 1955. He has three siblings: an older brother named Albert Jr. and two younger sisters, Angela and Suzie.
Robert Handa career
Handa has built an impressive career in journalism, earning numerous accolades along the way. His journey began at KNTV Channel 11 News in San Jose, California, where he first gained recognition by winning a journalism contest while studying at DeAnza College. This achievement led to an internship at the station, which later turned into a part-time job as he continued his education at San Jose State University. His dedication and talent eventually secured him a full-time position, making history as KNTV’s first Asian American reporter—a groundbreaking milestone in his career.
At just 22 years old, Handa showcased his investigative skills by producing, videotaping, and editing a five-part documentary series on gangs. This project earned him a Peninsula Press Club award for Best Documentary News Series. In addition to his documentary work, he played a vital role in launching KNTV’s first weekend newscast. Over the years, he has covered a wide array of high-profile stories, including flying with the Blue Angels, reporting on the San Francisco 49ers’ Super Bowl victory, and covering the Maverick’s surf competitions.
Throughout his career, Handa has conducted in-depth interviews with some of the world’s most influential figures. He has spoken with President Jimmy Carter, the Dalai Lama, Henry Kissinger, Hillary Rodham Clinton, and civil rights leader Cesar Chavez. His outstanding journalism has earned him multiple national awards, including Emmys and top honors from the Asian American Journalists Association. In 2016, the Associated Press Television and Radio Association recognized his excellence by naming him “Reporter of the Year.”
Currently, Handa continues to contribute to the industry as an evening news reporter for KNTV. In addition to his reporting duties, he serves as the host of Asian Pacific America, a weekly talk show that highlights Asian newsmakers, community achievements, cultural events, and youth perspectives. His work remains instrumental in giving a voice to the Asian American community while delivering impactful and engaging news coverage.
Robert Handa net worth
He has a net worth of $500,000 and generates an annual salary of $108,000.
Robert Handa social media handles: LinkedIn & Instagram
