Leadership Savvy List: 31 AAPIs and Allies You Should Know

42% of people in U.S. can’t name one well-known Asian American. 11% said Jackie Chan and 9% said Bruce Lee (who died nearly half a century ago). This isn’t family feud folks! Just getting Asian names on the board isn’t good enough. We are diverse. Not just kung-fu super heroes. We have been here since the 1850s. We are firmly rooted in the fabric of America. This is our home, yet we are invisible.

The model minority myth perpetuates our invisibility. Our be humble, work hard, take it for the team mentality conditions us for this. Working to rewrite this narrative and break the bamboo ceiling is nothing new to us as AAPI. Seeing the numbers so starkly however was hugely disappointing.

With the rise in in Asian American hate incidents, we are realizing can no longer be bystanders. It has been incredible to see everyday AAPIs supporting each other and sharing their stories for the first time. It’s clear there are notable AAPIs all around us. So for this year’s AAPI Heritage Month, we bring to you 31 AAPIs and Allies you should know. We have seen every single one in action and are happy to vouch for them!

Mai Moua, Leadership Paradigms, CEO/President

There Mai was, on stage at the podium. For the first time there was a woman who looked like me, facilitating the room in a way that was so engaging and effective. The more I learned about Mai and her work in cross cultural leadership, the more it became clear, “I want to be her when I grow up.” Mai, thank you for being an inspiration for so many leaders, including myself.

Shen Pei, Choreographer, Dancer, Play-write, Artist

In 1993 Minnesota was blessed with world-renowned dance artist, Shen Pei. Rated by China as Choreographer of the First Rank. Her vision for intercultural arts inspired her to apply her 50 years of experience to American students and audiences. For 11 years she led CAAM Chinese Dance Theatre where I was able to study under her. She connect our movements to the hardships and joys of our people. She directed world stage premieres of Mulan Jr. and Monkey King. Now approaching 90 she’s still actively teaching and painting.

Joanne Giang, Founder Braindom, President NAAAP LA

Everyone’s been to that networking event where it seems like everyone already knows everyone, except for you. That’s where I found myself when Joanne and her bright smile and I connected. We immediately shared our mutual interests in helping individuals become empowered to be their best selves. The pandemic did not slow her down! So excited she’s leading a life of service, having launched Braindom and serving as President of the National Association for Asian American Professionals – Los Angeles.

Choy Leow, AIA, Consulting Architect, Lion Dance Master

“We are the heart beat of the lion” Leow LaoShi (Master Leow) would say as he taught percussion. His expertise and respect for Lion Dance brings people together to honor our cultural traditions and build community. A dedicated volunteer, never asking to be compensated. I’ve always thought of him as a supreme being. If you met him, I’d bet you’d agree. Exuding excellence, care, integrity and humor in all facets of his life. He’s also a skilled illustrator, custom card designer, mushroom gatherer and fellow Jeep lover.

Hui Wilcox, Ph.D. Professor St. Catherine University

Hui is a gentle, yet powerful translator across cultures, languages, and generations. I first met and danced with Hui at CAAM Chinese Dance Theater. Since then Hui has been engaging in intercultural education and community building projects, as well as dance activism deeply with Ananya Dance Theater. Hui is a Professor and Chair of Sociology at St. Catherine University and teaches in Women’s Studies and Critical Studies of Race/Ethnicity.

Jim Lee & Abraham Gin, Coach & Consultants, BSPOKE Founders

When the pandemic hit Jim was one of the first people to reach out and say “I’m building a community of coaches to democratize leadership training, especially for AAPIs, and I’d like you to join us.” Immediately I was sold. Their expertise and curriculum are transformative, providing leaders with actionable tools to find clarity in their personal and professional lives. Thank you Jim and Abe for the community you’ve created through this trying year.

Ananya Chatterjea, Founder Ananya Dance Theater

Ananya is a highly acclaimed choreographer, dancer, social justice warrior. Ananya Dance Theatre is the leading creator of feminist Contemporary Dance in the global arts and social justice movement. Invoking the work and dreams of BIPOC women and femmes, ADT radically reframes the ground on which we dance, inspiring audiences through visual and emotional engagement. Their work is provocative and one-of-a-kind. Catch a glimpse of their productions on their website here.

Francis Cheung, AAPA President & Karen Loong, AAPA Programs Director

When the pandemic hit, Francis and Karen didn’t hesitate. They immediately responded with quality, relevant, free online IdeaTalks – most of them in partnership with other organizations and guest speakers. I was invited to moderate an event and found them to be so easy and fun to work with: professional and fun big-thinkers. The IdeaTalks built a sense of support and hope when people were feeling so lost and uncertain. AAPA‘s mission is to inspire, promote, and cultivate professionals by providing a platform for mentoring, networking and work-culture insights.

Emily Liou, Cultivitae Founder, Career Coach

Emily and I connected over our shared interest to help professionals to find joy in their personal and professional lives. I was so impressed with her deep knowledge and experience at helping people land their dream job. Emily is a career happiness coach and job search expert who helps ambitious job seekers position themselves as dream candidates and land their ideal jobs. Not only is she great at what she does, she’s also one of the kindest people you’ll meet.

Saymoukda Duangphouxay Vongsay, Refugenius

Where do I start? Saymoukda is a shining star who has a CV for miles (see for yourself!). She is a highly acclaimed writer, who’s Lao American. She is a playwright and community activist. You’ll want to follow her posts as they are so refreshingly honest and brings humor to some of the most difficult and dark topics about our society today. She is a great example of someone who has stayed true to her beliefs (even when its controversial) and found success in the mainstream. If you’re an AAPI professional, you know how real this struggle can be.

Brian Kao, ISAIAH Director of Operations

I am often the only AAPI when I’m in rooms with senior leaders or the social impact space. It’s been wonderful over the years to have Brian, a personal friend and colleague to cheer each other on. We’ve both had those moments where we’ve felt the incredible burden of public sector responsibility and wondering if we can continue. I’m so proud of the work Brian has contributed as a nonprofit leader and advocate for diverse communities.

Sally Chan, Warner Brothers Vice President of Community Engagement

So many people dream of being on the funder side, especially in a corporate social responsibility (CSR) & social impact roles. Once you’re there you learn it isn’t easy with so many deserving causes and limited funding. What I love about Sally is she is always thinking creatively to maximize impact – sharing the resources and connections she has with others. She’s always referring good people to me. Thank you Sally for your support, creativity, and leadership!

Walk with Anime, MC, DJ, Host

It felt like speed dating. I was asked to do a FB Live interview with Anime, who I’ve never met. Our session was only a few minutes, but I left our interview enamored. Who was this smart, fierce, Asian personality? I quickly learned Anime has a heart and talent for hosting live events. I knew I wanted to work with her. We are now planning an August event together with AAPA (stay tuned!). In my last call with Anime, we spoke about online marketing (she has so much great advice!) but what stuck with me was her reminder that “the best advocate for you is yourself.”

Bryan Thao Worra, Laoatian American Writer and Poet

Bryan writes and explores poetry, science fiction, fantasy, horror, and culture from a Lao American perspective. He’s always encouraging others to tell their story, to find their voice, to get published. I first noticed Bryan for hosting groundbreaking Lao American Writing Summits when “decision makers” told him it couldn’t be done and frankly wasn’t needed. This digital nomad (proud starving artist), historian, connector is living outside of what societal expectations are. Making him fascinating and impossible to predict where his curiosities and art will take him next.

Linda Akutagawa, LEAP President & CEO

“Let’s meet in Little Tokyo!” I remember meeting with Linda on the bustling cafe patio to work on their strategic plan and everyone came up to say hello to her. It was clear Linda and her organization LEAP have been an anchor in our community. When the pandemic hit, they immediately shifted programs to real-time needs of AAPI professionals. It gives me goose bumps to think how their founding charter is still so incredibly relevant today: producing AAPI leaders who can advocate and speak on our own behalf.

Amy Ha Truong, D.D.S. Pure Dental

This incredible human being isn’t just my sister. She’s the owner of Pure Dental, a holistic dentistry, where the well-being of the mouth is recognized as an integral part of the health of the whole person. Dr. Truong is the first in our family to become a doctor. Rooted in an Eastern cultural upbringing, it’s no surprise that her approach is: “whole body wellness shouldn’t be reserved for holistic dentistry, it should be the standard in dentistry.”

Marcus Young, Behavioral Artist, Educator, Stage Director

Marcus’ professional roles and artistic endeavors have been ground breaking and inspiring. He is a behavioral and social practice artist making work for the stage, museums, and the public realm. He was a City Artist with Public Art Saint Paul from 2006 to 2015, where he helped shape public spaces, improve city systems, and deepen civic engagement. I had the pleasure of working with him and Shen Pei at CAAM Dance Theater where I learned how to couple creative art with professional discipline.

Rosie Chuong, Consultant & Founder API Curls

Rosie is a Southeast Asian poet, entrepreneur and Founder of API Curls, a multicultural movement about hair and identity. I know Rosie from her work in branding and communications. It’s been wonderful to see her embrace her identity and help others live their best lives through curls, confidence and career. She is on a mission, leading empowered women of all ages around the globe looking to live beyond the straight hair standard by embracing their natural curly hair patterns and textures with confidence.

Jan Masaoka, CEO CalNonprofits

For years, I only knew Jan Masaoka by name. Her name was on countless fundamental nonprofit management articles and books. She headlined so many conferences. I was star struck that day she came to my office at The Center for Nonprofit Management. We were planning an event together. She was so friendly and easy to work with. Having a prominent Asian female in the sector was so inspiring.

Richard Leong, DEI Consultant & Leadership Coach

Richard, where have you been all my life? This is someone I only know from online. He is a wealth of knowledge and experience in diversity, equity, and inclusion. So proud to know there is a strong Asian American consultant tackling DEI head on. His posts are so relevant, honest, and helpful. Richard has an M.Ed in Curriculum and Instruction from the University of Minnesota (Go Gophers!) and sits on the Board of Directors for Act to Change, a national Asian Pacific Islander American anti-bullying nonprofit.

Brianna (Frazier) Freiheit, Coach & Consultant

If I could clone people, I would clone Brianna. She makes everything work – and better than you could have imagined. I’ve had the pleasure of working with her in developing professional trainings, hosting conferences, and teaching in MBA programs. She’s competent, organized, and such a pleasure to work with. The one thing I have not joined her on is her Triathlon trainings – maybe I’ll start with one of the fitness courses she teaches first. She even does personal training!

Keith Lester, Former Superintendent & Education Administrator

It’s not everyday you get invited to work directly with the superintendent of schools. This is exactly what Keith did. Together we bridged social programs to students and families (even teachers). He had no ego, just a curious mind and a huge heart. We were able to bring together over 100 school and community partners to transform the public school district and build community. Thank you Keith for your faith in me. You allowed me to stand taller than I even knew possible.

Susanna Rinderle, Writer, Coach, Consultant

Susana first walked into my life 5 years ago as a DEI consultant with 20 years of experience, and she was GOOD. Despite that, she is honest that diversity trainings alone don’t work. Instead, she has design solutions for organizations who are committed to true, sustainable change. She’s sharp, witty and walks the talk, bringing diverse teams to her projects. Thank you Susana for inviting me to join you on some of your projects!

Andy Robinson, Consultant & Trainer & Dan Hoxworth, Nonprofit Executive

In 2020 I received an email from Dan Hoxworth. Dan is someone I’ve admired for years for his leadership at Neighborhood House working along side diverse communities. He shared Andy’s article on “Racism, privilege, facilitation, training – and sharing the wealth” where he commitment to lifting up diverse consultants. I reached out and he was true to his word. Andy has connected me with a number of people and opportunities, and featured me on his blog where he has a large committed following. Thank you Andy for helping to create space and for sharing your veteran insights on running a consulting firm.

Erin Tenanbaum, SCLN, Senior Managing Director

Erin’s leadership style is patient and inclusive. Always looking for ways to improve learning opportunities for leaders. She’s committed to helping “leaders across sectors leverage their human and financial resources as stewards of equitable change that fundamentally improve people’s lives.” As a leader of on of LA’s most prominent leadership programs, it’s great to see her ensure diverse experiences and perspectives are being represented. Thank you Erin for all of your work and finding ways to support me as an alumna (SCLN 2015!).

Jules Sanders & Liz Williams, Afara Founders

Thanks to Social Impact of Los Angeles (founded by Noa Oldak-Moradian), I was able to experience a session facilitated by Afara and was hooked. Led by two impressive founders, Jules and Liz, who are experienced consultants in their field. Afara’s vision is to dismantle personal bias through education and the sharing of lived experiences. I’m looking forward to joining their movement. Building an actionable, attainable and sustainable anti-racism platform that harnesses the power of the idea that TOGETHER WE GO FARTHER.

Christine Silvestre & Michael Kogutek, Executive Coach

So many people we meet say they’d be happy to connect or introduce people to us. Then there’s Christine who actually follows through, with a bunch of connections! One of them was Michael Kogutek, who is a an active volunteer at Executive Coaches of Orange County (ECofOC), providing no-cost coaching for nonprofit managers and leaders. What a great service. I was happy to do a free training for ECofOC. Not only was he so supportive of my training, he continues to support the work I do by sharing it with others. Thank you Michael for being a wealth of resources for coaches and nonprofit leaders!

Mazarine Treyz, Founder, Coach & Consultant

Mazarine is much more than a coach & consultant. Recently I’ve come to know her as a passionate social justice advocate. As an influencer and thought leader, she is leveraging her vast network to create spaces to uplift diverse professionals in our sector. I haven’t known her long, but already I know our values align and she’s the real thing. She recently invited me to join her on podcast, so be on a look out for that!

Thong Le Ha, Fearless Leader, Ha Family Entertainment Troupe

Bonus! Last but definitely not least is my mother. She’s endlessly positive but by no means naive. When I was two she sat me down, taught me how to sit up straight, and to sit like a lady. She said “We are Asian Immigrants. We’re going to have to work twice as hard and remember your actions will impact what people think of Asians.” She was a top volunteer in our community. Treating everyone like family. Our doors were always open, our dinner table full. She has been our unwavering leader, keeping our cultural traditions and the Lion Dance spirit alive. In 2008 she was honored by the State of MN with a ‘Lifetime Leadership Award.’

Let’s keep sharing, connecting, uplifting

If you read this far – thank you! Thank you for your interest in getting to know more Asian professionals and allies. Do follow the links to learn more about them and think of them if you’re looking for an expert in their field.

My intention for this list was to feature a range of people I have worked with, respect, and would recommend. Some are highly acclaimed, others are quiet warriors. This is by no means an exhaustive list. Let us know which AAPI professionals you loved learning about. Also please share with us if there is someone you admire that deserve some kudos! Let’s keep sharing and uplifting each other so that we are no longer invisible.

Looking to discuss your professional brand and career? Let’s connect about career coaching.