SATURDAY
NOVEMBER 9, 2024
SIMMONS UNIVERSITY
BOSTON, MA
The conference for Asian American women leaders of all ages
EARLY BIRD DISCOUNT ON THE FIRST 50 TICKETS
WITH CODE: EARLYBIRD20
What’s Aawil Conference?
Connect. Inspire. Grow Together.
The AAWIL Conference is the first and largest conference dedicated to career and leadership development for Asian American girls and women.
First held in 2004 by ASPIRE, the Asian American Women in Leadership (AAWIL) Conference is a vibrant one-day conference that draws Asian American women and girls to connect, inspire, and grow together.
Through talks, workshops, and discussions, the conference provides a forum for a cross-generational community of Asian American girls and women to share experiences and learn from one another.
2024 theme: Limitless Courage
Our 14th AAWIL Conference celebrates the limitless courage of Asian American women leaders - past, present, and future.
Asian American women have been breaking the bamboo ceilings for centuries, but it has been especially prominent the past decade. From actors to politicians, CEOs to champions, we will offer a unique space to nurture and amplify our collective courage. Together, we'll inspire, empower, and uplift one another - proving that our potential knows no limits.
2024 Agenda
01
Helen Zia, renowned journalist, author, and activist, will lead us all to imagine our shared tomorrow as Asian American leaders.
Our favorite MC, Trish Fontanilla, returns with her professional wisdom and clever humor.
Helen Zia
Trish Fontanilla
Morning
Choose one from the following breakout sessions
Please note, schedule and timing are subject to change
11:30-12:30
02 ACTIVISM
From Bystander to Upstander: Taking Action for Positive Change
Join Tram Nguyen, Nicole Eigbrett, Jessica Tang, and Emily Goroza, moderated by Danielle Kim, as they discuss effective strategies for driving positive change in your community. Learn how to identify issues, mobilize resources, and take meaningful action to create lasting impact beyond the workplace.
Tram Nguyen, Nicole Eigbrett, Jessica Tang, Emily Goroza, Danielle Kim (moderator)
03 MENTAL HEALTH
Breaking the Silence: Mental Wellness in AAPI Communities
Courtney Pong and Catherine Vuky, moderated by Susan Chinsen, will guide you through culturally sensitive approaches to mental health. Gain valuable insights and practical tools for fostering well-being in AAPI communities, addressing stigma, and promoting open conversations about mental health.
Courtney Pong, Catherine Vuky, Susan Chinsen (moderator)
04 PUBLIC SPEAKING
Speak Up and Be Heard: How to Speak Up at Work Without Fear Of Being Judged
Led by Mary Cheyne, this workshop addresses the challenges faced by Asian-American women in professional settings. Learn powerful techniques to speak up confidently, bypass your inner critic, and express your ideas without fear of judgment. Discover strategies to overcome interruptions, claim credit for your contributions, and advocate for yourself effectively. Gain practical tools to enhance your visibility and influence in the workplace, even under pressure.
Mary Cheyne
05 CAREER PATHS
Charting Your Course: Navigating Career Crossroads
Sandra Ma shares her expertise on making informed career decisions. Discover strategies for identifying your strengths, aligning your passions with professional opportunities, and creating a fulfilling career path that resonates with your personal and professional goals.
Sandra Ma
06 PERSONAL BRANDING
You, Inc.: Crafting Your Authentic Personal Brand
Lee Ann Chan guides you through developing a compelling personal brand, with a special focus on LinkedIn and online strategies. Learn how to showcase your unique strengths, values, and experiences to stand out in your field and create lasting impressions in the digital professional landscape.
Lee Ann Chan
06
NETWORKING LUNCH
Seize this unique opportunity to connect with influential leaders and changemakers. Engage in meaningful conversations, share experiences, and build valuable relationships that can shape your professional journey and community involvement.
Afternoon
Choose one from the following breakout sessions
Please note, schedule and timing are subject to change
2:20-3:20
07 ENTREPRENEURSHIP
Navigating Your Leadership Journey: Personal Stories of Growth and Impact
Candice Wu, Grace Lee, and Irene Li, moderated by Chareeda Rustanvil, share their personal leadership journeys. Explore the challenges, growth opportunities, and pivotal moments that shaped their paths. Gain insights into developing your authentic leadership style and making a meaningful impact in your field.
Candice Wu, Grace Lee, Irene Li, Chareeda Rustanvil (moderator)
08 STEM ENTREPRENEURS
STEM the Tide: Women Leaders in Science and Tech
Elizabeth Wu, Will Cao, and Sally Wang Liang, moderated by Lesley Chan, offer insights into thriving in STEM fields. Be inspired by their success stories and learn strategies for overcoming barriers in male-dominated industries.
Elizabeth Wu, Will Cao, Sally Wang Liang, Lesley Chan (moderator)
09 WEALTH-BUILDING
Wealth Wisdom: Financial Empowerment for Asian American Women
Minki Jung leads this session on essential financial planning and investment strategies. Gain knowledge on building wealth, managing finances, and securing your financial future with considerations tailored to Asian American women.
Minki Jung
10 LION DANCING
Roar with Pride: Embracing Cultural Heritage through Lion Dancing
Gund Kwok introduces you to the art and significance of lion dancing. Experience the joy and energy of this traditional performance, understanding its cultural importance and how it connects us to our heritage.
Gund Kwok
Final
Choose one from the following breakout sessions
Please note, schedule and timing are subject to change
3:30-4:30
11 YOGA & SOUND BATH
Mindful Moments: Rejuvenation through Yoga and Sound Bath
Led by Gigi Kim, this session offers a rejuvenating experience through guided meditation, stretching, and sound therapy. Learn practical techniques to incorporate mindfulness into your daily life, reducing stress and enhancing overall well-being.
Gigi Kim
12 HOMEOWNERSHIP
Home Sweet Home: Navigating the Path to Homeownership
Bonnie Lai, Nancy Lee, and Wenfei Chen guide you through the home buying process. Understand financial considerations, navigate potential challenges, and learn strategies for achieving homeownership, with insights specific to the Asian American community.
Bonnie Lai, Nancy Lee, Wenfei Chen
13 ART & NARRATIVES
Art as Activism: Reclaiming Narratives through Creativity
Tran Vu Arts and Alison Yueming Qu, moderated by Audrey Paek, explore the intersection of art and social change. Discover how creative expression can be a powerful tool for amplifying marginalized voices and driving cultural transformation.
Tran Vu Arts, Alison Yueming Qu, Audrey Paek (moderator)
14 IMPOSTER SYNDROME
Silencing the Inner Critic: Strategies to Overcome Imposter Syndrome
Farah Bala leads this empowering session on combating self-doubt and building confidence. Learn practical techniques to recognize and overcome imposter syndrome, enabling you to fully embrace your capabilities and achievements in your professional life.
Farah Bala
Closing Remarks
Join your newfound friends for an optional casual dinner after the closing remarks!
4:30-5:00
2024 Speakers
Our diverse lineup reflects the multifaceted lives of Asian American women. From career insights to personal growth, relationships to mental health, our speakers address the full spectrum of experiences that shape our identities and aspirations.
Assistant Professor, Clinical Psychology Department & Director, Asian Mental Health Concentration at Williams James College
Creative Producer at ArtsEmerson & Director of the Boston Asian American Film Festival
Tickets
EARLY BIRD DISCOUNT ON THE FIRST 50 TICKETS
Use this code at checkout:
EARLYBIRD20
Student
High School
$30 $10
Higher Education:
College, Masters, PhD
$60 $40
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Professional
$120 $100
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Our tiered ticketing is intended to keep this conference accessible to all who are interested. For group ticketing and other inquiries, please contact us here.
Sponsors
Thank you to our sponsors for being a pivotal part of bringing the 2024 AAWIL Conference to life!
If your organization aligns with our mission,
become a sponsor!
PRESENTING SPONSOR
Simmons University’s Asian Students Association fosters friendship and community through events, resources, and more. Come join us!
GOLD SPONSORS
Brown Advisory works to provide first-rate investment performance, strategic advice, and the highest level of client service.
Rockland Trust Bank is your full-service Community bank. At Rockland Trust each relationship matters. No matter large or small, old or new, we are committed to serving and meeting every customer’s needs.
BRONZE SPONSORS
Dedham Savings provides a complete array of banking services for individuals and businesses, as well as a sophisticated set of digital banking and cash management services.
Asian Pacific Islander (APIA) Scholars provides resources that increase access to higher education for Asian American and Pacific Islander students.
Rozzie Square Theater builds communities and unites people through laughter while making improv accessible and useful.
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ASPIRE, Inc.
P.O. BOX 51037
BOSTON, MA 02205
Conference@girlsaspire.org