FIRESIDE CHAT

10:00 - 11:15

Helen Zia, renowned journalist, author, and activist, will lead us all to imagine our shared tomorrow as Asian American leaders.

Our favorite moderator, Trish Fontanilla, returns with her professional wisdom and clever humor.

Trish Fontanilla

Morning

Choose one from the following breakout sessions
Please note, schedule and timing are subject to change

11:30-12:30

01 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.

02 MENTAL HEALTH

Spotlight: Courage and Care to Say NO

Five years ago, entrepreneur Courtney Pong, courageously shut down an open mic night at her theater, standing against racist, misogynistic, and denigrating statements by several male comedians. Moderator Susan Chinsen, shares why Courtney is her role model, and dives in to find out how Courtney was (and still is) faced with a backlash of online attacks following the incident. Psychologist Catherine Vuky shares considerations for Asian women navigating through American society, alongside ways to empower and advocate for one’s voice as well as resources and self-care strategies.

03 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.

04 CAREER PATHS

Breaking Barriers: Shape Your Career Path Beyond Cultural Expectations

Sandra Ma will explore how cultural expectations—especially those shaped by a traditional Asian upbringing—can limit career growth. We'll dive into practical strategies for breaking free from these constraints, such as learning to be assertive, taking risks, and creating your own opportunities rather than just following "the rules." You’ll learn to share your wins, tell your unique story, and take bold steps to shape the career path you truly want.

05 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.

06

NETWORKING LUNCH

12:45 - 2:10

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.

We'll also have a book signing with Helen Zia at the beginning of our lunch session!

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 Rustanavibul, 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.

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.

09 WEALTH-BUILDING

Wealth Wisdom: Personal Finance 101 for Asian American Women

Minki Jung leads this comprehensive session on essential personal finance strategies tailored for Asian American women. Gain in-depth knowledge on budgeting, saving, investing, and securing your financial future. You'll leave empowered with the tools and confidence to take control of your money and build lasting wealth.

10 LION DANCING

Roar with Pride: Embracing Cultural Heritage through Lion Dancing

Reverend Cheng Imm Tan and other members of Gund Kwok will introduce you to the art and significance of lion dancing. Gund Kwok is the first Asian women lion dance troupe in the US! Experience the joy and energy of this traditional performance by learning a few moves while better understanding how GK empowers Asian women to break barriers and reclaim our cultural heritage.

11 IDENTITY

Spilling the T and Breaking Binaries: Asian American Womanhood Through Digital Stories & Dialogue

What does womanhood mean to you? Led by Candace Nguyen and Na Huynh, this session will discuss the complexities of growing both queer/trans and Asian American through digital storytelling and conversation. This session is open to everyone who wants to learn, share their own experiences, and connect. 

12 TRANSRACIAL LENS

We Are Enough: Exploring "Asianness" Through the Transracial Adoptee Lens

Kathy Haeng-Hee Eow, Charlotte Cotter, and Maya Bergamasco will lead a conversation on the AAPI identity and belonging within the wider AAPI community as transracial adoptees. Through open dialogue, we'll discuss the notion of "Asianness" and the role transracial adoptee communities play in our journeys toward Being Enough. We welcome anyone who identifies as a transracial adoptee. Please respect that due to the nature of the conversation, this is an adoptee-only space.

Final

Choose one from the following breakout sessions
Please note, schedule and timing are subject to change

3:30-4:30

13 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.

14 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.

15 ART & NARRATIVES

Art as Activism: Reclaiming Narratives through Creativity

Ngoc-Tran Vu, Alison Yueming Qu, and Princess Moon, 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.

16 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.

Closing Remarks

Join your newfound friends for an optional casual dinner after the closing remarks!

4:30-5:00