The AsiaConnect Blog

Funding the “Revolution”: Boston Women’s Fund

admin — Sun, 09 Mar 2008 21:27:28 +0000

Many community-based organizations strive arduously to promote social and economic justice and empower disadvantaged groups such as the poor and the disabled. At the end of the day, though, creating a social-change revolution takes money. And in the Boston region, one nonprofit organization, the Boston Women’s Fund, is in the business of doling out dollars to "fund the revolution." BWF raises money from donors and awards grants to area organizations that work with women and girls to promote social change. It also has a few programs of its own, including Young Sisters for Justice in Philanthropy, which teaches young women about social justice and philanthropy, and is organized by Melissa Cariño, 29, the young women's program coordinator at the Boston Women's Fund. Learn more about Melissa and BWF in this week's Nonprofit Spotlight.

Non-Profit

Boston Women’s Fund

Founded

December 1981

Websites

www.bostonwomensfunc.org www.myspace.com

Name

Melissa Cariño
Young Women's Program Coordinator/Organizer

Age

Hometown

San Francisco & the Bay Area, California

Current residence

Boston & Lowell, Massachusetts

Education

Cornell University
Urban & Regional Planning / Community Development
2002

University of California at Berkeley
Legal Studies / Social Policy / City Planning
1999

Moreau High School
College Prep
1996

Work Experience

Boston Women's Fund, Young Women's Program
Coordinator/Organizer
2006 - present

The Community Software Lab
Board Member
2006-present

Housing & Urban Development
Community-University Peer Reviewer
2003 - present

United Teen Equality Center
Director of Development + Youth Development Director
2004 - 2006

Boston Women's Fund
Allocations Committee Grant Reviewer
2003- 2005

Metropolitan Boston Housing Partnership
Family Self-Sufficiency Program Representative + Resource Committee Chair
2002 - 2004

Cornell University's Public Service Center
School Programs Advisor
2001 - 2002

Enterprise Foundation
Neighborhood Coordinator / Organizer
1999 - 2000

The City of Union City (CA)
Planning Assistant / Planning Specialist
1997 - 1999

Ethnicity

Filipina-American

About Boston Women's Fund

The Boston Women's Fund supports community-based organizations run by women and girls in the Greater Boston Area. We work with low-income women; women of color; women with disabilities; older women; lesbian, bisexual, and transgender women; immigrant and refugee women; and girls who are working to create a society based on racial, social, and economic justice. The Boston Women's Fund raises money from a broad base of donors across economic backgrounds to provide grants and develop programs that strengthen the grassroots initiatives and leadership of women and girls.

BWF Core Values:

We believe that change starts at the grassroots level, and systemic change is necessary to achieve social justice.
We believe that power and wealth must be redistributed to attain equity and systemic change.
We believe that the fight for women's rights is an integral part of a larger struggle to end oppression based on race, class, gender, age, religion, ability, or sexual orientation.
We believe that all movements fighting racism must be racially and culturally diverse in both membership and leadership if progressive change is to occur.
We believe that women and girls can and must be leaders within all movements if progressive change is to occur.
We believe that educating and organizing a diverse donor base is a critical strategy for amassing broad support for social-change movements.
We strive to reflect our commitment to shared leadership, equity, and cultural diversity in all aspects of our organization's operations.

Tell us how BWF affects the Asian community

I believe BWF affects the Asian community in two significant ways:

Allocating grants to organizations/programs
Researching Asian women's perspective on giving

The ultimate goal of our grant-makign is social & economic justice. BWF's constituents include low-income women; women of color; women with disabilities; older women; lesbian, bisexual, and transgender women; immigrant and refugee women; and girls. There are many intersections of our constituents with the Asian community. The following are examples of organizations we've supported, who primarily work in Asian communities: Asian American Resource Workshop, Chinese Progressive Association, Matahari: Eye of the Day, Navarasa Dance Theater, Southeast Asian Bilingual Advocates Inc., and ASPIRE.

Our Public Spirit is a project BWF has taken on with several partners, including The Kellogg Foundation, Haymarket People's Fund, & Women's Theological Center. The project focuses on the giving patterns of women of color, specifically African-American and Asian women. By understanding giving patterns through focus groups, the project can provide resources and tools to those communities. A publication, "Expanding The Circle," was completed last Spring and is available on our website.

We are now looking at opportunities to raise awareness around philanthropy and social change philanthropy (giving to those who are organizing for positive social change). We hope to spearhead giving circles within BWF through the project.

What are your day-to-day responsibilities?

My day-to-day responsibilities vary a lot. Because our organization is very small, we all play a role in managing our office space because we donot have a full-time staff person in that position right now. We also support each other's work at various times (i.e. events, donor visits, etc). And I coordinate volunteers and interns who want to support BWF.

Most of my responsibilities fall under BWF programming, specifically with our Allocations (grant-making) Committee and the Young Sisters For Justice in Philanthropy (YSFJP) program.

As an experienced Allocation Committee member (prior to working with BWF as a staff member), I assist in facilitation and coordination of our Allocations process. The allocations process includes screening out eligible applicants, working with a diverse group of community activists, and coordinating young women's involvement in the process.

YSFJP takes up most of my time. YSFJP is a 2-year program where young women (ages 15-20) commit to learning about social justice, political education, philanthropy, the not-for-profit sector, and community organizing. We use a shared leadership and popular education model in our work. I try my best to make this a holistic youth program - meeting them where they are, checking in personally, and offering support & guidance whenever I can. This is a very intense program but it is also very enriching! I have to admit with 1 year under our belts, I am soul satisfied and confident that each Young Sister will continue the efforts for social justice well into the future.

What are the most notable milestones for BWF?

Two of the most notable milestones for BWF include giving over $4 million as grants to organizations/programs in the Greater Boston community. We have also just recently completed our 2000 Club Initiative, which was an innovative grassroots fundraising project. The members pledged $500 (to be paid in 5 years) to start BWF's $1 million endowment. On top of this, a committed BWF donor decided to match funds raised for a total of $2 million.

BWF was one of the first foundations to engage a girl grant-making group back in 1997. And while BWF's YSFJP program is a bit different from the original Young Sister For Justice (YSFJ) program, we still promote intergenerational decision-making processes in our grant-making.

What would you say is BWF's niche?

I believe BWF's niche is social change philanthropy or simply, "funding the revolution." Out of all philanthropic dollars given in the USA, only around 3% is given to social change programs/organizations and less is given to women.

BWF's mission is founded on a social justice analysis, and we put our money (and our donors) and resources where our mouth is. While we know that social services are needed, we also realize that social services are not necessarily dealing with the root cause of a problem. Through supporting grassroots community organizing, we are playing a role in empowering those who have been marginalized for too long.

What's the biggest challenge that BWF faces?

I think the biggest challenge we have now is sustaining our donors well into the future. Some of our donors may be "aging out," and we are faced with how to engage newer, younger donors to invest in social change philanthropy.

What's in store for its future?

BWF has already conducted organizational assessments and prepared a development map. So we anticipate organizational growth and increased social impact in the next few years. This will mean additional staff power as well as more funds to give away to our community.

YSFJP is looking forward to impacting other young people on social justice, civic engagement, organizing, and social change philanthropy.

I would also love to hear from folks who may be interested in hiring me since I envision veteran Young Sisters to step into my current position in the future.

What sets YSFJP apart from other programs that support young women?

I believe the following characteristics make YSFJP unique from typical youth and young women's programming:

Intergenerational decision-making
Shared leadership
Popular education
Political development & social justice analysis
Professional skills for philanthropy,
Organizational development and fund raising
Communications
Activism
Community organizing
Programmatic development
Not-for-profit organizations, and other social justice work

Whats the best way to keep a competitive edge in your field?

I think we need to be more creative with our fundraising and grant-making. For example, we have funded constituents and not issues. However, certain issues - for example, youth violence - are coming up, and BWF wants to respond somehow, someway. I also believe giving circles will also play a major role in BWF's future.

Do you have a guiding principle in life?

Lyrics from one of my favorite songs: "Live the life you love; Love the life you live."

What is your yardstick of success?

Especially in my youth work and community organizing experience, my yardstick of success is based on the empowerment and leadership of the people I work with.

Any goal yet to be achieved?

I have to admit that I love learning new things and visiting new places. So I definitely want to travel the world - but not as a tourist. I want to work side by side with youth and communities who are working on meaningful, positive social change campaigns.

Best practical advice you can offer our readers

Practice philanthropy! Not all of us can or want to devote our full-time jobs to non-profit organizations, but all of us can still be philanthropists. Whether it is giving funds or resources, volunteering your time or talents, everyone can play a role in strengthening our communities. And why practice philanthropy? Because we are connected to each other. "No one is free when others are oppressed."

What are some of the supportive words that you have received from a family member or friend on your venture?

Take care of myself. Enjoy life. It is very easy to accommodate others in this work. It is also very easy to burn out. But if I take care of myself, I can sustain my energy and passions for this type of work.

Who is your Mentor(s) and why?

I know this should go the other way around, but my strongest mentors have honestly been the young people I have worked with over the years. I have learned so much from them and about myself.

What motivated you to get started?

Being a child of immigrant parents, I knew how it was to be discriminated against and the many challenges we faced. So this definitely played a role in where I am now. But I also feel like this fire has always been in me. When learning about the Civil Rights movement in the 2nd grade, I grew very upset about the numerous injustices happening.

What do you like best about what you do?

What I do is a beautiful fusion of my passions: social justice, youth work, grassroots organizing, and social change philanthropy. I love the fact that I am walking my talk, despite the challenges that still exist.

What do you like least about what you do?

As is the nature with this type of work (unfortunately), there's usually not enough resources to make the most impact or to reach our potential. Many times we are understaffed and take on too much - a real battle of quantity and quality.

In your opinion, why is the YSFJP's form of outreach so important?

I believe that with peer-to-peer outreach, we can help engage other young people to realize the importance of philanthropy in their own lives and their communities. We want people to reclaim philanthropy and to identify as a philanthropist. Philanthropy is no longer just for the rich to give to charities. It is and can be a way of life.

At age 10, what did you want to be when you grew up?

A veterinarian - until I realized I was allergic to dogs and cats.

What was your first job?

Besides baby-sitting or working at a museum in Berkeley, CA, I worked at my local mall in a watch store. I got pretty good at changing watch batteries.

What is your biggest pastime outside of work?

Traveling and exploring new things. I also love to swim and dance.

Name a person you are most interested in meeting and why?

Tanya Stephens: Tanya is one of the most conscious & political musical female artists in Jamaican dancehall. I would love to know what inspires her and how she deals with people who disagree with her lyrics or her political/personal values, especially in the Jamaican community. For example, heterosexism and homophobia is rampant in the Jamaican community yet Tanya sings and speaks out against this.

Name a Leader in business you are most interested in meeting and why?

Any business leader who is interested in social responsibility and social change philanthropy programs. I would love to influence a corporation that is really invested in their philanthropic giving and interested in making a difference in people's lives by dealing with root causes.

Please share three interesting facts about yourself

Used to play the tenor saxaphone - interested in starting again
Can't wait to be an aunt...then a mom
I drive a bright green wagon, my own "green monster"

Please share three characteristics that describe you

Passionate
Versatile
Thoughtful

What are three of your greatest passions and how do they drive you?

Youth Power : as a young person not so long ago, I know how it is to not have a voice because of my age. My current work focuses on youth power.
Traveling/Exploring: learning about new things inspires me.
Sense of Community: building & strengthening relationships with other people, also striking up conversations with strangers.

What is your favorite movie?

Favorite movie: Sex & Lucia (Lucia y el Sexo)

Besides the work you do with YSFJP; what is your favorite cause?

Two of them, community policing programs and the intersection of the environment with humans

If you had one wish for the world, what would it be?

Conflict resolution without violence

If you could be contacted by anyone, who would you like to be contacted by?

Other folks who are interested in engaging young people in the social justice movement and philanthropy. I would love to see more young people stepping up and sustaining the work that has already been done by our ancestors and elders.

Credits

Interview by Alexander Grant
Introduction by Preeti Aroon
Edited by Sabine Alam

Business Boy Wonder & Advisor William Choi

admin — Sat, 09 Feb 2008 06:59:27 +0000

During his time as an entrepreneur, William Choi learned from experience that even people with a high degree of business acumen still need a "right-hand man" to give them trusted advice that will take their companies to the next level. With that realization, William, 32, founded CB Williams Business Advisors Group, which provides firms with the wise counsel they need to be successful. He assists businesses that include start-ups, companies in distress, and firms that want to expand. Whether the company needs help executing a strategy internationally or changing something within the firm itself, William’s consultancy is there to meet clients’ needs. To learn more about William, his consulting firm, and the personal travels that have taken him from Damascus to North Korea, check out this week’s Young & Professional Profile.

Company

CB Williams BusinessAdvisors Group

Founded

2004

Website

www.website.com

Name

William B. Choi
Founder & Managing Partner

Age

Hometown

Vancouver, BC, Canada

Current residence

Vancouver, BC, Canada
Seoul, South Korea

Education

University of Western Ontario
London, Ontario, Canada
BA Honors
1993

Yonsei University
Seoul, S. Korea
MBA, International Management
1999

Keio University
Tokyo, Japan
Graduate School of Business & Commerce, Research Fellow
1999

Work Experience

CB Williams Business Advisors Group
Managing Partner
2004-current

Ethnicity

Korean

About the company

Founded in 2004 due to the gap between independent consultants and global consulting firms, CB Williams Business Advisors Group identified the desperate need for flexible services between these two worlds. Companies of all sizes in need of help and advice had only "packaged" options rather than purely strategic ones that fulfilled their specific needs, for a lean customized advisory. On one hand, SME's (Small-Medium Size Enterprises) always longed for a rich network of resources and wise counsel to help them. On the other, Fortune 500 companies incurred high costs to access such services in order to retain abundant expert advice and excellence in a fiercely competitive global economy. CB Williams was born to achieve the innovative bridge business owners and companies have longed for. We tap into the client's greatest potential identifying innovative growth towards change in the market place, whether executing transnational strategies in the global arena or change within the organization itself.

We are versatile, and every client is our priority. Our team of 4000 top experts with impeccable track records of success with Fortune 500 companies as well as SMEs in over 18 countries, are at our clients' service. We belong to the new generation - young, smart, vibrant, brimming with energy, passion, and vision, shaping our industry in a changing world for the new millennium. With expertise in every industry spanning every business type imaginable, we bring truly valuable results equating excellence for our clients with integrity and confidence. This is the New World - the innovation and forward thinking of consulting modernity.

What are your day-to-day responsibilities?

I am on the road quite a bit, moving from client site to client. Duties vary from impementing and advising on strategic processes with the CEO and/or entrepreneur, to working with top level management and managing my team of consultants on a project. Many times I help the client negotiate their positioning with third parties such as suppliers, partners, banks, investors or existing interested parties. The most exciting days are when complicated situations arise and it is imperative to have it fixed in a short period of time.

Most notable milestones

Helped take a small local company with raw production to a global brand resulting in significant value-add, penetrating brand new markets, winning a prestigious international award and being the first in the country's history.
Led the strategic team of a Fortune 500 company gain significant market positioning in a new market.
Signficantly decreased cost of production to an SME and increased its output by 24% within 6 months.
Differentiated a company's reputation in a fiercely competitive industry by introducing new products not yet introduced to the client's specific market, long before being discovered by a competitor.
Negotiated the only accepted win-win proposal for commercial activity and industry development between high level government, the communities and towns being affected, and the business.
Helped an ailing but brilliant internet company clean up its internal systems and management within a matter of months. Now it is in excellent position to aggressively launch taking social networking to another level.
Negotiated and structured successful production contract for a client "on the brink" with one of the largest food manufacturers and distributors in the world.
Managed and conceptualized from scratch the first and only production line of its type in the world, catapulting the company to instant unique positioning gaining an innovative reputation within it's own industry.

What's the niche?

Provide top level service with top level results. There are only two types of consultants in our world - the independent and the multinational. Independents lack strategic high profile resources and people, and prominent multinational firms have incredible overhead making smart, yet inexperienced MBA's advise the direction of multimillion dollar companies. We are the best of both worlds, providing the ideal of which clients expect. The model implemented will hopefully change the face or make a significant impact that will define consulting over time as we expand into other countries.

We are also on call 24/7. We do not limit ourselves in servicing our client. Especially for entrepreneurs and leaders of organizations, we are their most trusted advisor, and the best ideas and strategic minds arise early in the morning, in the evening, or over the weekend. Entrepreneurs don't have time to come up with their most brilliant ideas during the fast pace of the day. Our culture is molded much to identify with the heart of the entrepeneur, aligning our world very much with theirs. Because there are only 24 hours in a day, we must choose our clients just as they choose us.

What's the biggest challenge?

On the merchant banking side, the biggest challenge is to find the "home run" start-up company winners. The idea and business model would be great, but there are skeletons in the closet that are not identified until after the fact and it would take us longer to achieve the goals outlined in the business plan than we would have normally expected. There is no true and effective criteria for measuring a company's potential growth except for using my own instincts. We have worked vey hard to create specific tools to help us make our "home-run" decisions.

What's in store for the future?

We plan on opening offices in Seoul, South Korea, and the US. We also plan on offering real business professional programs to help employees and executives who are lacking in their performance due to alcoholism or other areas of "addiction" in the work place. The corporate world believes that personal and business life remain separate. The reality is, there is no separation of the two no matter how a business culture tries to cut it. There are tons of programs for marketing, sales, and "how tos" for business, whereas we offer a real comprehensive confidential program that pertains to life and that is effective and simple, increasing work performance signficantly whereby respecting the individual and attacking the roots of the problem to gain back their freedom and excitement when they first came on the job. There is no bridge that recognizes the gap of this very serious problem that is never talked about either because of embarrassment or pride, resulting in having developed a professional program to address it without disturbing the reputation of the employees or the company.

Best way to keep a competitive edge

There is always a need or demand in the marketplace, you just need to exploit it, and add SIGNIFICANT value or experience.

Guiding principle in life

Give hope to people and everyone around you.

Yardstick of success

As long as I am moving forward with action, I am always succeeding. There is no such thing as failure, mistakes, or delays, they are only events, it is not an identity.

Goal yet to be achieved

Start an academic and arts scholarship fund for orphaned kids in Korea, and expand it in orphanages across the globe.

Best practical advice

This morning is gone. I can never reclaim it. The future must be exciting and unknowing. Every minute must add value, whatever it is. Be yourself, have fun, and don't sweat the small stuff. The minute behind you is gone, the minute before you awaits.

Supportive words from a family member or friend on your venture

You will be succesful.

Mentor(s) and why?

Mr. Ahn Kyung-Tae, the CEO of PricewaterhouseCoopers Korea. He believed in me from day one and took me under his wing, it was his inspiration that catapulted my potential. Mr. John Blackmore, Headmaster of St. George's School when I was in junior high. Plain and simple, he trusted me that no matter what, I'd make the right decisions and learn from my mistakes. He taught me valuable lessons for life not through lecture, but through events, and powerful stories he would tell me. Stories that remain vivid in my mind, and have had a considerable impact on the way I conduct business.

What motivated you to get started?

During my journey as an entrepreneur, I learned, not only from my faith, but also from business dealings that no matter how bright a person may be, one always needs a right hand man "to take it to the next level". Perhaps I had been lucky in business, but I longed for a trusted advisor. None were to be found, when I concluded that the reason why most entrepreneurs fail in business, rather than succeed, is because of this lack of advice.

From the core of my entrepreneurial experience, CB Williams Business Advisors Group fills this need, and today we have helped many start-up, distressed, and companies on the verge of expansion, succeed and experience not just incremental increases, but dramatic growth.

Like best about what you do?

Span all industries. The versatility of my work and being able to help any business owner's challenge in whatever situation, resulting in powerful growth and change.

Like least about what you do?

I can't think of anything right now, however, best to ask me again in a couple of months!

At age 10, what did you want to be when you grew up?

The next Pavarotti (seriously!), having won several awards in junior arias.

What was your first job?

Sweeping the floors and grunt work at the family's manufacturing plant.

Biggest pastime outside of work

Music and Jazz. I loved playing my tenor saxophone in the big band and being in one.

Person most interested in meeting and why?

The quiet people who have made a difference in other's peoples lives, but we never hear about.

Leader in business most interested in meeting and why?

The quiet leaders who have made a difference to society we don't hear about.

Three interesting facts about yourself

I want to smile and laugh as much as possible.
I love travelling by backpack and without a fixed schedule.
Inviting people over to my place for parties and events.

Three characteristics that describe you

Motivated
Enthusiastic
Synergetic

Three greatest passions

Orphans
Life
To make a positive difference in someone's life.

Favorite book

The Book of Proverbs

Favorite cause

Orphanages. I want to help raise up a generation of talented men and women who will give hope and be a role model for the orphans of the next generation.

You have traveled to many places around the world. How did traveling affect you?

90% of the people in this world are good.

What was your most memorable experience from your travels?

Dahab, Mt. Sinai sunrise, Pyramids of Giza, Siwa Oasis, Alexandria, Petra, sleeping under the stars in The Wadi Rum, celebration in Aleppo, Damascus, the rainbow town of Hoi-An, Saigon, secluded beaches of Vietnam, Turkey, and Greece. The seven churches of Revelation, Paris, Monaco, Rome, Interlaken, Cinque Terre, Los Cabos, Bali, North Korea as NGO, Seoul, Korea.

In your opinion, what does it mean to be an entrepreneur?

Being the best of who you are.

Is there anything else you'd like to add?

Would like to say hi to my mom and dad.

Who would you like to be contacted by?

A company that is a startup, in distress, or seeking some advice and input, we'd love to hear from you. I really enjoy interacting with other young, smart, and driven entrepreneurs who want to make a positive difference in the world.

Credits

Interview by Candice Vance
Introduction by Preeti Aroon
Edited by Sabine Alam

A Lawyer With a Life: Sandra Chong

admin — Fri, 23 Nov 2007 04:22:34 +0000

Do you think that the life of a lawyer is working long hours until 2 a.m. and having your accomplishments measured by your "billable hours?" It doesn't have to be that way. There are alternatives. You can be a lawyer and still have a life, as Sandra T.M. Chong most certainly proves. As Assistant General Counsel for the San Diego Unified School District, she provides legal counsel on school construction, labor compliance, student rights, and other issues. She also negotiates settlements to litigation and disputes, as well as identifies potential liabilities. But her life isn't limited to being a lawyer. Sandra, 35, loves eating and exercising, so in addition to dishing out legal advice, she also regularly serves up restaurant reviews and exercise tips. To learn more about Sandra, her career, and her extracurricular activities, check out this week's Young & Professional Profile.

District

San Diego Unified School District

Founded

1854

Website

www.sandi.net

Name

Sandra T.M. Chong
Assistant General Counsel

Age

Hometown

Honolulu, Hawaii

Current residence

San Diego, California

Education

U.C. Davis School of Law
Juris Doctorate
(1999)

U.C. San Diego
B.A. in Political Science
(1994)

U.C. San Diego
B.A. in Economics
(1994)

Work Experience

San Diego Unified School District
Assistant General Counsel
2003-present

San Diego Unified School District
Proposition MM Staff Attorney
2002-2003

University of California at San Diego
Instructor
1999-2001
2006-present

Mira Costa Community College
Instructor
1999 to present

Cal State San Marcos
Instructor
2004 to present

McKenna Long & Aldridge, LLP
Associate
2000-2002

Hillyer & Irwin
Associate
1999-2000

Hillyer & Irwin
Law Clerk
1998

California Court of Appeal
Third District
Judicial Extern
1998

US Attorney’s Office Eastern District
Civil Law Clerk
1997

California State Legislature
Legislative Consultant
1994-1996

Ethnicity

Chinese

About the company

The San Diego Unified School District (the "District") serves nearly 130,000 students, and has marked more than 150 years of service to San Diego's children. It is the second largest district in California, and eighth largest urban district in the United States. The student population is extremely diverse, representing more than 15 ethnic groups and over 60 languages and dialects.

Since its founding on July 1, 1854, the district has grown from a small, rented school building with one teacher to its current state—more than 250 educational facilities with 14,555 full-time equivalent staff positions representing more than 15,800 employees. After the federal government with the military, the District is the largest employer in San Diego County. Its educational facilities include 114 elementary schools, 23 middle schools, 27 high schools, 34 charter schools, and 18 atypical or alternative schools.

In 1998, 78% of San Diego voters passed Proposition MM, a $1.51 billion bond measure that is funding repairs at 161 schools and construction of 15 new schools. Proposition MM is the largest active public works program in San Diego County.

The District's mission is to promote teaching and learning. Its five goals are as follows:

Accelerate gains in student performance
Provide safe, orderly and well-maintained schools
Strengthen parent, community and higher education support
Boost employee morale
Secure adequate funding for schools

The District works with private and public agencies to accomplish educational excellence and equity to all students.

What are your day-to-day responsibilities?

I provide day-to-day legal and general counsel in construction, business, real estate, general contracting, labor compliance, and all aspects of public works and facilities management with specific focus on projects funded by Proposition MM (see above). I also counsel principals, teachers, and school site staff on personal injury, student rights, employment and disciplines, constitutional law, and general education law. I render legal opinions on District's powers and procedures; draft, review, and approve various legal documents; and negotiate settlements to litigation, claims, and disputes regarding construction and employment matters. I manage outside counsel; perform risk assessments and identify potential liabilities; and provide legal services on special projects as requested by General Counsel, Board of Education, and Superintendent.

Most notable milestones

In 2007, San Diego Metropolitan Magazine honored me as one of its "40 under 40" outstanding business and civic leaders of the community.

In 2005, ASIA Heritage Magazine named me as a finalist for its Achievement in Community Service for Government and Legal Affairs Award.

In 2005, San Diego County Taxpayers Association (SDCTA) honored the District's Proposition MM, the $1.5 billion bond measure, with the Grand Golden Watchdog Award, its highest honor given for programs in San Diego County that exemplify efficient use of tax dollars.

What's the niche?

I try to be "indispensable," very responsive, and approachable. I give the extra 110% with a smile and a positive attitude, and I even anticipate, with success, what needs to be done and when so that the client notices when I am not at work. In addition to providing accurate, timely legal advice, I provide a common sense approach to problem solving.

I am also a "full service" professional. On top of legal counsel, I also regularly offer restaurant reviews, exercise advice, and home remodeling tips.

What's the biggest challenge?

Time (or lack of it) prevents me from handling legal issues by myself. Unlike being an attorney in a private law firm when I worked on a discrete number of cases from beginning to end, my in-house counsel job at the District requires that I handle a hundred different matters at various stages within the limitations of a large public organization. On many occasions, I want to do the work myself, but my workload often forces me to delegate to outside counsel or devote less attention to the matter at hand than I would like to do. I have also learned that being a manager is sometimes more challenging than being an attorney!

What's in store for the future?

I have been working at the District as an attorney for over five years and I hope to continue doing so for a long time. I work with great, dedicated people and the assignments are interesting, challenging, and fulfilling.

Best way to keep a competitive edge

Enjoy what you do, be good at it, and be likable while you're doing it!

Guiding principle in life

You have three choices in life: 1) Get what you want; 2) Substitute; or 3) Forget about it. Once you select one of the three, you have made a decision and may move onto the next!

Yardstick of success

I measure my success by my state of happiness and fulfillment personally, professionally, and physically. Am I building and nurturing my relationships and becoming a better person? Am I meeting or exceeding the client's expectations for at work? Am I exercising almost every day and eating well?

Exercise is very significant because it makes me happy; rigorous to moderate daily exercise means that I make time for myself to relieve stress, take care of my body and health, and get the endorphin rush so I can feel not just a sense of tangible accomplishment, but a real high. On the occasions when I suffered an athletic injury that required me to "rest" for weeks, I was actually less productive, less energetic, and less pleasant in every aspect of my life. As such, I make exercise a priority!

Goal yet to be achieved

Good question! I have several nonprofessional related goals that I would like to achieve. I would love to be proficient in martial arts, surfing, and ballroom dancing. Those are three activities on my "to do list." I also want to travel more to see the wonders of the world and experience different cultures! I have been to Vietnam, Taiwan, China, South Africa, Canada, and Mexico. This year, I will visit Australia and New Zealand for 22 days. I would love to visit Europe, namely Spain, France, and Italy.

Best practical advice

Life is a theater, invite your audience carefully. Surround yourself with people who are healthy and mature enough to have a front row in your life. Relationships that uplift, encourage, and support you deserve to be in the balcony. You cannot change the people around you, but you can change the people you are around. Choose wisely to allow the truly deserving to sit in the front row of your life.

Supportive words from a family member or friend on your venture

1) Trust your instinct. 2) Anything that is not a "yes" is a "no." 3) Don't take what other people say too personally because it's just business. 4) Do what you think is right.

Mentors?

I have had several mentors during various stages of my life. My friend Robert Lyons has been wonderful in providing me undivided attention, encouragement, and advice. He believed in me when I did not believe in myself. And of course, my parents and my three sisters Selina, Sara, and Sophia have all provided me love, support, and feedback.

What motivated you to get started?

Actually, I was tired of working in the law firm until midnight, 2 a.m., and 4 a.m. in the morning on top of many weekends and long hours. The constant stress of "billable hours" highly motivated me to search for an in-house job where my accomplishments for the day was not measured by a time sheet. The District was already a client of the law firm so I just went from being outside counsel to in-house counsel.

Like best about what you do?

I am able to help the day to day running of a school district and actually make a difference with people who care. Since I work for a public entity, I hold the public's trust from an ethical and fiduciary standpoint. For this reason, I am able to be an advocate without having to take a legal position just to be "right" all the time. Working for a school district is very rewarding.

Like least about what you do?

I dislike having to deal with the bureaucracy associated with any large public organization. Specifically, I do not enjoy attending meetings all the time.

At age 10, what did you want to be when you grew up?

I wanted to be a school teacher. My parents bought me a real chalkboard at home so I could "practice" teaching. My dad told me I had neat penmanship on the chalkboard. I even had a real desk so my little sister could pretend to be my student. I used to write assignments on the board and give her homework.

What was your first job?

My first job was at age 16, working as a cashier at a stationery store.

Biggest pastime outside of work

It's a tossup between eating and exercise. I love food. I constantly talk about food, my refrigerator and shelves are always stocked, and I even dream about what I am going to eat. I once told a former boss that eating is one of the greatest pleasures in life. He told me it was the second greatest pleasure.

Person most interested in meeting?

I don't have a single person whom I would like to meet. I would like to meet singer/songwriter Michael Jackson because he is such an enigma. I would also like to meet any one of the successful computer and internet founders like Bill Gates of Microsoft, Sergey Brin of Google, and Jerry Yang of Yahoo. I would like to meet inspirational speaker Tony Robbins.

Three interesting facts about yourself

When I was in law school and weighed 100 lbs, I was able to bench press 135 lbs (bar plus two large 45lb weights) for six repetitions!
I can easily eat more than a guy twice my size and bodyweight. I once ate a 24 oz porterhouse steak, two side orders, and dessert with room to spare! (I can no longer eat like that and stay trim at the same time so I must often restrain myself.)
I paddle a "dragon boat" which is a water sport in these long sleek vessels holding 20 people. I compete both as a coxswain and a paddler with the local and nationally ranked San Diego Dragon Boat Team (SDDBT). After soccer, for number of participants, dragon boat racing is the most popular sport in the world! SDDBT will represent the USA at the 2008 International World Crew Club Championships in Malaysia.

Three characteristics that describe you

Energetic
Considerate
Humorous

Three greatest passions

Eating
Exercising
Having good conversation

Favorite book

I can't say that I read books that much since I spend most of my at work reading and I would rather go out with friends, watch TV, or exercise in my free time. For fiction, I enjoyed "Memoirs of a Geisha" by Arthur Golden. For nonfiction, I read a variety of management, leadership, and men vs. women books. I like reading the old comic strips "Calvin & Hobbes" by Bill Watterson and "The Far Side" by Gary Larson.

Favorite cause

Food! It makes the world go round!

Is there anything else you'd like to add?

Thank you for this wonderful opportunity.

Who would you like to be contacted by?

Since my two passions are exercise and eating, I would like to be contacted by any company, person, or entity who is interested in retaining me as a food critic or a reviewer of exercise clothes!

Credits

Interview by Vanessa Chan
Introduction by Preeti Aroon
Edited by Valerie Enriquez

Featured: Asian Flavored Tees at MuckitTees.com

admin — Fri, 23 Nov 2007 04:12:44 +0000

Our featured advertiser this week is Muckittees.com, your destination to find t-shirts that express yourself. The goal of Muckittees.com is to make you laugh, all while wearing a shirt that will definitely catch the eyes of others.

Check out the variety of tees and descriptions on its site and who knows you may possibly find yourself buying a shirt for yourself or even 10 for your closest friends, family or co-workers! Afterall, the holidays are fast-approaching us...

Strengthening Communities: APEX President Jason Scott Park

admin — Fri, 23 Nov 2007 03:48:17 +0000

When Jason Scott Park, 28, was in college, he led a student organization and was exposed to many community projects. Through those experiences, he developed a passion for building and strengthening communities. That enthusiasm has today led him to be President of Asian Professional Exchange (APEX). APEX focuses on professional development, community service, and cultural awareness, as they pertain to the Asian Pacific American community. Its programs and events include a mentoring program for college students and young professionals, a day-long career fair, a networking reception for community leaders, and a youth Olympics that promotes leadership through team-building games. Jason's responsibilities as president include managing APEX's board, fundraising, and strengthening relationships with the city of Los Angeles and the state of California, where the organization is based. To learn more about APEX and Jason's leadership, check out this week's Young & Professional Profile.

Non-Profit

Asian Professional Exchange (APEX)

Founded

1993

Website

Non-Profit: http://www.apex.org
Personal: http://www.jasonscottpark.com

Name

Jason Scott Park
President

Age

Hometown

Outskirts of Marina del Rey, California

Current residence

Los Angeles, California

Education

University of California, San Diego
B.S. in Management Science
(2001)

Work Experience

Non-profit/Community Experience

Asian Professional Exchange (APEX)
President
2005-Present

Korean American Advisory Board for the 48th California Assembly District
Board Member
Present

Asian Pacific Islanders Leaders Group Steering Committee
Organized by Paula Daniels, Commission on the Board of Public Works
Member
Present

Goodwill Southern California
Volunteer Task Force Member
Present

Leadership Education for Asian Pacifics, Inc. (LEAP)
Leadership Conference Planning Committee Member
2007

Domestice Violence Project
Hosted by the Center for Pacific Asian Families, the Korean American Family Service Center, the Korean Community Center of the East Bay, and the Korean American Bar Association
Planning Committee Member
2006

APA'S RISING: Political, Progressive and Proud
Community Leader Host Committee Member
2006

Korean Churches for Community Development (KCCD)
Board Member
2006

UCSD Triton Enterprise Network (TEN) of Greater Los Angeles
Board Member
2005-2006

FUSION 2005: Celebrating the Fabric of Our Diverse Community
Los Angeles Asian and Pacific Islander American Heritage Month Committee
Steering Committee Member
2005

Broadcasting Experience

Gospel Broadcasting Company (GBC 1190AM)
Host of "Meeting the Next Generation"
2003-2006

Professional Experience

United Escrow Co.
Relationship Manager
2007-Present

LandAmerica Financial Group, Inc.
Assistant Manager
2002-2007

General Electric Financial
Financial Adviser
2001-2002

Ethnicity

Korean-American

About the non-profit

The Asian Professional Exchange (APEX) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit, non-partisan community based organization with multifaceted goals and purposes that are charitable, cultural and educational in nature. Established in 1993, APEX currently boasts an e-community membership of over 2,000 members.

Mission

The APEX mission is to be the premier membership organization for Asian Pacific Americans in Southern California who have a strong commitment to excellence in professional development, community service and cultural awareness.

Purpose and Vision

The purpose of APEX is to serve as a medium to bring increased awareness about and to Asian Americans through community service, fellowship, charitable fundraisers, cultural events, professional networking and educational seminars. By combining diverse skills and resources to support common goals, APEX strives to benefit not only the Asian American community, but also society at large. Ultimately, APEX hopes to create a unified sense of community among all Asian Americans, here in the United States and abroad.

Objectives

Provide an opportunity for Asian Pacific Americans to develop, refine and achieve their full potential as future community and corporate leaders.
Address key philanthropic, cultural and business concerns of unique importance to the Asian Pacific American community.
Support activities that seek to raise the cultural awareness and enhance the perception of Asian Pacific Americans.
Facilitate increased interaction, communication and the exchange of ideas among Asian Pacific Americans.

What are your day-to-day responsibilities?

APEX is an incredible organization fully run by volunteers, who are full-time professionals. Without any paid staff, we continue to provide a powerful platform for Asian Americans to grow both professionally and personally, while emphasizing the need for community relevance. As the leading professional organization for Asian Americans here in Southern California, APEX recruits the best of the best in our communities.

On a day-to-day basis, I balance my full-time professional career while managing a non-profit board consisting of 15 directors and 18 committee chairs. My responsibilities for APEX include the strengthening of relationships within the City of Los Angeles and State of California, corporate fundraising, bridging professional organizations, creating numerous platforms to cultivate leadership, and most importantly, instilling the vision of community empowerment.

Most notable milestones

Going into our 15th year, APEX provides valuable opportunities for the Asian American community. We have recently been awarded the Outstanding Community Service Award at the Asian Pacific Women's Center's 6th Annual Metamorphosis Gala held at the City Club on Bunker Hill in downtown Los Angeles.

APEX's annual marquee events and programs are as follows:

APEX Mentoring Program: A free five month mentoring program that bridges college students with young professionals and a second tier that bridges young professionals with senior professionals.
APEX Youth Olympics: A day that champions leadership through team building games and activities for the youth in our communities.
APEX Awards Gala: An evening of community empowerment by recognizing excellence in our communities. To view pictures from our recent 14th Annual APEX Awards Gala, please visit: http://www.pics.yophotography.com/apex/
APEX Career Symposium: The largest day of professional development for Asian Americans in Southern California with a day-long career fair. For more information or to register for FREE, please visit: http://www.apex.org/career

During my term as President, I have implemented the following events and programs:

APEX Community Leaders Reception: A powerful networking event bridging young professionals with elected officials, community leaders, and members of the Asian Pacific American Legislative Staff (APALS).
APEX Leadership Luncheon Series: An intimate luncheon that allows our community to build substantial relationships with figureheads in the Asian Pacific American community.
APEX Youth Art Leadership Award: An art contest for Asian American youth in grades four to eight that champions leadership.

What's the niche?

APEX is unique in that it truly develops leaders in all facets of society. My biography is a testament of how this organization can develop an average working professional:

I am a Relationship Manager for United Escrow Co. I come with over five years of real estate management experience from the LandAmerica Financial Group, Inc. and a financial services background from General Electric Financial.

I am also an avid supporter of the community. From 2002 to 2003, I served as a mentor at Green Pastures Youth Center, an alternative high school in Koreatown. From 2003 to 2006, I hosted a weekly radio program entitled "Meeting the Next Generation" on GBC AM1190, which was widely broadcasted to the Korean communities in the Los Angeles and Orange County areas. Through my weekly radio segment, I built bridges between his guests and his listeners by interviewing various artists, figureheads in the community, and corporate leaders who were making an impact in society. From 2003 to 2005, I sat on the Executive Board of APEX as Vice President, with the 12th Annual APEX Awards Gala as one if his signature events. In 2005, I helped with the creation and reviewing process of grant applications for the Young Nak Presbyterian Church (YNPC) Serving the Community Grants, which was a grant that initially allocated $150,000.00 to the community. I also sat as a Steering Committee Member for the Asian and Pacific Islander American Heritage Month (of May) for the City of Los Angeles. In 2006, I was recognized as a community leader at the historic Dodgers vs. Padres game on Monday, September 18, 2006. I also moderated a plenary session for the Korean Churches for Community Development's (KCCD's) Lighting the Community Conference titled Revolutionizing the Way Churches Do Community Service.

As a result of his involvement in the community, I have been featured multiple times in The Korea Times, on KSCI-TV's (Channel 18) vignettes titled "Making a Difference" and "Our Role Models," and in the Editorial Section of the December 2005 issue of ViViD Magazine: The Premiere Source of Influential Chinese Americans. Aside from being interviewed on GBC AM1190 and Radio Seoul AM1650, my work in the community has also been recognized by the LA Times, The Chinese Daily News, and the offices of California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger, California State Controller John Chiang, Congressman Xavier Becerra, Congresswoman Linda T. Sanchez, California State Senator Jack Scott, California State Senator Lou Correa, Vice Chair Judy Chu of the California State Board of Equalization, Honorable Michelle Steel of the California State Board of Equalization, Assemblymember Ted W. Lieu, Assemblymember Mike Eng, Supervisor Yvonne B. Burke, Supervisor Don Knabe, Mayor Antonio R. Villaraigosa, Councilmember Ed P. Reyes, Councilmember Eric Garcetti, Councilmember Tom LaBonge's office, and the City Council for the City of Monterey Park. In support of the community, I also co-emceed the 20th Anniversary Korean American Insurance & Financial Professional Association's Banquet at the Wilshire Grand Hotel in downtown Los Angeles and the fifth Anniversary Celebration & Awards Gala for the Korean Churches for Community Development at the Radisson.

I am a graduate of the University of California, San Diego with a B.S. in Management Science and a minor in Japanese Studies. I have returned as a core member for the YNPC Serving the Community Grants Committee, which has over a quarter million dollars allocated for the community. I also currently serve on the Korean American Advisory Board for California State Assembly member Mike Davis of the 48th District, API Leaders Group Steering Committee organized by Paula Daniels who is a Commissioner on the Board of Public Works, Volunteer Task Force with Goodwill Southern California, and Leadership Conference Planning Committee for the Leadership Education for Asian Pacifics, Inc.'s (LEAP's). I was a former board member for the UCSD Triton Enterprise Network (TEN) of Greater Los Angeles, Korean Churches of Community Development (KCCD), and was an inaugural fellow for the Network of Korean American Leaders Fellowship Program at the University of Southern California (USC) School of Social Work.

What's the biggest challenge?

The biggest challenge is communicating the importance of community relevance for a younger professional audience. As we transition from a generation of immigrants, the mindset for survival has changed to a mindset of comfort. Many Asian Americans are achieving the "American Dream" and still view the idea of a community as a source of comfort for those who face cultural and language barriers or for those who are seasoned in their careers and have the time to give back.

However, there's empowerment for a young professional community through mentoring, leadership, and networking. With changing generations and changing times, it is our responsibility to KNOW our target audience and EFFECTIVELY communicate our message.

What's in store for the future?

We are currently in a transition period for next year's APEX 2008 Leadership Team.

Take a stand and make a lasting positive impact for your community!

Best way to keep a competitive edge

Learn how to listen.

The ability to discern is a powerful skill set that can transform wishful ideas to revolutionary plans for change.

Guiding principle in life

Greatness isn't achieved by the absence of failures, but greatness is achieved by overcoming them.

Yardstick of success

I would measure success by the number of individuals in my spheres of influence that are able to realize and pursue their passion in life.

Goal yet to be achieved

Develop a senior housing center and effective after school programs for the Koreatown area in the City of Los Angeles.

Best practical advice

Maintain a balanced life.

With the progression of age, job promotions, and relationships, it's easy to neglect a component of a healthy lifestyle (i.e. exercising, spending time with family and friends, times of reflection, etc.).

Supportive words from a family member or friend on your venture

"Slow down."

My parents tell me this often as a reminder to never lose sight of the initial purpose for my actions since it can easily get clouded by the amount of work I need to endure to pursue social change.

Mentors?

I have numerous informal mentors in various industries, but 2 individuals who really helped develop my leadership skills are:

Steve Liu, APEX Founder/Chairman
CEO of HPI Emblem

Adam Ritter, APEX Legal Counsel
Partner at Holland & Knight LLP

Aside from my parents, these two individuals were always frank and honest with me. Hearing the truth is hard to hear sometimes, but hearing the truth is hard to come by as well. I value their friendship and their ability to stretch me personally.

What motivated you to get started?

In college, I led a student organization and had an opportunity develop relationships with a few folks in the media as well as the Asian Pacific Islander Advisory Board for the Mayor of San Diego at that time. Through their friendship, I was exposed to several community projects and the experience initiated the passion I have now to develop communities.

Like best about what you do?

I enjoy the opportunity to meet extraordinary individuals. My definition of an extraordinary individual is an individual who is pursuing their passion.

From high profile executives and politicians to your average working bee and volunteer, I am thankful to come across such amazing people who are willing take a stand in what they believe in and do not wither when the wind blows.

Like least about what you do?

Changes take time. Relationships take time. It's so easy to get caught up with the want for immediate results. But through patience, I am reminded that lives and communities are being transformed. The time is worth the investment.

Awards Gala

At age 10, what did you want to be when you grew up?

I think I wanted to be a doctor? I forgot.

What was your first job?

I was a cashier and a host at the Jerry's Famous Deli in Marina del Rey, which was down the street from my home.

Biggest pastime outside of work

Traveling and working out. My schedule can be quite unforgiving, so any available time I can get, I just like to rest.

Person most interested in meeting and why?

Mayor Michael A. Bloomberg, I'd love to pick his brain to find out his business plan and strategy to develop the City of New York.

Leader in business most interested in meeting and why?

GE CEO Jeff Immelt, When I used to work for GE, I always wanted to meet with Jeff to find out how he transitioned from Jack Welch's leadership and style of business.

Three interesting facts about yourself

I was part of an educational science television show when I was in elementary school.
My first internship was in high school and I interned in the graphic arts department at the Creative Artists Agency (CAA) in Beverly Hills.
I was the prom king in high school.

Three characteristics that describe you

Passionate
Driven
Persistent

Three greatest passions

Developing communities
Traveling overseas
Meeting passionate people

Favorite book

"The Purpose Driven Life" by Rick Warren

Favorite cause

Aside from APEX, I have heart to develop the Koreatown area in the City of Los Angeles and the neighboring communities. Development includes:

Low income/senior housing
Increased homeownership
After school programs
Beautification projects
Consistent and effective town hall meetings

Who would you like to be contacted by?

Aside from corporate partnerships, we really look for individuals who want to make a genuine difference. There are numerous ways to get involved since we focus on professional development and community service.

Credits

Interview by Vanessa Chan
Introduction by Preeti Aroon
Edited by Valerie Enriquez

Young Broadway Performer Telly Leung

admin — Thu, 25 Oct 2007 06:54:10 +0000

As a high school student, Telly Leung got involved in his high school's musical as a way to take a break from his physics and calculus classes. Telly never quite returned from that break, however: Today he's a professional performer, currently in the Broadway cast of "Rent." He has a packed life that is constantly in motion, with rehearsals, auditions, and performances - it's anything but a conventional 9-to-5 job. Despite the instability of going from one show to the next whenever one ends, and despite the "gypsy" lifestyle of often being on the road to go where the work is, Telly, 27, says he thinks he's one of the luckiest people on Earth because he gets to do what he loves for a living. To learn more about Telly and what it's like to be an Asian-American performer, check out this week's Young & Professional Profile.

Career

Professional Performer

When did you start?

Age 17

Website

www.tellyonline.net

Name

Telly Leung

Age

Hometown

Brooklyn, New York

Current residence

New York City, New York

Education

Carnegie Mellon University
BFA Acting (Music Theater)
(2002)

Work Experience

Broadway

"Rent"
Roles: Steve and Others, understudy for Angel
November 2006-present

"Pacific Overtures"
Roundabout Theater Company
Roles: Observer, Boy in the Tree, Sailor, understudy for Kayama
2005 Broadway Revival

"Flower Drum Song"
Roles: Ensemble, understudy for Wang Ta (Broadway debut)
2002 Broadway Revival

National Tour

"Wicked," Chicago Company
Role: BOQ (original Chicago cast member)
2005

Regional Credits Include (for more, see website):

"Hello, Dolly!" at The MUNY (Barnaby)
"Children of Eden" at Fords Theater (Seth/Shem)
"Jesus Christ Superstar" at Sacramento Music Circus (Simon)
"The King and I" at North Carolina Theater (Lun Tha)
"Miss Saigon" at Pittsburgh CLO (Thuy)
"Sweeney Todd" at Four Seasons Theater (Tobias)

Ethnicity

Chinese-American

Describe your career

I think I'm one of the luckiest people in the world because I get to do what I love for a living: perform.

What are your day-to-day responsibilities?

The most common misconception about Broadway performers is that we only work three hours a day, from 8 p.m. to 11 p.m. However, we are constantly: a) in rehearsals for new cast members being put in the show b) in rehearsals for understudies c) auditioning for new projects d) in rehearsals for workshops and readings and e) staying on top of our game by going to voice/dance/acting classes. Our days get pretty packed.

A Broadway performer (especially a music theater performer) has to live a life of discipline in order to be in top form for the evening performance. We know how expensive a ticket to a Broadway show is (a whopping $110 is the top ticket!), so we make sure we are at our best and giving the audience their money's worth. The voice and body are the main tools of our trade, which means we have to sleep well, eat right, exercise, and not party all night long. I find the worst possible thing you can do the night before a show is be in a loud and smoky bar. The second hand smoke and the overuse of the vocal chords when speaking over the noise of the bar is killer on the voice.

We have to watch what we eat and drink, through the course of the day, to make sure it's not affecting the way we sing/dance. I, for one, cannot have spicy food or too much sugar before I sing. We wake up in the morning, and the first thing we do is check to see how tired we are vocally/physically from the night before. Doing eight shows a week takes a certain stamina that I had to learn to develop over time. and it's still something I'm figuring out how to do better and better. Some folks focus on hydration. Others like to steam. It takes a while to figure out one's personal daily routine that works for them.

As you can see, our day-to-day routine is all focused on how to give the best performance possible. Some say we live like nuns, and depending on how difficult your show is night after night, they might be right.

Most notable milestones

My Broadway debut was in "Flower Drum Song", and actually setting foot on the Broadway stage at the Virginia Theater for the first time was a moment that I will always remember.

When I did "Pacific Overtures," I got to fulfill the dream of every music theater actor and work with Stephen Sondheim. What an incredible opportunity, to be a) performing in one of his shows and b) to work so closely with him on the process.

As an Asian-American performer, I was so proud to be cast as Boq in the Chicago Company of "Wicked." At the time, I was the only Asian person to ever cast in the principle role in any company of that show. I have great respect for the casting directors, creative team, and producers of "Wicked" because they really wanted the world of their play, OZ, to reflect the diversity of the world. Why can't munchkins be Asian? Why can't the green witch be African-American? It is one of the few shows that is truly dedicated to non-traditional casting.

What's the niche?

No two actors will approach the role the same way. That is because it is our job to bring our own unique perspective to a role and no two performers are the same. As an Asian-American person, raised in traditional Chinese home in Brooklyn, New York, I am unique in my perspective and understanding of the world. That is what makes me unique as an actor. As I get older, life will continue teaching me lessons. It will expand my actors' vocabulary even more so as I continue on my journey as both a human being and a performer.

What's in store for the future?

It's one of the biggest challenges as an actor to adjust to the constant ups and downs of show biz. You never truly know what's in store for the future.

The life of an actor is in constant flux. We are often called "gypsies" because we go from one show to the next. Today, you might be on Broadway. Then your show closes, and you're on the unemployment line, searching for another project to attach yourself to. Actors often go where the work is. Life on the road might mean a new city – a new change of scene – every couple of weeks. It's a lifestyle that is constantly in motion. So who knows what's in store for the future?

This might sound terrible to some, especially those who like the stability of a "9 to 5" schedule (and paycheck). I must admit, there are times I envy those with that kind of job/financial stability. Yet being in this profession has truly taught me how to enjoy each moment in the present, to not worry too much about "yesterday" and "tomorrow," but to live and savor "today." The musical motif in "Rent" that echoes through the course of the show is: "No Day But Today." There is a profound truth in that. I've also been very lucky. But, I believe that luck is preparedness meeting opportunity and I have faith that if I keep working at it, and being prepared for the opportunities that arise, I'll be able to work constantly and have a full and prosperous career.

What is most rewarding about acting on Broadway?

I get to live out a life-long dream, and I get to work at home in New York. Actors so often have to go where the work is and do "gigs on the road" that I always find being in a Broadway show, and working in my hometown, a blessing.

Do you prefer acting in a Broadway production or in a smaller production?

I enjoy working on Broadway, but there I also love working regionally. There are some amazing theaters all across the country doing some daring, quality work on stage, and I love being a part of that. Though I've said being on the road is tough, it also gives me the rewarding opportunity of seeing places all over the US that I normally wouldn't visit. Who knew that Madison, Wisconsin was such a great little town? I would've never visited North Carolina had it not been for work – and I had a fantastic time there.

What is your most memorable experience in acting?

The most memorable experience I've had so far in acting was being involved in "Pacific Overtures" on Broadway. It has always been a dream of mine to be in a Sondheim show, and getting to share the stage with an All-Asian cast of stellar Broadway performers eight times a week, being directed by our amazing director from Japan: Amon Miyamoto, the first Asian person to ever direct a musical on Broadway, was a major career highlight. I've never been prouder to be an Asian performer on Broadway.

Do you prefer acting or music?

I don't have a preference. They exercise different parts of my creativity, and at the same time, one art form feeds the other. The music inspires my work in theater and vice versa. They are just different outlets of being creative.

Was it hard to master the skill of being able to act, sing, and dance, in order to be on Broadway?

I went to Carnegie Mellon University for my training and it was the hardest thing I've ever done. It's a competitive, selective, grueling, four-year, conservatory program with an all-day long regimen of acting, singing, ballet/jazz/tap, movement, voice and speech, accents and dialects, theater history, etc. However, I felt incredibly prepared after my four tough years there. The training I received is something that I still use heavily in my everyday work as a professional actor.

I am a true believer in being a student for life. I still take classes, voice lessons, acting classes, dance classes, etc. in New York.

Goal yet to be achieved

Like every Broadway actor, I've dreamed of winning a Tony Award. It would be an honor just to be nominated. No, really! I'm not just saying it. Oh well, I'll just keep plugging along and dreaming. Maybe one day, the right project will come along and it'll come true.

Best practical advice

Keep studying. This applies to every profession, really. But, it is particularly relevant to those who want a career in the arts. "Studying" might not be formal class. For actors, it might be people watching on the subway and doing a character study. For musicians, it might be a concert at Carnegie Hall or a live band at CBGB's. For artists, it might be gallery openings, or sketching the homeless man on the street. Live and breathe the art that is in the world around you, and keep studying it.

Supportive words from a family member or friend on your venture

My family has not always been supportive of my career in show business. I have immigrant parents who came to this country to give their child a better life in America. Like most immigrant parents, they have dreams of their children going to Ivy League schools and having the financial/professional stability of being a doctor, or a lawyer, or an engineer.

My parents and I have a great relationship. I think part of that relationship is learning from one another. The "better life" they dreamed of for me was limited to financial stability, but "better life" in my eyes is also the freedom and opportunity to pursue one's innermost dreams. Isn't "freedom" and "opportunity" what America is all about? I think I opened my parents' eyes to the fact that you can achieve both in this country, being in a profession you love and also making a living doing it.

Now my parents are happy for my success (and relieved that being an actor doesn't mean starving for one's art). Of course, I am happy that they are happy, but also satisfied knowing that my success has been defined on my own terms.

Mentors?

Thommie Walsh. He was an original cast member of "A Chorus Line," and a two time Tony Award winner in Choreography. He was one of the first choreographers I've ever worked for, and he pushed me to always be better than I thought I could be. He recently passed away, but his effect on me as an artist and a performer will live on eternally.

Mr. Vincent Grasso, my high school drama teacher. He taught me to love the theater and to love being part of the "family." Every person in the family is important: from the star of the show to the person that sweeps the stage at the end of the night. It's a valuable lesson that I still carry with me today: that every person is integral to the show.

What motivated you to get started?

I went to a math and science high school in NY, Stuyvesant High School. It was a grueling, competitive environment academically, and I started getting involved in the high school musical to relieve stress and take a break fro physics and calculus.

Like best about what you do?

When I was a teenager growing up in NY, Broadway was right in my back yard, and I remember going to the TKTS booth or getting student rush tickets for almost every show on Broadway. It inspired me to do what I do today.

Shows like "Wicked" and "Rent" have a large audience of young people. Being involved in both of these huge theatrical phenomenons has, no doubt, inspired the next generation of theater artists. It thrills me to know that I might have a little something to do with that.

Like least about what you do?

The nature of what we do as Broadway performers is that shows open and close. There is nothing more heart breaking (and scary) than that company meeting where the producers notify you of the show's closing date. All that blood, sweat and tears that went into the show will disappear (except for the memories of those involved and those who got to see it), and as an actor, I am once again on the hunt for a new project to go to. The pressure is on and the clock is ticking. But, I've learned that something always comes up. As an actor, you have to have faith that if you keep doing what you do, your good work will be recognized and someone will want to use your talents.

At age 10, what did you want to be when you grew up?

I think I wanted to make my parents proud, which meant going to an Ivy League school and being a doctor or a lawyer. Ah well.

What was your first job?

I did promotional work for the WB 11. I was part of their "Mickey Mouse" club called The Team 11. We did short commercials, promoting shows on the WB. It was the first time I got a pay check for doing what I love to do.

Biggest pastime outside of work

It's kind of work related, but I enjoy going to the theater – as an audience member.

Person most interested in meeting?

I recently did "Hello, Dolly" at the MUNY in St. Louis, and it was directed by Lee Roy Reams, who directed the most-recent Broadway revival starring Carol Channing. We heard some fantastic stories about her and I would love to meet her. She is a living theater legend and I'd love to have dinner with her and have her share her stories with me.

Leader in business most interested in meeting?

Hal Prince. He is the legendary director of some of my favorite shows ("Sweeney Todd," "Pacific Overtures," "Show Boat," "Evita") and also an accomplished producer. I feel like no one knows this business better, and I'd love to pick his brain.

Three interesting facts about yourself

I can only think of one now, so...

My parents named me after Telly Savalas, the popular star of the hit 70's series, "Kojak." My parents came to this country in 1975, and watched a lot of TV in an effort to learn English. They like the name Telly. I'm glad they didn't name me Kojak!

Three characteristics that describe you

I hate questions like this because I never know how to answer these without being a braggart or too modest. So I'm just gonna skip it.

Three greatest passions

Theater
Food: I love to eat and I love to cook!
Music

Favorite book

Besides being a huge Harry Potter fan, my favorite book (right now), is "Everything Was Possible," Ted Chapin's memoir from when he was a young intern on the original Broadway production of "Follies." He is now the head of the Rodgers and Hammerstein Organization.

Favorite cause

As a part of the Broadway community, I am an active supporter of Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS.

Favorite Broadway production

It's too hard to choose one, but if I had to, I would say "Rent." I am almost scared to admit how many times I've seen the show (probably over 20), so you can imagine what an amazing experience it is to actually be in the production.

Favorite Singer/Band

Many singers inspire me, including Stevie Wonder, Luther Vandross, Whitney Houston, Mary J. Blige, Billy Porter, Betty Buckley, Aretha Franklin, Mariah Carey, Adam Pascal, and Jill Scott (just to name a few!).

Credits

Interview by Candice Vance
Introduction by Preeti Aroon
Edited by Valerie Enriquez

VietAbroader: Empowering Vietnamese Youth Around The World

admin — Thu, 25 Oct 2007 06:44:57 +0000

For American high school students, gaining admission to the United States' top colleges is a difficult process. It's even more challenging though if you're a high school student in Vietnam who isn't familiar with American culture and the U.S. educational system. Khoa Pham, 23, noticed this unmet need for help in navigating the admissions process and formed VietAbroader. The organization provides information, guidance, and networking to make Vietnamese students competitive for admission and scholarships to top U.S. universities. The group also serves as a bridge linking local students in Vietnam with Vietnamese students studying overseas. Since its founding in 2004, VietAbroader has held two conferences attended by more than 1,000 Vietnamese students and parents. In the past two years, over 100 students attending those conferences have gotten admission and scholarships to U.S. colleges. To learn more about how Khoa and VietAbroader are making a U.S. college education attainable for Vietnamese students, check out this week's Non-profit Spotlight.

Non-Profit

VietAbroader

Founded

February 2004

Website

www.vietabroader.org

Name

Khoa Pham
Co-founder

Age

Hometown

Saigon/Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

Current residence

Lewiston, Maine

Education

Bates College
Economics and Political Science
(2007)

Cambridge Tutors College, U.K.
A Levels in Economics, Math and Accounting
(2003)

Work Experience

VietAbroader
Co-Founder
2003-Present

VinaCapital
Analyst
Summer 2006

Orvis
E-Commerce Associate
Summer 2005

BBC World Service
Translator
September 2002-July 2003

Ethnicity

Vietnamese

About the non-profit

VietAbroader is a student-run, non-profit organization that strives to empower global Vietnamese youth to contribute to Vietnam's sustainable development.

Our flagship program, VietAbroader Conference: Passing Of the Torch, aims to motivate and train Vietnamese students to become competitive for admission and scholarships into America’s top colleges and to strengthen long-term ties between local students and Vietnamese students abroad.

What are your day-to-day responsibilities?

I am a full-time student at Bates but devote around 25 hours a week to VietAbroader, mostly during the evenings and weekends. Since people are the single most important asset for VietAbroader and our mission, I spend a great deal of my time communicating with other colleagues, recruiting new members and volunteers, as well as establishing relationship with corporations, media and government agencies.

I am also involved in managing VietAbroader's online forum which provides extensive information and insights on admission and scholarships at U.S. institutions.

Most notable milestones

In less than three years, VietAbroader has paved the way to U.S. higher education for many economically disadvantaged students, while developing a reputation as a popular rendezvous for Vietnamese youth. Here are some of our important achievements:

VietAbroader successfully organized two conferences in summer 2005 and 2006, attracting more than 1000 students and parents.
In June 2006, VietAbroader held its first career panel in Ho Chi Minh City to connect overseas students with businesses in Vietnam. Top organizations such as AIG, Colgate, IDG, Intel, TinMay.com, Vietnamworks and VitaJeans.
More than 100 students attending conferences have received admission and scholarship to American colleges over the last two years.
VietAbroader's partners include AIG, Bates College, BP, Connecticut College, Eastern Asia Bank, Gustavus-Adolphus College and United Airlines. We also receive support from the Institute of International Education and U.S. Embassy and Consulate General in Vietnam.

What's the niche?

VietAbroader was initially created to serve as a bridge between Vietnamese students studying in the U.S. and local students in Vietnam. It met a real need of providing information, guidance and network for admissions and scholarship for U.S. colleges and universities, while enabling overseas Vietnamese students to contribute to Vietnam through coordinating meaningful, practical projects.

What's the biggest challenge?

We want to serve more people and get more stakeholders involved; however, the organization was originally created to serve only a handful of people. Therefore, the biggest challenge is to sustain a healthy growth of our membership network while still maintaining a cohesive, close-knit community.

What's in store for the future?

Our short term priority is to integrate our volunteers into every aspect of the organization. Right now our focus is the States and the U.K. but we would like to expand VietAbroader to other countries in the long term.

Best way to keep a competitive edge

Be open to new ideas, no matter how strange they may sound. Never be afraid to change.

Guiding principle in life

Whenever in doubt about anything, I ask myself one simple question: what would I do right now if I died tomorrow?

Yardstick of success

The single most important measure of success is what specifically our students accomplish and contribute at different stages of their career.

Goal yet to be achieved

Have enough money to open a grant-making foundation that focuses exclusively on helping developing countries grow and sustain their human talents. I believe people are the most important commodity in this century, key to the world's sustainability and peace.

Best practical advice

We all live because we believe in future. Always have faith in myself and in others.

Supportive words from a family member or friend on your venture

From some of my best friends: "Whatever happens, know that we are always here with you. "

Mentors?

My family taught me the importance of family. My friends share with me new perspectives and valuable experience. Both trust and give me unconditional support.

What motivated you to get started?

My friends and I feel lucky being studying abroad and realize the huge potential overseas students can contribute to the country, so we decided to start doing something about it.

Like best about what you do?

I have known and worked with so many interesting individuals from various backgrounds. I wouldn't trade the world for it.

Like least about what you do?

There are only 24 hours a day!

At age 10, what did you want to be when you grew up?

A secret agent!

What was your first job?

I got my first job as a waiter and delivery boy for a Chinese restaurant in the U.K.

Biggest pastime outside of work

Reading news from different places.

Person most interested in meeting?

Bill Clinton. I want to experience his inspiration hands-on.

Leader in business most interested in meeting?

Steve Jobs, because of his boundless determination and undying creativity.

Three interesting facts about yourself

I will have traveled to roughly 20 countries by the age of twenty-five.
I listen to someone speaking completely different language and can somehow guess what they are talking.
I can stay up as late as I want without coffee. Actually, coffee makes me sleepy!

Three characteristics that describe you

Perseverance
Passion
Like new challenges

Three greatest passions

Family
People
Traveling

Favorite book

"How We Know What Isn't So: The Fallibility of Human Reason in Everyday Life" by Thomas Gilovich

Favorite cause

Youth activities

Who would you like to be contacted by?

We are a new organization with a clear mission, a healthy growth and a strong team. We would love to talk to individuals and organizations who have an interest in, or want to make a difference to, any conceivable aspect of Vietnam.

Credits

Interview by Vanessa Chan
Introduction by Preeti Aroon
Edited by Valerie Enriquez

CEO Brian Gee of Aragon Consulting Group

admin — Fri, 12 Oct 2007 14:38:20 +0000

Brian Gee's company, Aragon Consulting Group (ACG), is growing at a stratospheric rate. Started in January 2006 with just seven people, the IT consulting company had expanded to a team of 60 halfway through this year. It recently raised venture capital that is expected to take it to a team of 60 by the end of next year, and possibly as many as 1,000 in four years. ACG provides clients with onsite-offshore IT consulting services by combining onsite project management with cost-effective offshore software development from its China-based engineering team. As Chief Executive Officer, Brian, 32, manages the rapid growth of his company and works with clients to map out their IT and product-development strategies. To learn more about Brian and ACG, check out this week's Young & Professional Profile.

Company

Aragon Consulting Group

Founded

January 2006

Website

www.aragonconsultinggroup.com

Name

Brian Gee
Chief Executive Officer

Age

Hometown

San Francisco, California

Current residence

San Francisco, California

Education

Columbia Business School, MBA, 2004

Columbia University, MA International Affairs, 2004

Harvey Mudd College, BS Physics, 1997

Work Experience

Aragon Consulting Group, CEO, 2006, 2007

McKinsey & Company, Associate (2004 - 2006)

K2 Optronics, Product Manager (2001 - 2002)

1stUp.com, Product Manager (2000 - 2001)

Ethnicity

Chinese

About the company

Aragon Consulting Group (ACG) is focused on providing clients with onsite / offshore IT consulting services. The firm couples powerful onsite product and project management capabilities with the talent and cost advantages of offshoring software development to the firm's China-based engineering resources.

What are your day-to-day responsibilities?

I play 3 key roles at ACG: 1) Client-facing responsibilities - I primarily interface with the firm's clients and work with client executives to map out their product development and I.T. strategies. 2) Internal management - I also work to build the right infrastructure and processes internally to manage our firm's growth. 3) The buck stops here - Finally, as the CEO of the firm, in the end, I'm tasked with making final decisions on subjects ranging from HR policy to staffing to administration to ensure that the firm can successfully deliver on commitments to clients.

Most notable milestones

The firm has experienced incredible success to-date. We started out in January 2006 with a team of 7. We grew to 20 by the end of 2006, and then from 20 to 60 in the first six months of 2007. As a firm, we've grown at this pace entirely profitably from day 1, which we're quite proud of. Beyond that, we're quite proud of the distinctive level of service we provide to our clients. We have very strong relationships across a range of industries, from media (MTV Networks) to insurance (Precedent Health Insurance) to Enterprise software (EMC).

What's the niche?

There are a number of Chinese offshore firms, all vying to become the Infosys, the Cognizant, the Tata, and the Wipro of China. However, these firms primarily play at the commoditized end of the I.T. outsourcing value chain. ACG, on the other hand, focuses on higher end product development and more complex I.T. services. We provide a level of service and technology expertise that we feel significantly differentiates us from the other Chinese offshore firms.

What's the biggest challenge?

Our biggest challenge to-date has been managing the firm's stratospheric growth rate. Going from 20 to 60 in the first 6 months of 2007 put a heavy strain upon our existing infrastructure and processes. Since then, we have worked to significantly shore up our management infrastructure, and processes and methodologies associated with serving as many clients as we do today. Being able to manage growth, while also delivering distinctive levels of client service, I suspect, will continue to be a big challenge for us, but certainly one that we're eager to tackle.

What's in store for the future?

We recently raised a Series A round of venture capital to enable us to accelerate our growth. We expect to go from 60 to 150 by the end of 2008, and to as many as 1,000 4 years from now. Depending upon how well we manage our infrastructure and processes internally, we may or may not raise future rounds of venture financing. The capital we raise will help us to accelerate our growth, but as always it's a delicate balance, as growing too fast is just as bad as not growing at all!

Best way to keep a competitive edge

In the end, in the world of I.T. services, there is only one way to keep a competitive edge - deliver the highest quality services to each and every one of your clients.

Guiding principle in life

I tend to believe that the point of life should be to maximize happiness. I've come to discover that Silicon Valley, and the world of high tech simply offers a more enjoyable way of making a living. Here in Silicon Valley, work isn't just work - it's about play too.

Yardstick of success

Friends of mine often ask what I do for work these days. I always say, "I get to go into the office and play cops and robbers all day long with my friends and colleagues. And I get paid to do it!" Honestly, coming into work is fun. Every day there's a new challenge, and everyone in our firm is close friends. It doesn't feel like work. That, to my mind, is the definition of success.

Goal yet to be achieved

There are too many to list...

Best practical advice

Turn off the Blackberry every once in a while... but, then again, maybe you better keep it on, just in case...

Supportive words from a family member or friend on your venture

A friend of mine owns the largest franchise chain of Internet Cafes in Beijing. He recently told me, "Brian, don't worry. If things don't work out, you can come work for me, in one of my cafes. We'll have you behind the counter, serving soft drinks and hot dogs." Best motivation I've had to make sure ACG is successful - I worked in fast food in high school, and don't want to go back to it!

Mentors

Everyone, entrepreneurs especially, absolutely need career mentors. These are the folks who will buck you up when it seems that the sky is falling - they've been through it all before, so they're the best resource to turn to when you need advice.

What motivated you to get started?

I wanted to build something special and work with friends and create a work environment that delivered considerable value to clients, but that didn't feel like "work."

Like best about what you do?

I love the people in my company.

Like least about what you do?

I hate answering the phone at 3am. But, I always do.

At age 10, what did you want to be when you grew up?

I wanted to be a theoretical physicist. I thought I was going to be the next Albert Einstein. Then I got to college. Boy, was that a rude awakening! Apparently, you have to be really smart to become a theoretical physicist. Nobody ever warned me!

What was your first job?

I was a telemarketer for Kirby Vacuums. You know, the people who call and interrupt your dinner to try to sell you something you wouldn't buy in a thousand years? Yeah, that's what I did.

Biggest pastime outside of work

I'm fairly involved in a nonprofit volunteer organization called One Brick (www.onebrick.org). We do a ton of volunteering for all sorts of causes, and then always go out for food and drinks after every event to socialize. It's a good cause and a good time.

Person most interested in meeting

I'd love to sit down and chat with Bill Clinton.

Leader in business most interested in meeting

I'd love to meet Warren Buffet. I'm a big value investing acolyte, and would love to hear it straight from the horse's mouth!

Three interesting facts about yourself

1. I'm one of the co-founders of One Brick
2. I'm also one of the co-founders of this franchise of Internet Cafes in Beijing
3. I'm working on a book about business school for the Chinese audience

Three characteristics that describe you

1. I have a really loud laugh, I'm told
2. I'm an armchair, wannabe foreign policy wonk
3. Survivorman is my hero

Three greatest passions

1. Eating
2. Sleeping
3. Rock climbing

Favorite book

Wisdom of the Crowds by James Surowiecki

Favorite cause

www.onebrick.org

Who would you like to be contacted by?

We are working hard to develop new channels and partnerships. Software product companies that need implementation partners could always use somebody like ACG to provide professional services to their customers. Of course, companies who are looking for cost-effective I.T. outsourcing solutions immediately come to mind. And, finally, creative organizations who deal with large enterprises looking for turnkey web solutions also present ideal partnership opportunities. ACG is focused on "backend" technology development and solutions, while ad agencies and other creative firms focus on frontend - which makes for a great fit.

Credits

Interview by Vanessa Chan
Introduction by Preeti Aroon
Edited by Valerie Enriquez

Promoting Cross-Cultural Exchanges: Executive Director Scott Sugiura

admin — Fri, 12 Oct 2007 14:27:09 +0000

Some of the most eye-opening experiences in life come from immersing oneself in another culture and having long-held beliefs challenged. Such exposure to other cultures promotes cross-cultural understanding and increases cultural literacy. The nonprofit organization VIA (Volunteers in Asia) has facilitated such cultural experiences through its educational and service programs for Americans and Asians. Volunteers from the United States serve as English teachers and English resource staff in countries such as Indonesia and Vietnam. Students from Asian countries participate in language and cultural programs at Stanford University. VIA has intentionally kept itself small so it can provide specialized and high-quality support to the participants in its programs. Since 1963, VIA has sent more than 1,600 Americans to 15 Asian countries and brought more than 4,000 Asians to the United States. As Executive Director of VIA, Scott Sugiura, 39, oversees these cultural-exchange programs. To learn more about him and VIA, check out this week's Nonprofit Spotlight.

Non-Profit

VIA (formerly Volunteers in Asia)

Founded

1963

Website

http://www.viaprograms.org/
VIA_(Volunteers_In_Asia) Wiki

Name

Scott Sugiura
Executive Director

Age

Hometown

Turlock, California

Current residence

Menlo Park, California

Education

San Francisco State University
International Relations Graduate Work
(1993)

Occidental College
B.A. Diplomacy and World Affairs
(1989)

Waseda University, Kokusaibu
(1987)

Work Experience

VIA
Executive Director
2002-present

Japan-U.S. Community Education and Exchange (JUCEE)
Managing Director
1999-2002

Tides Center
Project Coordinator
1998-1999

Tides Foundation
Program Assistant
1997-1998

Asian Pacific Islander American Health Forum

Rainforest Action Network; Bay Area Ridge Trail Council

Project Open Hand, International Rescue Committee (Thailand)

Ethnicity

Generation 3.5 Japanese-Californian

About the non-profit

Since 1963, VIA has been providing opportunities for Americans and Asians to walk in each others' shoes, share each others' cultures and come to understand each other through a common commitment to service and education. The goal of all of our programs is to enhance cross-cultural understanding through the exchange of people.

Our deep commitment to service and education drives our work and motivates students, volunteers and staff. We envision a world where people on both sides of the Pacific are appropriately equipped to build durable solutions to global problems through mutual understanding and cooperation. VIA programs have given thousands of Americans and Asians the tools and cultural literacy to help achieve this vision.

If you are an American or permanent resident in the US interested in living and working in a community where you can explore another culture as well as gain a better understanding of yourself and your capacity, I would encourage you to consider volunteering in Asia with VIA. There are few experiences more powerful than living in another culture and learning to negotiate your place within that culture. The most formative experiences in my life and the lives of many of our alumni have revolved around international opportunities for education and service. One of the keys to success in this is understanding that you have an equally significant role and responsibility to teach as well as to learn, to serve as well as to receive.

VIA volunteers have been making an impact for more than four decades by working with Asian partner institutions as teachers and English resource staff. Our approach to this work and our commitment to stepping lightly with great humility has resulted in a strong network of institutions and communities that have supported our volunteers in 15 different countries in Asia. Whether you continue to work in a field related to Asia or not, the course of your life will be permanently changed by your experience.

If you are a college student in Asia or at Stanford with a deep curiosity about cultures other than your own and an unbounded enthusiasm to learn, please check the Opportunities for Asian students and Stanford students pages of our website. At the request of universities throughout Asia, VIA has been facilitating language and cultural exchange programs since 1977. While there are numerous exchange programs available to students from Asia, VIA's Stanford Programs are unique in several respects. Most VIA programs are multinational, bringing together students from several countries in Asia in addition to the interaction with Stanford students. All of our programs have a strong service component which link them to VIA's overall mission.

We have kept VIA purposefully small and believe that our hand-crafted approach to programs has been a key to keeping the VIA experience unique and life-changing. It has also been the glue that keeps the VIA family of alumni, staff and board as engaged and active in the long-term health and well being of the organization and the opportunities our programs create. Join us!

What are your day-to-day responsibilities?

As Executive Director of a small nonprofit I work on a little bit of everything: program development & oversight, finance & fundraising, board & alumni development, making coffee & copies.

Most notable milestones

Organizational milestones:

Began offering one and two-year volunteers opportunities in Asia as alternative service for conscientious objectors during the Vietnam War.
Began sending volunteers to Indonesia in 1968.
Began sending volunteers to China in 1980.
Began sending volunteers to Vietnam in 1990.
Began sending volunteers to Myanmar in 2006.
Sent volunteers to 15 different Asian countries over the past 45 years.
Began programs for undergraduate students from Asia at Stanford University in 1977.
Over 1,600 American volunteers & more than 4,000 Asian participants to the US.

What's the niche?

VIA is all about making person-to-person connections through international service and education. This is a broad area and we differentiate ourselves from bigger organizations like the Peace Corps in our ability to approach a country or partner institution from a completely neutral and nonaligned position. This approach has enabled VIA to develop opportunities in countries that the Peace Corps is unable to access.

Because VIA is intentionally small we are also able to provide highly specialized and high-quality support to all our programs. What has sustained VIA over 40+ years is our ability to facilitate "life-changing" experiences for participants whether they are spending a summer of service work at Stanford or two years in the jungles of Kalimantan.

What's the biggest challenge?

Like most nonprofits our biggest challenge is mobilizing resources (financial and otherwise) to get our work done. VIA is lucky to have diversified income sources and generous support from our alumni but we are continuously seeking out new sources of revenue to support new programming and offset rising costs.

What's in store for the future?

One trend that is slowly emerging is a change in the demographic of our volunteers. When VIA began in the 60's we worked exclusively with college students and recent graduates. Our profile today is much more diverse and we expect to have a growing pool of baby boomers (both VIA alumni and non) who are looking to volunteer after they retire. This represents a great opportunity to connect partner institutions in Asia with highly skilled volunteers who bring a career's worth of experience to the field. It also changes the dynamics of our volunteer cohort in positive ways by adding more diversity to the group and providing more mentorship opportunities among volunteers.

For VIA's programs bringing Asian undergraduates to Stanford we are also anticipating growth in participation from mainland Chinese students. As China's economy continues to grow and our ability to obtain visas for students increases we are looking forward to greater numbers of Chinese on our summer programs.

Best way to keep a competitive edge

VIA staff is always on the look out for new opportunities that fit our mission and for ways to improve on our existing programs. Over the past 40+ years VIA has not been afraid to take risks in new areas and this flexibility has enabled the organization to stay responsive and innovate. Fostering an organizational culture that empowers staff to think outside the box while remaining mission focused is one of our key goals.

Guiding principle in life

LET'S EAT!

Goal yet to be achieved

VIA's niche has always been creating unique opportunities across the Pacific and pushing people's boundaries. One goal that has been on VIA's to-do list for some time is to develop volunteer opportunities in North Korea. My best estimate would be in the next five years.

Best practical advice

Get out of your comfort zone.

While VIA does this literally by sending people across the dateline into unfamiliar surroundings, it is essentially a mental challenge to keep questioning your assumptions.

Mentors?

Too many to mention – mostly former supervisors and co-conspirators. It has been very helpful to me to have a variety of people whose opinions I respect who are willing to give unvarnished feedback. I also think it is important to have mentors who are at a different stage in their careers so that you can see how people you respect have dealt with challenges you may face in the future. Ultimately it's all about being a conduit for information and support and giving is as good as receiving.

What motivated you to get started?

I have always been interested in doing work that results in a net positive social impact. While I have chosen to work almost exclusively in the nonprofit sector, positive social change is definitely not limited to this sector. I am increasingly interested in how the traditional lines between "for profit" and nonprofit are being blurred and what strategies nonprofit organizations can adopt that will increase their impact.

Like best about what you do?

Working with students from Asia and Stanford. Connecting with volunteers and alumni. Travel to Asia.

Like least about what you do?

The commuting

At age 10, what did you want to be when you grew up?

An archaeologist.

What was your first job?

"Sorting" peaches on a farm in the Central Valley during summers. I think I was 14 years old.

Biggest pastime outside of work

Eating and sleeping. We have a six-year old and a three-year old.

Person most interested in meeting?

Barack Obama. He should be a good spokesperson for VIA's Indonesia programs.

Leader in business most interested in meeting?

Craig Newmark. I heard he answers the phone. I think it's great that craigslist is successful, community-driven and is a dot org.

Three interesting facts about yourself

I have eaten a whole reuben sandwich from Katz Deli in one sitting.
I once bought a water buffalo carcass for work.
I play pool left handed.

Three characteristics that describe you

Big picture
Yokubari (in a food context)
Nit-picky

Three greatest passions

Family
Food
Travel

Favorite book

"Pinball, 1973" by Haruki Murakami, translated by Alfred Birnbaum.

Favorite cause

My appetite.

Who would you like to be contacted by?

I would love to get a call from the office of Representative Tom Lantos or Senator Richard Durbin asking VIA's advice on how to amend the Senator Paul Simon Study Abroad Foundation Act of 2007 (S.991) which has been referred to the Senate Foreign Relations Committee.

The bill would create a public-private partnership that would support opportunities for at least one million American college students to study abroad annually in 10 years' time. The bill authorizes $80 million for grants to individual students, universities and nongovernmental institutions that provide study abroad opportunities. Of particular relevance to VIA is the bill's emphasis on expanding study abroad opportunities to less-commonly visited destinations in the developing world.

It is exciting to see bipartisan legislation recognizing the need to build the global competencies of American citizens in order to sustain US global leadership, competitiveness, and security, a key argument validating the need for VIA programs. It would be even more amazing if there were an amendment to extend this opportunity to graduating college students who would like to volunteer abroad but cannot do so because of staggering student loans.

Student loan debt encumbered almost two-thirds of the graduating Class of 2006, according to federal statistics. VIA has also witnessed this trend through increasing numbers of applicants requesting financial assistance and information on how to defer student loans. An extension of the student loan forgiveness available to Peace Corps volunteers would remove a huge barrier for those interested in volunteering with VIA, especially in countries where we are focused and options like Peace Corps are not available .

You can read more about the Simon Study Abroad Foundation Act at: http://www.nafsa.org/public_policy.sec/commission_on_the_abraham

Credits

Interview by Vanessa Chan
Introduction by Preeti Aroon
Edited by Valerie Enriquez

Factoid of the Week: Generation Y @ Work

admin — Mon, 08 Oct 2007 05:20:38 +0000

Are young professionals influential in the workplace? Yes, absolutely. If you were to ask this same question a decade ago, the answer would be quite the opposite. We're responsible for changing traditional methods of communication (think IM, text messaging, emails at odd hours), we're bolder and more demanding than previous generations and as a population we have a 'smarter than thou' presence (this of course attributed to being immersed in technology since birth). More importantly, we're adaptable to the changing times. Let's take a closer look at the stats and psychographics around Gen Y @ work, shall we?

Within the next five years, Gen Y workers will make up 40% of all American workers.
We've grown up in an era of technology and being told we can be and do anything we want to.
Gen Y'ers are filled with a sense of immediacy - we live in the here and now. We need our work to be important, enjoyable and with tangible results.
More than half of Gen Y workers prefer to work at companies that allow volunteer work to be included as an extension of their work responsibilities. We want to know we're making a difference and we want to measure it.
We're BIG on being efficient with our time (c'mon on now we have lives outside of work, right?). We're generally annoyed at the many inefficiencies we see at work and feel we're the savior to fix them all.
We're becoming more and more demanding of changing what the 9-5 day looks like. We're looking for jobs that has the options for flexible hours, macro-management, and work from home opportunity (atleast for a couple days during the week).
Our biggest complaint? That companies don't let us plug in our laptops, cell phones, Blackberrys (aka Crackberrys) and of course, our iPods into their networks. The inability to do so basically means we can't exist at work. We need our mobile technology as much as the older generations needs their 8 cups of coffee in a day.

We may not seem to be paying attention. But we really are. We're masters of multi-tasking!

Is there anything we missed that you'd like to add? Comment below!

Source: Boston Herald, Deloitte Survey, Lowell’s Concours Institute
Photo Credits: Hendimion, Delgoff