🌟 For Asians Working in Industry
In the corporate world, many Asians work hard, deliver excellence, and earn respect—but too often, leadership roles remain out of reach. The challenge isn’t talent or dedication; it’s cultural translation. Many of us were taught to let our work speak for itself, to avoid self-promotion, and to prioritize teamwork over visibility. Yet in American workplaces, leadership often means speaking up, showing vision, and influencing others.
By learning how to communicate confidently and lead authentically, we can honor our cultural roots while opening doors to leadership. When we find our voices and step forward, we don’t just advance our own careers—we pave the way for others and help create workplaces that truly value diversity of thought and style.
To support you on this journey of self-discovery and growth, we are offering a free copy of Breaking the Bamboo Ceiling by Jane Hyun—a groundbreaking book that explores how cultural values shape leadership and success in the Western workplace.
If you’re interested in receiving your free copy, click here to request one.
🎓 For Asians in Academia
In academia, Asians have long excelled as students, researchers, and educators—but are still rarely seen in top administrative or thought-leadership positions. Academic leadership often requires self-advocacy, strategic networking, and visibility beyond one’s research or classroom. For many of us, these skills may feel uncomfortable or even self-promotional, yet they are essential for making a broader impact.
By learning to lead in ways that align with both our cultural values and institutional expectations, we can expand our influence, mentor others, and help reshape the culture of higher education. Our leadership can model how integrity, collaboration, and humility coexist with strength, vision, and courage.
Many Asians are naturally smart, organized, and strategic—but often think, “That’s just being efficient,” without realizing, “That’s being a leader!” Too often, we underestimate our own leadership ability and readiness.
To explore whether academic leadership might be right for you, check out this insightful article:
“How to Move Up the Administrative Ranks: Ten Questions to Gauge if You’re Leadership Material”
👨👩👧 For Asian Parents
As Asian parents, we work tirelessly to give our children every opportunity to succeed. Yet to truly help them thrive in America, we must also understand how success and leadership are developed in this culture.
In the U.S., achievement is not only about knowledge or grades—it’s equally about confidence, communication, and the courage to take initiative. Leadership here grows from having a voice, expressing ideas, and inspiring others through authenticity, empathy, and service.
By learning these cultural and leadership insights ourselves, we can better guide our children to become confident, compassionate leaders who carry forward the best of both worlds.
One key area to start early is soft skills development. Among these, communication and public speaking are especially important for Asian children, who may need more encouragement to express themselves openly. We hope more parents will actively help their children build these skills—and we are developing ways to offer greater encouragement and incentives for participation.
🌟 Resource Highlights
Communication Academy
Offers engaging Public Speaking and Leadership Camps that help students gain confidence and improve speaking skills through fun, interactive activities and regular presentations.
Programs are available after school and during school breaks for K–12 students throughout the San Francisco Bay Area, in partnership with local recreation departments.
For Palo Alto families, you can find the Winter Session schedule and registration details here:
OCA San Mateo Chapter – Speak and Lead with Pride
A signature youth leadership and public speaking program for high school students who identify as Asian American.
The program runs weekly on Saturdays starting in January, culminating in a speech contest in March. It provides a safe and empowering environment for students to find their voice, share their stories, and build leadership confidence.
Location: Foster City
Learn more or apply here:
💫 Moving Forward Together
No matter where we are—at work, in academia, or at home—each of us has a role to play in breaking barriers and redefining leadership. When we learn from one another, support one another, and lead with both heart and purpose, we create ripples of change that extend far beyond ourselves.
Together, we can build a future where Asian leadership is visible, valued, and vibrant—where every generation feels empowered to stand tall, speak truth, and lead boldly while staying true to who we are.
