Is your networking working?

Building a startup or changing careers is like setting sail on uncharted waters. It’s exciting, but it can also be scary.

But here’s the thing: it’s also filled with boundless opportunities for growth and success. While stepping out of your comfort zone may feel intimidating, it’s often the first step towards achieving greatness and creating something extraordinary.

Just look at these inspiring individuals who took big leaps to follow their dreams. Read through to learn their stories.

UPLIFTING STORIES 📚

Behind the Scenes: A Conversation With Neal Jean About the Birth of Beacons.ai

Neal Jean, co-founder and CEO of Beacons.ai, an emerging operating system for creators, embodies the incalculable nature of one’s career path. Despite gaining his second bachelor's degree, completing a Ph.D., and experiencing a tumultuous finance career that led to his dismissal from his first job, it wasn't until a conversation he had at a wedding that dawned on him the idea for his startup. 

If you want to see what the next generation of Asian leaders looks like, look no further than Neal Jean. 

UPLIFTING LEGENDS 📺

Meet these two girl boss legends who have pivoted their careers to follow their passions, and then made significant impacts on their respective industries.

Want to be highlighted in the AHN Legends series? Apply now!

A 5-Year-Old Boy Made History as the Youngest Everest Scaler in Singapore 🧗

Within eight days and at an altitude of 5.36 kilometers above sea level, 5-year-old Abyan Imtiaz Irkiz has accomplished a remarkable milestone in becoming the youngest Singaporean to reach Mount Everest base camp. 

Accompanied by his father, his journey was documented on Instagram under the IG handle @abyan.irkiz. This success, according to them, was the result of “faith and hard work” of six months of intense preparation.

All Aboard, Bookworms! Giant Ship Sails Into Hong Kong Harbor Overflowing With Stories 📚

The Doulos Hope, operated by GBA Ships, a German-based charity, landed in Hong Kong from May 4-26 with over 2,000 English-language books. The ship has previously made a few stops throughout Southeast Asia, advocating for literacy, education, and intercultural collaboration. 

With a crew of 100 volunteers from 25 countries, the Doulos Hope invites public visits and encourages community engagement in partnership with local NGOs like Ultimate United and the Praxis charity. Amidst its humanitarian initiatives, the ship's visit to Hong Kong aims to inspire hope and positive change, resonating with its historical connection to the city through its former operator, Genting Hong Kong’s Star Cruises.

Stacy Chui, Expert Realtor in the Bay Area

This week’s newsletter is presented by Stacy Chui. Stacy is a seasoned Real Estate Agent with 17 years of experience serving the San Francisco Bay Area, specializing in buyer representation, listings, short-sales, property management, and landlord services. She is recognized for her professionalism, knowledge, and trustworthiness, and is known for building lasting relationships with her clients, many of whom have become close friends.

Whether you’re a first-time homebuyer, seller, or seasoned investor, Stacy is committed to providing expert guidance and personalized service to help you achieve your real estate goals.

For newsletter sponsorship opportunities, please reach out to [email protected] 

Washington, DC #AsianHeritageWeek: AAPI Business and Diplomacy Young Professional Happy Hour

Join us in commemorating AAPI Heritage Month at the AAPI Business and Diplomacy Young Professional Happy Hour. This event is brought to you by the Singapore Global Network (SGN), Sabaidee Fest and Golden Wat Cognac, in collaboration with the US ASEAN Young Professionals Association, Asian Hustle Network, Puso Foundation, and Deloitte, and hosted at Alice on U Street.

• 🗓️ Thursday, May 16: 6:30 PM - 10 PM (EDT)

• 📍 Alice DC, Washington D.C., USA

Come network, make connections, and enter a raffle to win tickets to attend Sabaidee Fest and other prizes. Space is limited, so secure your spot by registering today!

Philadelphia #AsianHeritageWeek: WXPN Welcomes Asian American Pie

Five Asian-fronted artists unite to present a musical celebration "Asian American Pie" on Saturday, May 11th, which falls right in the heart of AAPI Heritage Month. 

With a fusion of Indie Rock and Pop, this evening promises diverse flavors, from Beau Frères' acoustic soulful harmonies to Alyssa Garcia's singer-songwriter piano stylings, Moonroof's energetic modern pop, Judah Kim's Beatles-meets-Radiohead rock, and John Faye's unabashed power pop. Each artist will contribute their unique essence to the AAPI artistry in 2024.

• 🗓️ Saturday, May 11

• ⏰ Doors: 6:00 PM | Show: 7:30 PM (EDT)

• 📍 The Lounge at World Cafe Live

​Don't miss this opportunity to immerse yourself in the melodies of these talented Asian artists!

Sydney #AsianHeritageWeek: The STAGE Communication Workshop

Immerse yourself in the transformative journey of The STAGE Workshop, a dynamic two-day experience led by renowned international keynote speaker, Vinh Giang. Explore the fundamental principles of communication and presentation, acquiring a versatile toolkit that extends beyond the stage to enhance your off-stage interactions.

• 🗓️ Dates:

  Saturday & Sunday, June 1 & 2: 8:30 AM - 6:00 PM (AEST)

  Monday, June 3: 8:30 AM - 6:00 PM (AEST) (Day 3: Storytellers & Composers Only)

• 📍 Eternity Playhouse, 38 Burton Street, Darlinghurst NSW 2010

Prepare to embark on a comprehensive exploration of vocal mastery, the art of storytelling in business, decoding body language, and a myriad of other invaluable skills.

Asian Female Founder Showcase

Join us at Rise, brought to you by Barclays, for our Rise Quarterly Special as we honor Asian Heritage Month and spotlight innovative startups led by Asian female founders. Hosted by Rise, Asian Hustle Network, and Vansary, this event promises inspiring stories of strength, innovation, and success, shedding light on the diversity within the tech ecosystem.

• 🗓️ Thursday, May 16: 8:30 PM - 6:00 PM (EDT)

• 📍 Rise New York

Let’s come together and celebrate the remarkable power of Asian women!

Got deals to share with the community?

Fill out this form if you have any deals or perks you would like to share with the community!

Boost your business with Verizon's $10,000 small business grants.

Give your business amazing opportunities for free. Join Verizon Small Business Digital Ready to access free courses, events, and more. Plus, right now you can apply for $10,000 grants.

Here’s how to apply:

• Join Digital Ready for free and complete 2 courses or events.

• Apply between now and June 28, 2024.

• All applicants will be notified whether they’ve been chosen to receive funding.

• Go to their grants page to learn more.

🎙️Intimidated by the mere thought of professional networking? Building your network can be quite “awkward" at first. Follow these useful tips and strategies, and you'll be growing relationships that can turn into career opportunities and professional development in no time. 

Want to amplify your story through AHN? Fill out this form.