Unsung Heroes

It's May, and that means it's Asian Pacific American Heritage Month! 

This is a time to celebrate the versatile cultures, rich traditions, and incredible contributions of Asian and Pacific Islander communities across the United States. From groundbreaking scientists to inspiring artists, their stories are everywhere and deserve to be heard. 

Also, this week, the Asian Heritage Week series, initiated by Asian Hustle Network, has kicked off in New York City with many exciting events. 

So make sure to read through and stay updated on Asian Heritage Week to catch all the fun!

UPLIFTING STORIES 📚

Let’s raise a toast for these remarkable individuals and their impact on the community!

As we celebrate Asian Pacific American Heritage Month, we pay tribute to the 50 winners of the Bill Imada Unsung Heroes list, naming individuals whose extraordinary acts of bravery, selflessness, and community service have often gone unnoticed.

Nominated by the community and acknowledged during the Uplifted Conference 2024, these heroes represent a diverse array of backgrounds and accomplishments, each leaving an indelible mark on the community.

Join us in honoring these Unsung Heroes, amplifying their remarkable achievements, and recognizing the profound impact they've had on shaping a more inclusive and empowered society.

UPLIFTING LEGENDS 📺

Introducing two legends who have enriched our taste buds and made us smile from ear to ear!

David Zhao, the brain behind Chubby Group, conquered the foodie world despite starting his journey in the US with a language barrier at 12. 

Ian Boggs, the master of short-form comedy on YouTube and TikTok, proves he's a one-man show, scripting, and starring in his viral hits. 

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

Orange Peel Cafe Peels Back Layers of Himalayan Culture 🥟 

New York City’s Orange Peel Cafe has proven itself to be an epitome of cultural exploration as it sheds light on the North Face (Nepal’s Everest region) region’s cuisine, revealing the multifaceted layers to the area besides the typical association with extreme sports and outerwear. Co-founded by Nepali Nichi Pandey and Chinese Steven Li, this pop-up restaurant delves into the shared culinary heritage of the Nepal-China border.

Moving beyond Everest's icebound image, the cafe offers a variety of “culinary creations”, shaped by the Himalayas' harsh climate. Expect Nepali teahouse-style turmeric fried rice, alongside pan-fried pork ribs and the nostalgic "childhood snack" of turmeric and chili-flakes eggs.

Momos - steamed dumplings with Nepali spice combinations - are perfect examples of this cultural exchange. "We realized the cooking styles overlap", explains Pandey, "and Nepal's position between China and India creates a fascinating fusion". 

Pickling, fermenting, and foraging, evident throughout the menu, are essential practices due to the jarring cold here. This daring venture offers a delicious escape, diving into the heart of Himalayan culture.

New Projects Are Turning the Tide of Maldives' Swim Culture 🏊‍♀️ 

Established in 2022, the Ocean Women project, led by Manta Trust, a UK-based marine charity, and Salted Ventures Swimmers, a Malé-based swim school, is set to close the gap for local women to participate in swimming. 

Traditionally, patriarchal biases, the aesthetical notion that female swimmers may get unappealing tanned skin, and a lack of resources for swimming programs means there are few opportunities for women to advance in the waters. 

Research conducted with Maldivian school students, as reported by Ocean Women, indicates that girls are 50% more likely than boys to have never tried snorkeling and are four times more likely to lack confidence in swimming in the sea.

Therefore, this program could help rearrange this imbalance. By providing qualified instructors and lessons of all skill levels, the project creates an inclusive and welcoming environment for more Maldivian women to learn and explore uncharted waters. 

If women are given adequate opportunities for swimming, this will open doors for new opportunities and growth for the country, especially in tourism, the key industry in Maldives. This program empowers Maldivian women in fostering their health, water safety, and career prospects, all while creating a ripple effect of positive change in the island nation. 

Los Angeles #AsianHeritageWeek: Sunday Yoga & Networking 

Come join Malaya Collective, a yoga company founded by Los Angeles and Filipina entrepreneurs, for a rejuvenating 90-minute yoga session on Sunday morning. Afterward, stick around for a 90-minute networking event with refreshments to wrap up Asian Heritage Week in Los Angeles. This event is part of #AsianHeritageWeek by Asian Hustle Network, celebrating the Asian community globally.

• 🗓️ Sunday, May 19: 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM (PDT)

• 📍 453 S. Spring Street Unit 326, Los Angeles, CA 90013

• ✌️ A comforting 90-minute yoga session 

• 🛍️ Showcase/Tasting FB products and networking

Connect with fellow LA-based AANHPI professionals, creators, and entrepreneurs in a warm and inclusive environment as we celebrate the achievements of our community and set intentions for the future.

*Please be punctual to honor the yoga practice. Wear comfortable attire and bring your own mats.

Austin Bluefin Handroll Night

Come join us for Austin Bluefin Handroll Night, an engaging networking event that celebrates entrepreneurship and culinary excellence. Co-hosted by the Asian Hustle Network and Subtle Asian Real Estate, this event aims to spark inspiration and collaborations among small business owners and community leaders.

Featuring special guest Lavinia Doan, attendees will have the chance to explore the art of sushi-making and expand their culinary horizons.

• 🗓️ Saturday, May 11: 5:30 - 9:00 PM (CDT)

• 📍 Round Rock, Texas. Venue addresses will be sent out to attendees individually.

• ✌️ A networking event celebrating the spirit of entrepreneurship and culinary mastery

​Don't miss this opportunity to dip in a melting pot of creativity and collaboration!

Melbourne #AsianHeritageWeek: Korean Festival

​Korea Festival 2024, the biggest Korean cultural event in Melbourne, is returning to Fed Square, free and open to the public for two days this May.

There will be a spectacular performance lineup including a K-pop dance and singing, and traditional Korean performances. The festival will be bustling with delicious Korean foods, and Korean cultural booths for crafts, clothing, and more.

• 🗓️ Friday & Saturday, May 10 & 11: 11:00 AM - 8:00 PM (AEST)

• 📍 Fed Square, Swanston St & Flinders St, Melbourne, AU

• ✌️ A fantastic lineup with K-pop dance, singing, and traditional Korean performances

Korea Festival 2024 is not to be missed as it will be a perfect opportunity to explore and learn about Korean culture right here in Melbourne.

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