Asian America A to Z 2017

A - Artistic

"Maybe there's a big risk to take waiting for me in the future."

B - Building community

"Believe in the opportunities that exist in the unexpected and the unknown."

C - Curious

"I firmly believe that disruption often comes out of nowhere, and it’s that defiant, rebellious spirit that drives things forward."

D - Dazzling

"Life isn't perfect, any failures you have are actually learning moments. They teach us how to grow and evolve."

E - Evocative

"There have been so many accomplishments and triumphs that need to be recognized and celebrated amongst our community."

F - Fusion

"I wake up every morning challenging myself to work harder than the day before."

G - Giving voice

"I'm proud of where I've come from and all I've gleaned from my culture and heritage, all of which continues to enrich my life to this day."

H - Historic

"Live poetically."

I - Inclusive

"I’m inspired by people who are unapologetically themselves in the face of a society that values cis/heteronormativitity."

J - Jazzy

"The history of Asian Americans belongs to all of us and celebrating our heritage helps us celebrate those great things and people in our community."

K - Kinetic

"Never give up."

L - Lyrical

"Since I didn’t have the emotional and physical space that I craved as a teenager, I took to music and built that space for myself."

M - Multicultural

"By collectively and critically thinking, we critically create."

N - New-fashioned

"I could have had my viral moment be a fun 15 minutes of fame or I could take it and turn it into my dream career. I just never wanted to look back and think 'what if.'"

O - On the move

"I am constantly reading and actively look for opportunities that will challenge my assumptions about our society and the world around me."

P - Performative

"Asian experiences are real and they matter."

Q - Quite funny

"Taking my first improv class...was terrifying, but worth it. I highly suggest everyone to do it."

R - Resisting cliches

"No matter what I do, I have a feeling it will stay rooted in advocacy for fellow marginalized peoples."

S - Showstopping

"In all that I do, I carry my culture and heritage with me."

T - Tireless

"Aspire to do what you love, then do it constantly and consistently."

U - Unapologetic

"Do your work."

V - Versatile

"I love to watch films constantly. Sitting in a room with strangers while we all laugh and cry watching people make believe is exciting for me."

W - Writing history

"When I feel the spark of an idea, or when I read or hear about injustices in the community, country, and world, I feel the challenge set upon me to write."

X - Xtreme

"Always remember to have fun."

Y - Yearning

"Kindness and compassion are not a sacrifice — but a nourishment for art."

Z - Zesty

"Introducing new people to my cuisine [is] a challenge I always look forward to."