So many thoughts, where to start... Notice the intro? With every opportunity/platform given is a chance to serve as reminders of humanity. And with that, intentionally asked for “romantic partners” to be added when @moonlynntsai and I entered the stage. There are stigmas where romantic couples are discouraged as cofounders, and at the same time, doing work that supports a generation from a culture where we’re still told by some family members to not “advertise” or “make an announcement” about us being in a relationship with each other— lights a fire to say it even louder and clearer for those of us who’ve ever felt silenced. We should have the choice to exist fully as ourselves, and impact can be made alongside our loved ones. Another important ask was to include our career titles— me as an entrepreneur & actor, and @moonlynntsai as a restauranteur. It IS possible to navigate multidimensionally in ways that resonate with your individual identity and still make space for community contributions & uplifting. It doesn’t always have to be one or the other. Grateful we had the opportunity to speak not only to rebuilding through the work of @heartofdinner but also have the privilege to voice little known facts that have gone under the radar for far too long about the long-standing community issues that exist for Asian Americans. Wrote each word with careful consideration— keeping in mind @forbes invitation to deliver a Ted Talks style speech that shares @heartofdinner’s origin story and how the audience can think about using their own power to drive change. Changemaking only truly exists with empathy as the critical first step. Thank you so much @forbes @forbeswomen @moiraforbes @mailmodels for inviting my Love @moonlynntsai and I on stage at the 10th Annual Forbes Power Womens Summit. So moved and inspired by fellow speakers— brilliant women I’ve had the deepest respect for and admired from afar. ❤️ 📌 Catch this snippet for key info & steps. Link in bio to watch the full speech.