“Building Bridges to the Future” is the theme of the 2nd Annual Asian International Leadership Summit at the Goei Center in Grand Rapids organized by the West Michigan Asian American Association.
Luncheon keynote speaker Kristin Meekhof is a nationally recognized author and expert on resilience and gratitude.
She encouraged entrepreneurial spirit and fearless networking in a culture where putting oneself forward isn’t always accepted.
“I’m a Korean adoptee speaking from my own experience but also from witnessing Asians who sometimes are meek in their approach to even standing up for themselves in business situations as well as marketing and promoting themselves and others.”
The goal of the summit is to empower Asian leaders and retain talented individuals by fostering a community where they feel seen, valued and inspired to build a future in the area, and can see other Asians succeeding.
The event included a welcome keynote speech on cultivating leadership skills by Dr. Anthony Chang, founder and CEO of BAMF Health, and workshops on Artificial intelligence, education, entrepreneurship and civic leadership.
“I hope young leaders leave knowing they do deserve a seat at the table and do deserve to have a voice in decisions being made.”
