I joined the League in 2021, following an invitation from a dedicated League volunteer who recognized my passion for civic engagement and proposed that I take on the leadership role of president. This invitation was not the beginning of my journey but a continuation of a longstanding commitment to fostering voter registration and education within our community.

To me, strength is deeply intertwined with self-awareness and self-respect. It’s about having a profound understanding of one’s identity, roots, and the unique journey that has shaped us. This knowledge fosters a sense of pride in who we are and where we have come from, serving as a foundation for our inner resilience.

Harnessing one’s strength to act, especially in community service and volunteerism, begins with recognizing and tapping into the wellspring of passion and commitment within oneself. My approach to action involves several vital strategies including building collaborative relationships.

The accomplishment that fills me the most is my service to the community during the challenging times of COVID-19, particularly in assisting individuals with securing rental assistance or finding housing. The pandemic brought unprecedented hardships.  I devoted my time after work and on weekends to help those struggling to navigate the complicated application processes required for assistance.

Despite the exhaustion from the long hours and the emotional toll of witnessing the widespread distress, a singular moment transformed my perspective and reaffirmed my commitment. A call from a gentleman I had assisted, solely to express his gratitude, profoundly touched me. His application had not been approved, and he had yet to receive any financial assistance, but his appreciation for being helped was overwhelming. He highlighted the rarity of finding someone willing to extend a helping hand without expecting a reward. This interaction was a poignant reminder of the human aspect of community service—the simple yet profound impact of showing kindness and support during times of need.

Growing up in an environment where material possessions were scarce, my dreams were shaped by the values and experiences of my family life. My parents, embodying the epitome of hard work and dedication, tirelessly ensured that we had the essentials—shelter and sustenance. Observing their relentless effort and sacrifice instilled in me a profound respect for the virtues of hard work and the significance of family.

Amidst this backdrop, my childhood dreams were not just about personal achievements but also about fostering a sense of continuity and connection. I dreamt of a future filled with joyous gatherings, where the warmth of our familial bonds and the beauty of our cultural heritage would be celebrated.

My business career has been fulfilling, but the actual realization of my dream lies in the community that has enveloped me—a community that has grown to become a second family.

My paramount role model is my mother—a woman of unwavering strength and perseverance. Her journey embodies the essence of courage and determination that I deeply admire. Her decision to leave her homeland and reunite with my father in the United States while navigating the complexities of immigration showcases extraordinary resilience and foresight. Despite the risks and uncertainties, she applied for a passport and embarked on this life-altering journey with my uncle without informing my father of her plans. This bold move was not just about seeking a better life; it was a profound faith in the future and the possibilities that lay ahead for our family.

Her actions set in motion a chain of events that would ultimately pave the way for my brothers and me to follow her to the United States, opening doors to previously unimaginable opportunities. The sacrifices she made and her relentless hard work to provide for our family both here and back home exemplify a level of dedication and selflessness that I strive to emulate.

My mother’s journey and her ability to persevere through challenges have been a constant source of inspiration for me.

My strength and actions have profoundly influenced the League, especially in our collective efforts to reach underserved communities and encourage voter participation. Recognizing the importance of inclusivity and representation in the democratic process, I have steered the League towards more proactive, targeted outreach initiatives that resonate with these communities. This has involved not just traditional voter registration drives, but also educational programs designed to demystify the voting process, clarify the importance of each vote, and highlight the impact of civic participation on local and national issues.

By fostering partnerships with local organizations and leveraging media platforms for broader engagement, I’ve helped to amplify our message and reach.

Moreover, my approach has been characterized by a willingness to listen and learn from the communities we aim to serve.