Reflecting on this Lunar New Year
- melissachoe
- Feb 12, 2024
- 2 min read
As we step into the New Year of the Dragon, I can’t help but take a moment to pause, appreciate and take pride in all the incredible Asian Women who’ve been making waves and shattering boundaries. Since my days of growing up as a first-generation Korean American immigrant in the 80s, I’ve been deeply inspired by the resilience, courage and excellence in so many Asian Women. Despite differences in age, ethnicity, profession and life experiences, the common thread of being an Asian Woman in the US has served as a powerful source of motivation and encouragement for me, both professionally and personally. Here are just a few of my personal favorites who have left a mark on me:
Connie Chung holds a special place in my heart as the very first Asian Woman I saw on US television embracing power and eloquence – my first role model.
Witnessing Chloe Kim, the world’s best and most daring female snowboarder, flying through the halfpipes at Pyeongchang and Beijing not only gave me chills but extreme pride.
After discovering Sandra Oh as Patti in “Under the Tuscan Sun”, it’s been so empowering and captivating to see her push the boundaries of Asian Women’s roles on TV as Cristina Yang and Eve Poastri.
I cannot help but admire Deb Liu as she is changing the portrait of power itself while empowering other women to take back their power. Not only is she a Silicon Valley powerhouse as the CEO of Ancestry.com, but she sets the gold standard for mentoring and coaching. Personally, her weekly newsletter is not only valuable for its insights but also a testament to the power of consistency.
As an avid sports fan, I was beyond elated when Kim Ng was hired as the Miami Marlins' General Manager in 2020, making history by becoming the first and only woman (not just an Asian Woman) to hold such a position in a North American men's professional sports team, spanning MLB, NFL, NBA and NHL.
Jenny Ming’s journey immediately resonated with me. As a first-generation immigrant who came to the US at the same age as I did, not speaking a word of English, she climbed the ladder to become a founder and president of Old Navy, all without losing her voice or identity – a true trailblazer.
Regardless of your stance on her decision, American-born Gu Ailing’s courage and audacity in choosing to represent China in the Beijing Olympics as the best freestyle skier is undeniably impressive.
“For all the little boys and girls who look like me watching tonight, this is a beacon of hope and possibilities. Dream big, and dreams do come true.” – Michelle Yeoh
So here's to these amazing women and to all the Asian Women out there making their mark. Let's keep breaking down barriers, smashing stereotypes, and showing the world what we're made of. We've still got a long way to go, but together, we'll get there.