'InspirASIAN’

How does your lived experience positively influence your work?

My experience as an immigrant to the US really drives how I work in the field of social services. When I came to the US as a student and had very limited resources, I often had to depend on the kindness and generosity of others. It was a journey for me to get to the point of self-sufficiency. I believe most of the people served by my agency are on a similar journey. To be a small part of their journey toward self-sufficiency is an honor.

Who or what inspires you?

I am driven by my faith and the values that were imparted to me by my grandfather. After the passing of my father, we lived as a joint family, with my grandparents, uncles and aunts. The collective wisdom and values that I learnt during that portion of my life still inspires me daily.

What career advice do you live by?

Anyone pursuing a career in public service needs to absolutely embrace these two career practices. The first is mentoring. First, find yourself a mentor and lean into their knowledge and wisdom. Once you reach a point in your career, find the bandwidth to pour into others. I am so thankful to my mentors and mentees over the course of my career. The other valuable career practice is shadowing. I have never turned down an opportunity to observe and learn from others. Shadowing can be time consuming in the short term but greatly rewarding in the grand scheme of one’s career.

What do you/did you love the most about your job?

I wake up each day and get to help people and serve others for a living. What more can one ask for on this earth?

What favorite place have you traveled to or what is the next place on your travel bucket list?

The island of Oahu in Hawaii holds a special place in my heart. The people and natural beauty of Hawaii has left me changed forever. I am looking forward to visiting the other Islands in Hawaii.

Describe what a perfect day outside of work would look like for you?

Setting out on an adventure with my wife and daughter.

Why did you join I-NAPA?

PJ Gagajena invited me to attend the I-NAPA meeting at the 2022 ICMA conference. I joined I-NAPA immediately after the meeting.

Have you developed relationships with our other members? If so, what do you get out of those connections?

The camaraderie that I-NAPA provides is really encouraging. I now have friends in public administration all over the US and beyond.