Illustration by Shar Tui’asoa.
VS&Co is excited not only to celebrate with but to support the many cultures within the Asian American Native Hawaiian Pacific Islander community. Beyond using our platform to highlight remarkable individuals through spotlighting associates, we’re partnering with Asian American Federation (AAF).
ALL IN & AAF
Our internal resource group, All IN, is proud to partner with AAF this year by supporting various initiatives the organization focuses on such as mental health, civic engagement, and economic empowerment.
To learn more about AAF and all the work they’re doing within their communities, read here.
Get to Know ALL IN
The Asian Learning, Leadership, and Innovation Network (ALL IN) is one of our Inclusion Resource Groups (IRG) for Asian-American and Pacific Islander associates and their allies. Their mission is to foster diversity and inclusion by celebrating these communities’ heritage, increasing cultural awareness, embracing learning, and cultivating best-in-class leaders.
Spotlight on VS&Co Associates
Megha Chauhan: VP, Product Development, L&A and ALL IN Lead
Q: Who is a leader within the AANHPI community that inspires you and why?
A: “I have been deeply inspired by Indra Nooyi’s journey. I’m currently reading her autobiography, My Life in Full, and I’m so amazed by how she broke barriers in the corporate world. Leaders like her have opened the doors for others like me, encouraging us to strive for leadership positions, explore our best potential, and make our voices heard no matter the industry.”
Jaya Adkins: Associate Communications Manager and ALL IN Co-Lead
Q: Who is a leader within the AANHPI community that inspires you and why?
A: “My Thatha (grandpa) and Amma (grandma) immigrated to the United States from India in 1969. Their strength and bravery amidst the uncertainty and sacrifices they made will forever inspire me. They have always encouraged me to pursue my dreams and as cliché as it sounds, I truly would not be where I am today without them.”
Q: The AANHPI community shares May with Mental Health Awareness Month. What are three ways you protect/prioritize your wellbeing?
A: “Staying active and dedicating time to move my body each day, getting a good night’s sleep, and cuddling with my dog almost always does the trick!”
Upasana Kathuria: Senior Product Developer, L&A and ALL IN Community Engagement Lead
Q: Who is a leader within the AANHPI community that inspires you and why?
A: “The younger generation. I admire not only their courage to advocate for themselves and their community, but also their commitment to bettering the world they will inherit. They are dedicated to addressing issues such as the housing crisis, Palestinian safety, LGBTQ+ joy, BIPOC solidarity, combating antisemitism, and environmental justice.”
Q: The AANHPI community shares May with Mental Health Awareness Month. What are three ways you protect/prioritize your wellbeing?
A: “A supportive community of individuals who share similar experiences, empowering each other to thrive, and regularly attending therapy are some of the ways I protect my mental wellbeing. And the unwavering support of my family also plays a crucial role in safeguarding my mental health.”
Helen Nguyen: DEI Communications Specialist and ALL IN Communications Lead
Q: Who is a leader within the AANHPI community that inspires you and why?
A: “Amanda Nguyen is a remarkable leader and advocate who has inspired many through her tireless efforts to champion the rights of sexual-assault survivors. She is the founder of Rise, a nonprofit organization that focuses on advocating for the rights of survivors of sexual assault and working towards legislative change.”
Q: The AANHPI community shares May with Mental Health Awareness Month. What are three ways you protect/prioritize your wellbeing?
A: “Engaging in Hobbies (trying out Pilates now), connecting with nature, and establishing boundaries.”
Sherri-Ann Altura, Customer Experience Manager Store 1750, Maui
Q: Who is a leader within the AANHPI community inspires you and why?
A: “Patsy T. Mink has been an inspiration for me as she was the first Asian American and woman of color to be elected to Congress. She was born and raised in the plantation town of Paia on the island of Maui. She introduced Title IX to legislation in 1972, advocating for women’s rights and gender and racial equality in education and sports.”
Q: What are 3 ways you protect/prioritize your well-being?
A: “Yearly membership for self-care routines like getting massages, exercise/fun activity/events, and reading.”
Kelsey Pimentel, Senior Manager, Human Resources
Q: Who is a leader within the AANHPI community that inspires you and why?
A: “I’m inspired by CA Congresswoman, Doris Matsui. She is a Japanese American that was born in an internment camp. She is not afraid to take up space—which dispels a common misconception about the ‘meekness or docility’ of AANHPI women.”
Q: The AANHPI community shares May with Mental Health Awareness Month. What are three ways you protect/prioritize your wellbeing?
A: “Daily walks outside, reminding myself that all emotions serve a purpose and finding a work-life synergy that allows me to truly unplug and lean into relationships that make me feel loved, safe, and appreciated.”
Rochelle Cha, Recruiter, Talent Acquisition
Q: Who is a leader within the AANHPI community that inspires you and why?
A: “Kaohly Her was the first of two Hmong American women elected to the Minnesota House of Representatives. It is inspirational to see her pave the way and make a big impact for an underrepresented community. Her prioritization to education for the youth is a value that resonates with me.”
Q: The AANHPI community shares May with Mental Health Awareness Month. What are three ways you protect/prioritize your wellbeing?
A: “Getting eight hours of sleep, enjoying sunlight, and developing a morning routine I love.”
Spotlight on Shar Tui’asoa
Tui’asoa is a Tongan Pacific Islander illustrator and owner of Punky Aloha Studio, based in Hawai’i where she was born and raised. Her work is a bold and colorful celebration of her love for her island culture. She has murals featured throughout Hawai’i and the continental United States and has created artwork for global brands. Her unique style is inspired by the colors and vibrant lifestyle of Hawai’i.aap