SAN FRANCISCO — Betty Yee, a daughter of Chinese immigrant parents who ran a laundry for 30 years, never dreamed of running for office. But when she had to translate for her parents, she learned the value of being a voice for those who can’t express their concerns.
Now Yee is vice chairwoman of the California State Board of Equalization and advocates for underrepresented communities.
Yee, as keynote speaker of the National Association of Asian American Professionals-San Francisco’s inaugural Women’s Leadership Forum on May 31, stood as motivation to the 60 attendees to make themselves heard and break beyond the glass ceiling.
“It is difficult, but not impossible for Asian Pacific Islander women to get into management ranks,” said Kathy Doan, vice president of program development for NAAAP-S.F. “Although there is a perception that Asian women are not assertive, we are extremely fortunate to have many API women [in leadership positions] who all took risks to break through these stereotypes.”
The forum included two panel sessions featuring eight Asian American women at the forefront of companies, and three breakout sessions. In planning for a year, the event was sparked by a Catalyst study that examined how Asian women are less likely to hold high-level positions than other minority women.
Because of the cultural value of respect, Doan said at the forum, Asian women tend to ask for permission too often. “Trust yourself,” she advised. “I trust you. If you think this is the right thing to do, just do it.”
That message resonated with Teresa Leong, an attendee who works in human resources.
“I’m tired of working by myself and doing what I’m told,” said Leong, adding she learned from the forum a number of strategies to apply at work. “I know I need to change myself — but I still can’t find the right niche and how to put myself out there.”
Yan Yang, a business architect for Wells Fargo, agreed that it is difficult for Asian American women to ascend the ranks. “It’s good to hear perspectives from people with a similar cultural background,” she said.
NAAAP-S.F. is already planning its second forum, and Doan hopes this year’s attendees will turn into next year’s success stories.
“I am waiting for the day when I attend a Women’s Leadership Forum and learn that one of the panelists had attended the very first one, which motivated her to break barriers and go beyond,” Doan said.
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