Rising Up Together: AAPI Women’s Leadership Across Generations

Join us for the premier gathering of AAPI women leaders, innovators, and changemakers at the Serica Initiative’s AAPI Women's Gala & Conference 2025! This year, we’re celebrating the theme "Rising Up Together: AAPI Women’s Leadership Across Generations"—an empowering tribute to the voices, vision, and impact of AAPI women across industries, communities, and movements.

Morning Conference | 8:30 AM - 1:00 PM

🔥 Engaging Panels & Fireside Chats – Hear from powerhouse speakers leading change in business, media, technology, activism, and the arts.

🤝 Networking with Purpose – Connect with nearly 200 in a cross-generational community of AAPI men and women professionals, entrepreneurs, and allies.

🌏 Innovative Breakout Sessions – Participate in dynamic conversations on leadership, equity, and the future of AAPI women’s influence.

Tickets now on sale for the most informed AAPI conference of the season! Come get your ticket for only $99 until April 15, after that prices will increase.

Evening Gala | 6:00 PM - 10:00 PM

🌟 Honoring Trailblazers – Celebrate outstanding AAPI women making a difference in their fields.

🍽 Exquisite Dining & Drinks – Indulge in a thoughtfully curated dinner highlighting Asian and Asian American flavors

.🎭 Inspiring Performances – Enjoy an artistic showcase that highlights the depth and diversity of AAPI creativity.

💎 Exclusive Auction & Giving Opportunities – Support the next generation of AAPI leaders and initiatives that drive meaningful change.

Why Attend?

✨ Be Inspired: Gain insight from leaders who have broken barriers and paved the way for future generations.

✨ Expand Your Network: Meet like-minded professionals and mentors dedicated to uplifting AAPI women.

✨ Celebrate Culture & Leadership: Immerse yourself in a powerful evening of storytelling, recognition, and community.

2025 Honorees

The Serica Initiative is proud to announce our 2025 Women's Trailblazer Honorees joining us for our celebration on May 22, 2025 in New York City!

The Chao Family (Elaine, Ruth, Grace, Jeanette, Christine, Angela, May, and father, James Chao)

The Chao Family is a multigenerational legacy of leadership, philanthropy, and public service. Led by the late James Chao, a shipping magnate and founder of Foremost Group, and his wife, the late Ruth Mulan Chu Chao, a devoted educator, the family has exemplified resilience and excellence. Their daughters—Elaine, Ruth, Grace, Jeanette, Christine, the late Angela, and May—have each forged impactful careers in government, business, and philanthropy. Elaine Chao, former U.S. Secretary of Transportation and Labor, is a historic figure in public service, while the family’s philanthropic efforts, including scholarships and educational initiatives, continue to uplift communities worldwide.

Kathy Hirata Chin

Kathy Hirata Chin is a distinguished attorney who spent over 40 years shaping healthcare and real estate law at Crowell & Moring. A trailblazer in public service, she was appointed by multiple New York governors to judicial screening committees and served as a leader in diversity and inclusion efforts in the legal profession. Beyond her career in law, Chin is a devoted advocate for AAPI representation and civic engagement. Her groundbreaking work has paved the way for more inclusive legal and healthcare policies, making a lasting impact on both industries and the broader Asian American community.

Fei-Fei Li

Dr. Fei-Fei Li is a pioneering AI scientist, Stanford professor, and co-director of the Stanford Human-Centered AI Institute. As a former Chief Scientist of AI/ML at Google Cloud, she has been at the forefront of artificial intelligence research, particularly in computer vision and ethical AI. Considered the "Godmother of AI" and a staunch advocate for diversity in STEM, Li founded AI4ALL to expand access to AI education for underrepresented groups. Her groundbreaking work continues to shape the future of AI while emphasizing ethical responsibility, equity, and the human impact of technology.

Maria Ressa

Maria Ressa is a globally renowned journalist, CEO, and co-founder of Rappler, an independent digital news platform known for its fearless reporting. A Nobel Peace Prize laureate, Ressa has dedicated her career to defending press freedom and exposing disinformation, corruption, and authoritarian abuses. She previously spent two decades as CNN’s bureau chief in Manila and Jakarta, reporting on terrorism and Southeast Asian politics. Despite facing relentless legal battles and threats, Ressa remains a steadfast advocate for democracy and truth. Her courage and leadership have earned her global recognition, including TIME’s Person of the Year and UNESCO’s World Press Freedom Prize.

Woraphanit "Please" Ruayrungruang

Woraphanit "Please" Ruayrungruang is the dynamic CEO of Reignwood Group, a multinational conglomerate with investments spanning luxury real estate, aviation, energy, and wellness. As a next-generation leader, she is driving innovation and sustainability in global markets while honoring the company’s legacy. Passionate about philanthropy and women’s empowerment, Ruayrungruang champions initiatives supporting education, healthcare, and economic opportunities for underserved communities. Her leadership marks a new era for Reignwood, blending business excellence with social impact.

🌟 Rising Star Awards

The AAPI Women's Gala & Conference 2025 proudly introduces the Rising Star Nominations to honor aspiring and accomplished women under 40 who are making remarkable contributions across the following categories:

Entrepreneur | Corporate | Non-Profit

This prestigious recognition celebrates women whose professional excellence, leadership, social impact, and innovative thinking are driving positive change within their industries and communities.

Learn more & Nominate a Rising Star

Sponsorship Opportunities

Tickets and sponsorship opportunities available now.

See our sponsorship deck here

Reach out to us at events@sericainitiative.org to learn more about partnerships and opportunities.