Q1. Tell us about a side project that has meant a lot to you. 

Co-founding my non-profit Asian American Collective has been a life changing experience. What began as an idea to gather Asians together, became a national community of Asian American creatives who have uplifted each other through some of the hardest times. We had no clue what it would become and pursued it blindly, but being able to build this has energized my purpose for life and been an incredible way to give back to the community. 

I also have a podcast I have been doing for a year called “Everything’s Political” and have a deep passion for interviewing and storytelling. I’m working on Season 2 and podcasting has been an ongoing side project for me for years. I hope to one day make it more of a full time pursuit again, but it helps me exercise that muscle.

Q2. Why is it important to have ownership of, and to pursue your own ideas?

It’s so important to value and incubate your own projects. We work for these companies and give away our BEST work constantly. As creatives, that can be soul crushing and it’s important to have little pursuits. Sometimes they turn into bigger pursuits, but having a dream and vision of your own, only for you, is one of the most valuable things any artist can have. 

Q3. What would you say to individuals trying and struggling to move their own side projects forward? 

Don’t give up or doubt yourself. It’s never perfect and every day is a chance to rebuild. Rest and recharge on your energy when you need it, it’s an artist's life force. 

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