PAST EVENTS
2020 Events

ABL-SF & RAMA Joint Lunar New Year Event - March 6
2020 is off to a fast start. We celebrated the Year of the Metal Rat the right way! We showcased members from ABLSF & Rama Community at the event and gave a platform to share their passions. There was music, dance, comedy, and a chance for everyone to share what projects or business endeavors they were working on in 2020!
Dokkaebier, one of the hottest locally made Korean Beers in the Bay Area, hosted the event at their pop-up location, We heard from the founder, Youngwon Lee, a member of ABL SF.
Admission included one of a kind, original, Korean inspired beer, made by the founder himself, as well as delectable eats by world-class chef, Daniel Wright, former chef at the renowned Michelin restaurant, Saison.
Featured Speaker
Youngwon Lee - Founder of Dokkaebier
Click here: SF-GATE Dokkaebier
Featured Artists
Martin Hsu (Painter)
Wesley Woo of Trace Repeat (Musician)
The Complements (Musician
K. Cheng (Comedian)
Clarence Chang (Spoken word artist/hip-hop dancer)
Lynnay Consol (Musician)
Stephanie Lee, Nathan Ventura, & special guest appearance by
President of Supervisors of SF Norman Yee (Latin dancers)
For more information about ABLSF & RAMA Community
www.ablsf.org
www.ramacommunity.com
2020 is off to a fast start. We celebrated the Year of the Metal Rat the right way! We showcased members from ABLSF & Rama Community at the event and gave a platform to share their passions. There was music, dance, comedy, and a chance for everyone to share what projects or business endeavors they were working on in 2020!
Dokkaebier, one of the hottest locally made Korean Beers in the Bay Area, hosted the event at their pop-up location, We heard from the founder, Youngwon Lee, a member of ABL SF.
Admission included one of a kind, original, Korean inspired beer, made by the founder himself, as well as delectable eats by world-class chef, Daniel Wright, former chef at the renowned Michelin restaurant, Saison.
Featured Speaker
Youngwon Lee - Founder of Dokkaebier
Click here: SF-GATE Dokkaebier
Featured Artists
Martin Hsu (Painter)
Wesley Woo of Trace Repeat (Musician)
The Complements (Musician
K. Cheng (Comedian)
Clarence Chang (Spoken word artist/hip-hop dancer)
Lynnay Consol (Musician)
Stephanie Lee, Nathan Ventura, & special guest appearance by
President of Supervisors of SF Norman Yee (Latin dancers)
For more information about ABLSF & RAMA Community
www.ablsf.org
www.ramacommunity.com

Fifth Annual Career Day - February 21
ABL co-hosted the Fifth Annual Career Day, venued at the illustrious Salesforce Tower in downtown San Francisco, alongside a powerhouse of Bay Area Asian American leadership, including APF-SEAO, Chinatown YMCA and VYDC. A mix of professionals participated on a general panel, then each led their own industry-specific breakout session: Mary Xu, YouTube Support Strategy Program Manager; Stephanie Lee, licensed therapist and dating coach; Ian Szetho, YouTube Partner Operations Manager; Martin Hsu, artist; and Wesley Woo, lead singer and guitarist of Trace Repeat.
The high school student guests hailed from across San Francisco and enjoyed the opportunity to gain frank, personalized knowledge firsthand. Conversations continued past the conclusion of the event, when students took the initiative to approach panelists directly. As could be expected, the panelists also reported enjoying the student interaction during such a well-organized event.
ABL thanks all its co-hosts; the event team, Garland, Denise, Khanh, Vikram, Nancy; the venue host Salesforce; the panelists; the many volunteers from all participating organizations and agencies who work tirelessly to create opportunities for our next generation of leadership and, of course, all the students who participated with curiosity and energy.
This is the fifth annual occurrence of the Career Day; if you are interested in hosting, organizing, sponsoring or volunteering for the sixth annual Career Day, contact Garland Xu at gcxu1021@gmail.com.
ABL co-hosted the Fifth Annual Career Day, venued at the illustrious Salesforce Tower in downtown San Francisco, alongside a powerhouse of Bay Area Asian American leadership, including APF-SEAO, Chinatown YMCA and VYDC. A mix of professionals participated on a general panel, then each led their own industry-specific breakout session: Mary Xu, YouTube Support Strategy Program Manager; Stephanie Lee, licensed therapist and dating coach; Ian Szetho, YouTube Partner Operations Manager; Martin Hsu, artist; and Wesley Woo, lead singer and guitarist of Trace Repeat.
The high school student guests hailed from across San Francisco and enjoyed the opportunity to gain frank, personalized knowledge firsthand. Conversations continued past the conclusion of the event, when students took the initiative to approach panelists directly. As could be expected, the panelists also reported enjoying the student interaction during such a well-organized event.
ABL thanks all its co-hosts; the event team, Garland, Denise, Khanh, Vikram, Nancy; the venue host Salesforce; the panelists; the many volunteers from all participating organizations and agencies who work tirelessly to create opportunities for our next generation of leadership and, of course, all the students who participated with curiosity and energy.
This is the fifth annual occurrence of the Career Day; if you are interested in hosting, organizing, sponsoring or volunteering for the sixth annual Career Day, contact Garland Xu at gcxu1021@gmail.com.
2019 Events

Holiday Party at Tin Cactus - December 10
On December 10th we celebrated the holidays and a fantastic 2019 and reacquainted ourselves with past connections. Joined by current and former ABL-SF board members, lasting relationships were created and experiences were shared on what it means to be involved with a not-for-profit. The future is YOU and what you can do to give back.
Big thanks to our north pole sponsors.
Bank of the West
Michael Acabado | Acabado International
Rick Gutierrez | Zen Accountants/Global Flex
Rick Perez | Citi Bank, Senior Mortgage Loan Consultant
On December 10th we celebrated the holidays and a fantastic 2019 and reacquainted ourselves with past connections. Joined by current and former ABL-SF board members, lasting relationships were created and experiences were shared on what it means to be involved with a not-for-profit. The future is YOU and what you can do to give back.
Big thanks to our north pole sponsors.
Bank of the West
Michael Acabado | Acabado International
Rick Gutierrez | Zen Accountants/Global Flex
Rick Perez | Citi Bank, Senior Mortgage Loan Consultant

Joint Summery BBQ - August 4
The Asian Business League (ABL-SF) and the National Association of Asian American Professionals (NAAAP-SF Bay Area) joined forces and celebrated the summer with a Summer BBQ and Cooking Contest in August!
We issued a challenge to several other Asian professional groups to see which team will be crowned "BBQ Grill Master" this year!
Attendees mingled with professionals from around the Bay Area while enjoying delicious food and drinks. Water and lemonade was provided.
We held a cooking contest where everyone got to be a judge and out of 3 teams RAMA came out on top! Congratulations to the best grilling team.
The Asian Business League (ABL-SF) and the National Association of Asian American Professionals (NAAAP-SF Bay Area) joined forces and celebrated the summer with a Summer BBQ and Cooking Contest in August!
We issued a challenge to several other Asian professional groups to see which team will be crowned "BBQ Grill Master" this year!
Attendees mingled with professionals from around the Bay Area while enjoying delicious food and drinks. Water and lemonade was provided.
We held a cooking contest where everyone got to be a judge and out of 3 teams RAMA came out on top! Congratulations to the best grilling team.

AABA, ABL-SF, and Nakayoshi Hike in to Spring! - June 1
In collaboration with the Asian American Bar Association (AABA) and Nakayoshi Young Professionals, we hosted a joint hiking event at the wonderful Mori Point in Pacifica on Saturday, June 1st.
Hiking events have been an integral part of building relationships in the Asian Pacific American community since 2015. It is a great way to exercise both the mind and the body, as we go to greater heights together! There is no better way to kick off the summer than a relaxing hike and an opportunity to meet some new friends!
Thank you for joining us at Mori Point and for beers at Pedro Point Brewing!
In collaboration with the Asian American Bar Association (AABA) and Nakayoshi Young Professionals, we hosted a joint hiking event at the wonderful Mori Point in Pacifica on Saturday, June 1st.
Hiking events have been an integral part of building relationships in the Asian Pacific American community since 2015. It is a great way to exercise both the mind and the body, as we go to greater heights together! There is no better way to kick off the summer than a relaxing hike and an opportunity to meet some new friends!
Thank you for joining us at Mori Point and for beers at Pedro Point Brewing!

Where Food Meets Culture - May 21
From deep insights into the food and beverage industry to business and life advice, Deuki Hong, Andrew Chau, and Hanson Li engaged a sold out crowd at our 'Where Food Meets Culture' event. A special thanks to all of those who attended the event in support of both Asian Health Services and the Asian Business League of San Francisco - you helped to make the event a wonderful success!
Our appreciation goes out to Crystal Lee for moderating our esteemed panel of guests. We would also like to thank Ethereum Classic Labs for hosting the event, and to 더부스 The Booth Brewing Co., Boba Guys, and Bleu Ribbon Catering & Events for the delicious boba, beer and food.
This is NOT the last time that Asian Health Services and Asian Business League of San Francisco will be teaming up, so be on the lookout for our upcoming events on Facebook!
From deep insights into the food and beverage industry to business and life advice, Deuki Hong, Andrew Chau, and Hanson Li engaged a sold out crowd at our 'Where Food Meets Culture' event. A special thanks to all of those who attended the event in support of both Asian Health Services and the Asian Business League of San Francisco - you helped to make the event a wonderful success!
Our appreciation goes out to Crystal Lee for moderating our esteemed panel of guests. We would also like to thank Ethereum Classic Labs for hosting the event, and to 더부스 The Booth Brewing Co., Boba Guys, and Bleu Ribbon Catering & Events for the delicious boba, beer and food.
This is NOT the last time that Asian Health Services and Asian Business League of San Francisco will be teaming up, so be on the lookout for our upcoming events on Facebook!

APA Heritage Month Kickoff Reception - April 23
For 15 years, CBS Bay Area has collaborated with local businesses, non-profits and community leaders for after-work receptions at its studios in San Francisco to celebrate the diversity of the Bay Area. ABL-SF is so proud to be a part of a network that continues to champion that mission.
This year the collaboration continues with a focus and emphasis on gathering Asian Pacific American business, professional and community organization leaders who are influencers and experts in their respective fields, both for networking with each other and being a resource to the news station for stories as experts and sources.
For 15 years, CBS Bay Area has collaborated with local businesses, non-profits and community leaders for after-work receptions at its studios in San Francisco to celebrate the diversity of the Bay Area. ABL-SF is so proud to be a part of a network that continues to champion that mission.
This year the collaboration continues with a focus and emphasis on gathering Asian Pacific American business, professional and community organization leaders who are influencers and experts in their respective fields, both for networking with each other and being a resource to the news station for stories as experts and sources.

Annual Lunar New Year Party - March 14
Welcoming the Year of the Pig by pigging out! Thanks to our sponsor, Bank of West, we brought everyone back together and welcomed the Year of the Pig at Lefty's Buffet & Giants Dugout Store! It was a grand slam of an event that was made even more special with attendance from fantastic guests like Founder of Kalon SF and Former Miss Asian California, Katie Melanie Lam, and Miss Chinatown USA 2019, Katherine Wu.
This year's theme continued from our wonderful holiday party and focused on "Building Relationships and What it Means to You". Games were played, friends were made, and good times were had. Wish you all good health and wealth for this year and many years to come!
Welcoming the Year of the Pig by pigging out! Thanks to our sponsor, Bank of West, we brought everyone back together and welcomed the Year of the Pig at Lefty's Buffet & Giants Dugout Store! It was a grand slam of an event that was made even more special with attendance from fantastic guests like Founder of Kalon SF and Former Miss Asian California, Katie Melanie Lam, and Miss Chinatown USA 2019, Katherine Wu.
This year's theme continued from our wonderful holiday party and focused on "Building Relationships and What it Means to You". Games were played, friends were made, and good times were had. Wish you all good health and wealth for this year and many years to come!

4th Annual Youth Program Career Day Panel Discovery - February 22
We inspired future trail blazers through a combined venture between Chinatown YMCA, Vietnamese Youth Development Center (VYDC), ABL-SF, and Salesforce. In a massive collaborative effort, we were able to host an engaging event at the Salesforce Tower, where over 80 high school students from across the San Francisco School District got together for one afternoon with the purpose to discover and learn the different possible avenues of career success!
Our focus this year primarily revolved around offering the other point of view on success, the success that can be achieved through non-traditional routes. It was personified through our outstanding speakers, such as news anchor Kenny Choi from KPIX 5, angel investor Tiffany Wang, drone pilot Reiner Von Weber, and many more! It was an inspiring event, as we got to see gleeful students engage with our speakers in a genuine conversation about what amazing careers they have and how they can get there as well!
We inspired future trail blazers through a combined venture between Chinatown YMCA, Vietnamese Youth Development Center (VYDC), ABL-SF, and Salesforce. In a massive collaborative effort, we were able to host an engaging event at the Salesforce Tower, where over 80 high school students from across the San Francisco School District got together for one afternoon with the purpose to discover and learn the different possible avenues of career success!
Our focus this year primarily revolved around offering the other point of view on success, the success that can be achieved through non-traditional routes. It was personified through our outstanding speakers, such as news anchor Kenny Choi from KPIX 5, angel investor Tiffany Wang, drone pilot Reiner Von Weber, and many more! It was an inspiring event, as we got to see gleeful students engage with our speakers in a genuine conversation about what amazing careers they have and how they can get there as well!
2018 Events

Annual Holiday Party - November 15
The ABL-SF Annual Holiday Party returned this past year at the Toy Soliders in SF! We celebrated the end of a phenomenal 2018 amongst friends and distinguished colleagues. On a cozy winter night, we gathered to drink and eat to establish new relationships and even reconnect on some old ones.
Our outstanding speakers - such as California State Treasurer-Elect, Fiona Ma - gave us a detailed insight about their pathways to success. Each shared a unique and original story that talked about the importance and benefit of being involved in community, networking, and giving back!
The ABL-SF Annual Holiday Party returned this past year at the Toy Soliders in SF! We celebrated the end of a phenomenal 2018 amongst friends and distinguished colleagues. On a cozy winter night, we gathered to drink and eat to establish new relationships and even reconnect on some old ones.
Our outstanding speakers - such as California State Treasurer-Elect, Fiona Ma - gave us a detailed insight about their pathways to success. Each shared a unique and original story that talked about the importance and benefit of being involved in community, networking, and giving back!

May Mingle - May 31
ABL ended Asian Pacific American heritage month with some drinks, appetizers and a chance to connect with like-minded individuals at Toy Soldier on 52 Belden Palce in SF.
ABL ended Asian Pacific American heritage month with some drinks, appetizers and a chance to connect with like-minded individuals at Toy Soldier on 52 Belden Palce in SF.

Asian Pacific American Heritage Month Kickoff Mixer - April 18
For the second year in a row, the Bay Area's Asian professional leaders and organizations hosted a joint networking mixer in celebration of Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month. The mixer kickoffed off APA Heritage Month and took place on the outdoor patio of Jones, located at 620 Jones in San Francisco.
May 2018 marks the 40th anniversary of Asian Pacific American Heritage Month (APAHM), which celebrates the culture, history, traditions, achievements and contributions of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders in the United States.
COMMUNITY PARTNERS
APA Heritage Foundation
Asian American Bar Association of the Greater Bay Area
Asian American Donor Program
Asian Business League of San Francisco
Asian Google Network
Asian Pacific American Bar Association Silicon Valley
Center for Asian American Media
Chinese Culture Center of San Francisco
Chinese Real Estate Association of America
Corporate Asian American Employee Network
Filipino American Arts Exposition
Filipino American Bar Association of Northern California
Hawaiian Chamber of Commerce of Northern California
Miss Asian Global and Miss Asian America Pageant
Nakayoshi Young Professionals
National Association of Asian American Professionals
Nihonmachi Street Fair
San Francisco Chamber of Commerce
South Asian Bar Association of Northern California
Taiwanese American Professionals - San Francisco
Verakin Real Estate
Vietnamese American Bar Association of Northern California
Vietnamese Youth Development Center
Your Filipino Professionals Association
For the second year in a row, the Bay Area's Asian professional leaders and organizations hosted a joint networking mixer in celebration of Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month. The mixer kickoffed off APA Heritage Month and took place on the outdoor patio of Jones, located at 620 Jones in San Francisco.
May 2018 marks the 40th anniversary of Asian Pacific American Heritage Month (APAHM), which celebrates the culture, history, traditions, achievements and contributions of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders in the United States.
COMMUNITY PARTNERS
APA Heritage Foundation
Asian American Bar Association of the Greater Bay Area
Asian American Donor Program
Asian Business League of San Francisco
Asian Google Network
Asian Pacific American Bar Association Silicon Valley
Center for Asian American Media
Chinese Culture Center of San Francisco
Chinese Real Estate Association of America
Corporate Asian American Employee Network
Filipino American Arts Exposition
Filipino American Bar Association of Northern California
Hawaiian Chamber of Commerce of Northern California
Miss Asian Global and Miss Asian America Pageant
Nakayoshi Young Professionals
National Association of Asian American Professionals
Nihonmachi Street Fair
San Francisco Chamber of Commerce
South Asian Bar Association of Northern California
Taiwanese American Professionals - San Francisco
Verakin Real Estate
Vietnamese American Bar Association of Northern California
Vietnamese Youth Development Center
Your Filipino Professionals Association

Career Day Panel and Pizza Dinner - Feb. 9
Over 70 teens joined ABL on Feb. 9 for our Career Day and Pizza Dinner, organized in partnership with the Chinatown YMCA and Vietnamese Youth Development Center. Thanks to Salesforce for sponsoring the event.
Speakers included:
Jeffrey Chen, Software engineer at Square
Greg Gilvison, Chef
Grace Horikiri, Graphic Designer and Executive Director of Nihonmachi Street Fair
Keith Koo, Radio and Podcast Host and Entrepreneur
Ethel Reddy, Cosmetologist and Make Up Artist
Over 70 teens joined ABL on Feb. 9 for our Career Day and Pizza Dinner, organized in partnership with the Chinatown YMCA and Vietnamese Youth Development Center. Thanks to Salesforce for sponsoring the event.
Speakers included:
Jeffrey Chen, Software engineer at Square
Greg Gilvison, Chef
Grace Horikiri, Graphic Designer and Executive Director of Nihonmachi Street Fair
Keith Koo, Radio and Podcast Host and Entrepreneur
Ethel Reddy, Cosmetologist and Make Up Artist

Warriors Asian Heritage Night - Dec. 11
ABL-SF cheered on our NBA Champions - the Golden State Warriors on Dec. 11th as they took on the Portland Trail Blazers.
ABL-SF cheered on our NBA Champions - the Golden State Warriors on Dec. 11th as they took on the Portland Trail Blazers.

Asian Pacific American Holiday Party - Nov. 28
First ever joint Asian Pacific American Holiday Party co-organized by the Asian Business League of San Francisco in partnership with the APA Heritage Foundation, Asian American Bar Association of the Greater Bay Area, Asian American Donor Program, Chinese Culture Center of San Francisco, Chinese Real Estate Association of America, Corporate Asian American Employee Network, Nakayoshi Young Professionals, San Francisco Chamber of Commerce, Taiwanese American Professionals - San Francisco, and Your Filipino Professionals Association took place on November 28 at David Rio Chai Bar.
Due to the success of our first ever joint mixer in celebration of Asian Pacific American Heritage Month this past May, our groups decided to once again collaborate and host a holiday party.
For additional event photos by Angela Pang, click here.
First ever joint Asian Pacific American Holiday Party co-organized by the Asian Business League of San Francisco in partnership with the APA Heritage Foundation, Asian American Bar Association of the Greater Bay Area, Asian American Donor Program, Chinese Culture Center of San Francisco, Chinese Real Estate Association of America, Corporate Asian American Employee Network, Nakayoshi Young Professionals, San Francisco Chamber of Commerce, Taiwanese American Professionals - San Francisco, and Your Filipino Professionals Association took place on November 28 at David Rio Chai Bar.
Due to the success of our first ever joint mixer in celebration of Asian Pacific American Heritage Month this past May, our groups decided to once again collaborate and host a holiday party.
For additional event photos by Angela Pang, click here.

Financial Literacy Workshop - Oct. 13
San Francisco teens learned about credit: the good, the bad, and the ugly of borrowing money on Friday, October 13 at the Chinatown YMCA.
Topics included: How do credit cards work? What is compounded interest? Did that pair of new shoes really cost you the amount you charged on your card?
The event was sponsored by Wells Fargo and Bank of the West.
San Francisco teens learned about credit: the good, the bad, and the ugly of borrowing money on Friday, October 13 at the Chinatown YMCA.
Topics included: How do credit cards work? What is compounded interest? Did that pair of new shoes really cost you the amount you charged on your card?
The event was sponsored by Wells Fargo and Bank of the West.

Whiskey Tasting at the Fly Trap - Oct. 6
The Asian Business League of San Francisco organized a fun Friday evening at the historic San Francisco Fly Trap located at 606 Folsom Street in San Francisco from 5:30pm to 7pm. Proprietor and mixologist extraordinaire Valen West presented two classic whiskey drinks and one special creation: Old Fashioned, Boulevardier, and Blonde Manhattan.
The Asian Business League of San Francisco organized a fun Friday evening at the historic San Francisco Fly Trap located at 606 Folsom Street in San Francisco from 5:30pm to 7pm. Proprietor and mixologist extraordinaire Valen West presented two classic whiskey drinks and one special creation: Old Fashioned, Boulevardier, and Blonde Manhattan.

Redwood Regional Park - Sept. 23
The Asian American Bar Association of the Greater Bay Area, Asian Business League of San Francisco, and Your Filipino Professionals Association monthly joint hike took place at Redwood Regional Park in Oakland and was an easy-moderate 3.7 mile hike.
The Asian American Bar Association of the Greater Bay Area, Asian Business League of San Francisco, and Your Filipino Professionals Association monthly joint hike took place at Redwood Regional Park in Oakland and was an easy-moderate 3.7 mile hike.

Mori Point Hike - Aug. 26
The Asian American Bar Association of the Greater Bay Area (AABA), the Asian Business League of San Francisco (ABL-SF) and Nakayoshi Young Professionals hiked Mori Point in Pacifica.
The Asian American Bar Association of the Greater Bay Area (AABA), the Asian Business League of San Francisco (ABL-SF) and Nakayoshi Young Professionals hiked Mori Point in Pacifica.

Land's End Hike - July 29
The Asian American Bar Association of the Greater Bay Area (AABA), the Asian Business League of San Francisco (ABL-SF) and Nakayoshi Young Professionals hiked the Land's End Trail in San Francisco on July 27th.
The Asian American Bar Association of the Greater Bay Area (AABA), the Asian Business League of San Francisco (ABL-SF) and Nakayoshi Young Professionals hiked the Land's End Trail in San Francisco on July 27th.

Airbnb Office Visit - June 26
Each year ABL-SF organizes an annual series of work site visits during which students have the opportunity to learn about and see first-hand how businesses operate. Through these visits students learn about careers in financial services, marketing, operations, human resources, public relations and management as well as important concepts such as customer service, business strategy and entrepreneurship. Thanks to ABL-SF Vice President Cindy Vu Garcia, teens from the Chinatown YMCA's summer program got to visit Airbnb in San Francisco.
Previous site visits include Wells Fargo, PG&E, Sports Basement, the San Francisco Food Bank, the San Francisco Giants, Pocket Gems and San Francisco City Hall.
Each year ABL-SF organizes an annual series of work site visits during which students have the opportunity to learn about and see first-hand how businesses operate. Through these visits students learn about careers in financial services, marketing, operations, human resources, public relations and management as well as important concepts such as customer service, business strategy and entrepreneurship. Thanks to ABL-SF Vice President Cindy Vu Garcia, teens from the Chinatown YMCA's summer program got to visit Airbnb in San Francisco.
Previous site visits include Wells Fargo, PG&E, Sports Basement, the San Francisco Food Bank, the San Francisco Giants, Pocket Gems and San Francisco City Hall.

Stinson Beach Hike - June 24
The Asian American Bar Association of the Greater Bay Area (AABA), the Asian Business League of San Francisco (ABL-SF) and Nakayoshi Young Professionals hiked the Dipsea Steep Ravine Matt Davis Loop Trail, a 6.8 mile trail near Stinson Beach, California on June 24th.
The Asian American Bar Association of the Greater Bay Area (AABA), the Asian Business League of San Francisco (ABL-SF) and Nakayoshi Young Professionals hiked the Dipsea Steep Ravine Matt Davis Loop Trail, a 6.8 mile trail near Stinson Beach, California on June 24th.

Joint APA Heritage Month Mixer - May 17
The APA Heritage Foundation, Asian American Bar Association of the Greater Bay Area, Asian Business League of San Francisco, Asian Pacific American Bar Association Silicon Valley, Chinese Real Estate Association of America, Corporate Asian American Employee Network, Filipino American Bar Association of Northern California, Miss Asian Global and Miss Asian America Pageant, Nakayoshi Young Professionals, National Association of Asian American Professionals San Francisco Bay Area, San Francisco Chamber of Commerce, South Asian Bar Association of Northern California, Taiwanese American Professionals - San Francisco, Vietnamese American Bar Association of Northern California, Vietnamese Youth Development Center and Your Filipino Professionals Association hosted the first ever joint mixer in celebration of Asian Pacific American Heritage Month on May 17th at Jones in San Francisco.
We were pleased to see over 200 of our members and supporters in attendance, exchanging business cards and connecting with both new and old friends.
For additional event photos by Frank Jang, click here.
The APA Heritage Foundation, Asian American Bar Association of the Greater Bay Area, Asian Business League of San Francisco, Asian Pacific American Bar Association Silicon Valley, Chinese Real Estate Association of America, Corporate Asian American Employee Network, Filipino American Bar Association of Northern California, Miss Asian Global and Miss Asian America Pageant, Nakayoshi Young Professionals, National Association of Asian American Professionals San Francisco Bay Area, San Francisco Chamber of Commerce, South Asian Bar Association of Northern California, Taiwanese American Professionals - San Francisco, Vietnamese American Bar Association of Northern California, Vietnamese Youth Development Center and Your Filipino Professionals Association hosted the first ever joint mixer in celebration of Asian Pacific American Heritage Month on May 17th at Jones in San Francisco.
We were pleased to see over 200 of our members and supporters in attendance, exchanging business cards and connecting with both new and old friends.
For additional event photos by Frank Jang, click here.

Mission Peak Hike - May 13
ABL-SF partnered with our friends at the Asian American Bar Association of the Greater Bay Area (AABA) and Asian Pacific American Bar Association of Silicon Valley (APABA-SV) for a joint hike to Mission Peak in Fremont on Saturday, May 13th
ABL-SF partnered with our friends at the Asian American Bar Association of the Greater Bay Area (AABA) and Asian Pacific American Bar Association of Silicon Valley (APABA-SV) for a joint hike to Mission Peak in Fremont on Saturday, May 13th

KPIX/CBS San Francisco APA Heritage Month Kickoff - April 26
KPIX CBS San Francisco Bay Area, KBCW TV, KCBS All News Radio, 99.7[NOW!], Alice@97.3, LIVE105 in collaboration with ABL-SF (Asian Business League of San Francisco) and Oakland Asian Cultural Center kicked off Asian Pacific American Heritage Month which is celebrated nationally every May at CBS studios located at 855 Battery St. in San Francisco on April 26, 2017.
KPIX TV, ABL-SF, and OACC were honored by the California Board of Equalization Member Fiona Ma's office with certificates in recognition of their leadership role and contributions to the APA community.
KPIX CBS San Francisco Bay Area, KBCW TV, KCBS All News Radio, 99.7[NOW!], Alice@97.3, LIVE105 in collaboration with ABL-SF (Asian Business League of San Francisco) and Oakland Asian Cultural Center kicked off Asian Pacific American Heritage Month which is celebrated nationally every May at CBS studios located at 855 Battery St. in San Francisco on April 26, 2017.
KPIX TV, ABL-SF, and OACC were honored by the California Board of Equalization Member Fiona Ma's office with certificates in recognition of their leadership role and contributions to the APA community.

Small Business Spotlight: Sam Wo Restaurant - April 20
ABL-SF continued our small business spotlight series, highlighting Sam Wo Restaurant, which has been a Chinatown staple for over 100 years on April 20. The first 15 guests received a souvenir DVD highlighting Sam Wo's colorful history produced by local sports anchor and reporter Rick Quan.
Steven Lee was on hand to share how he and Jonathan Leong along with other investors helped fund the reopening of Sam Wo and found a new Chinatown location for the restaurant after it closed in 2012. Julie Ho, daughter of owner/chef David Ho, shared her family's history and colorful stories about the restaurant.
ABL-SF continued our small business spotlight series, highlighting Sam Wo Restaurant, which has been a Chinatown staple for over 100 years on April 20. The first 15 guests received a souvenir DVD highlighting Sam Wo's colorful history produced by local sports anchor and reporter Rick Quan.
Steven Lee was on hand to share how he and Jonathan Leong along with other investors helped fund the reopening of Sam Wo and found a new Chinatown location for the restaurant after it closed in 2012. Julie Ho, daughter of owner/chef David Ho, shared her family's history and colorful stories about the restaurant.

Trivia Night at Rosenblum Cellars - April 11
ABL-SF organized a team for a fun trivia night at Rosenblum Cellars located at 10 Clay St. in Oakland. There were five rounds of ten questions on pop culture, music, and more, and our team - Crimson Flights, finished in first place!
ABL-SF organized a team for a fun trivia night at Rosenblum Cellars located at 10 Clay St. in Oakland. There were five rounds of ten questions on pop culture, music, and more, and our team - Crimson Flights, finished in first place!

Lunar New Year Party Sponsored by Capital One - February 23
The Asian Business League of San Francisco (ABL-SF) celebrated the Year of the Rooster on Thursday, Feb. 23, 2017 at Capital One Cafe - Union Square located at 101 Post St. in San Francisco.
ABL-SF aims to INSPIRE, CONNECT and ENGAGE leaders within the Asian American/Pacific Islander business community. www.ablsf.org.
A big thank you to Capital One for hosting us and sponsoring the event!
For additional event photos, click here.
The Asian Business League of San Francisco (ABL-SF) celebrated the Year of the Rooster on Thursday, Feb. 23, 2017 at Capital One Cafe - Union Square located at 101 Post St. in San Francisco.
ABL-SF aims to INSPIRE, CONNECT and ENGAGE leaders within the Asian American/Pacific Islander business community. www.ablsf.org.
A big thank you to Capital One for hosting us and sponsoring the event!
For additional event photos, click here.

Career Discovery Day Panel - February 17
The 3rd annual Career Discovery Day organized by the Asian Business League of San Francisco, Chinatown YMCA, and Vietnamese Youth Development Center and sponsored by Salesforce's Pacific Force took place on Feb. 17 at Salesforce Cafe in San Francisco. There was a moderated panel followed by break out sessions. Speakers gave advice on how to navigate parental expectations, be open to how there can be different ways to get to your profession, and find majors and careers they are passionate about.
Speakers included:
Cynthia Huie, owner of Seedstore and President of the Clement Street Merchants Association
Charles Jung, trial lawyer at Nassiri & Jung LLP and Elections Commissioner for the City and County of San Francisco
Potluck Mittal, software engineer at Clever
Gino Ramos, Operations Manager at Salesforce andCo-Founder of OutForce, salesforce.com's Lesbian Gay Bisexual Transgender & Allies Employee Resource Group (LGBTA ERG).
Ne-Jhey Thompson, Salesforce and Year Up Intern
Mabel Yang, Pediatrician at North East Medical Services
For event photos, click here.
The 3rd annual Career Discovery Day organized by the Asian Business League of San Francisco, Chinatown YMCA, and Vietnamese Youth Development Center and sponsored by Salesforce's Pacific Force took place on Feb. 17 at Salesforce Cafe in San Francisco. There was a moderated panel followed by break out sessions. Speakers gave advice on how to navigate parental expectations, be open to how there can be different ways to get to your profession, and find majors and careers they are passionate about.
Speakers included:
Cynthia Huie, owner of Seedstore and President of the Clement Street Merchants Association
Charles Jung, trial lawyer at Nassiri & Jung LLP and Elections Commissioner for the City and County of San Francisco
Potluck Mittal, software engineer at Clever
Gino Ramos, Operations Manager at Salesforce andCo-Founder of OutForce, salesforce.com's Lesbian Gay Bisexual Transgender & Allies Employee Resource Group (LGBTA ERG).
Ne-Jhey Thompson, Salesforce and Year Up Intern
Mabel Yang, Pediatrician at North East Medical Services
For event photos, click here.

Community Partner Meeting - Jan. 26
ABL-SF organized e meeting with fellow Asian Pacific American professional group leaders from the Asian American Bar Association, Chinese Real Estate Association of America, Corporate Asian American Employee Network, National Association of Asian American Professionals, Nakayoshi Young Professionals, SF Chamber of Commerce, Taiwanese American Professionals, and Your Filipino Professionals Association on ways we can collaborate and engage the professional APA community.
ABL-SF organized e meeting with fellow Asian Pacific American professional group leaders from the Asian American Bar Association, Chinese Real Estate Association of America, Corporate Asian American Employee Network, National Association of Asian American Professionals, Nakayoshi Young Professionals, SF Chamber of Commerce, Taiwanese American Professionals, and Your Filipino Professionals Association on ways we can collaborate and engage the professional APA community.
2016 Events

Ugly Sweater Holiday Party - Dec. 7
The Asian Business League of San Francisco celebrated the holidays on Wednesday, December 7th from 6-9 p.m. at Infusion Lounge located at 124 Ellis St. in San Francisco. Attendees came dressed in their "Ugly Christmas Sweater" and had their picture taken at our photo booth generously donated by A Vanity Affair. Guests enjoyed complimentary massages courtesy of David Holcomb.
New toys were collected and will be donated to the Vietnamese Youth Development Center.
NORTH POLE SPONSOR
Comerica Bank
SANTA SPONSOR
Luen Lam and Judie Ngov
REINDEER SPONSOR
Silicon Valley Real Ventures
Special thanks to our community partners: Asian American Bar Association of the Greater Bay Area, Asian Business Connectors, Chinese Real Estate Association of America, Corporate Asian American Employee Network, igniteXL, Korean American Professional Society, Nakayoshi Young Professionals, National Association of Asian American Professionals, Oakland Asian Cultural Center, SF Chamber of Commerce, SF Hep B Free, Taiwanese American Professionals-SF, and Your Filipino Professionals Association.
The Asian Business League of San Francisco celebrated the holidays on Wednesday, December 7th from 6-9 p.m. at Infusion Lounge located at 124 Ellis St. in San Francisco. Attendees came dressed in their "Ugly Christmas Sweater" and had their picture taken at our photo booth generously donated by A Vanity Affair. Guests enjoyed complimentary massages courtesy of David Holcomb.
New toys were collected and will be donated to the Vietnamese Youth Development Center.
NORTH POLE SPONSOR
Comerica Bank
SANTA SPONSOR
Luen Lam and Judie Ngov
REINDEER SPONSOR
Silicon Valley Real Ventures
Special thanks to our community partners: Asian American Bar Association of the Greater Bay Area, Asian Business Connectors, Chinese Real Estate Association of America, Corporate Asian American Employee Network, igniteXL, Korean American Professional Society, Nakayoshi Young Professionals, National Association of Asian American Professionals, Oakland Asian Cultural Center, SF Chamber of Commerce, SF Hep B Free, Taiwanese American Professionals-SF, and Your Filipino Professionals Association.

Warriors Asian Heritage Night - Dec. 1
The ABL-SF (Asian Business League of San Francisco) cheered on our 2016 Western Conference Champions - the Golden State Warriors on Thursday, Dec. 1 as they took on the Houston Rockets at 7:30 p.m. ABL was joined by our friends at Nakayoshi NCWNP Young Professionals and the Asian Business Connectors.
The ABL-SF (Asian Business League of San Francisco) cheered on our 2016 Western Conference Champions - the Golden State Warriors on Thursday, Dec. 1 as they took on the Houston Rockets at 7:30 p.m. ABL was joined by our friends at Nakayoshi NCWNP Young Professionals and the Asian Business Connectors.

You are the CEO of You! Leadership Program - Sept. 13 to Nov. 7
The Asian Business League of San Francisco is proud to have once again produced the highly acclaimed You are the CEO of You! Leadership Program which kicked off on Sept. 13 and concluded on November 7. This bi-weekly five-part series has been uniquely developed for Asian professionals, men and women, with managerial experience. Each session was carefully designed to provide an intimate learning environment for each participant and allowed them to explore concepts and acquire the skills necessary to achieve personal and career success. The program addressed unique issues and challenges confronted by many Asian professionals.
Speakers included Buck Gee, retired from Cisco Systems who discussed what it takes to be an Asian American leader, Stephen Jeong, Waypoint People Solutions, who discussed leadership styles, and Eugene Lee of Artiman Ventures, who discussed Managing vs. Leading, Miriam Lopez, Chevron, who discussed effective communication techniques, and Rick Gutierrez of SOAProjects who shared tips for career changes and advancement. Sessions were facilitated by Michael Soon Lee, EthnoConnect Founder and CEO.
Thanks to our ABL-SF Board Members Keith Koo and Jinah Oh for chairing the program!
Special thanks to Davis Wright Tremaine for hosting sessions 1-4 and the Small Business Administration for hosting session 5.
For additional photos, click here.
The Asian Business League of San Francisco is proud to have once again produced the highly acclaimed You are the CEO of You! Leadership Program which kicked off on Sept. 13 and concluded on November 7. This bi-weekly five-part series has been uniquely developed for Asian professionals, men and women, with managerial experience. Each session was carefully designed to provide an intimate learning environment for each participant and allowed them to explore concepts and acquire the skills necessary to achieve personal and career success. The program addressed unique issues and challenges confronted by many Asian professionals.
Speakers included Buck Gee, retired from Cisco Systems who discussed what it takes to be an Asian American leader, Stephen Jeong, Waypoint People Solutions, who discussed leadership styles, and Eugene Lee of Artiman Ventures, who discussed Managing vs. Leading, Miriam Lopez, Chevron, who discussed effective communication techniques, and Rick Gutierrez of SOAProjects who shared tips for career changes and advancement. Sessions were facilitated by Michael Soon Lee, EthnoConnect Founder and CEO.
Thanks to our ABL-SF Board Members Keith Koo and Jinah Oh for chairing the program!
Special thanks to Davis Wright Tremaine for hosting sessions 1-4 and the Small Business Administration for hosting session 5.
For additional photos, click here.

Joint ABL-SF, AABA, and OACC, and Hike - Sept. 24
ABL-SF (Asian Business League of San Francisco) teamed with our friends at the AABA - Asian American Bar Association of the Greater Bay Area andOakland Asian Cultural Center for a joint hike to Tilden Regional Park - along the Nimitz Way Trail on September 24th.
Thanks to AABA - Asian American Bar Association of the Greater Bay Area's John Lough, Jr. for leading this hike!
ABL-SF, AABA, and OACC's joint hikes will take place the last weekend of every month and will be a fun and informal way to meet new people, network, and explore the beauty of the Bay Area.
For additional photos courtesy of AABA click here.
ABL-SF (Asian Business League of San Francisco) teamed with our friends at the AABA - Asian American Bar Association of the Greater Bay Area andOakland Asian Cultural Center for a joint hike to Tilden Regional Park - along the Nimitz Way Trail on September 24th.
Thanks to AABA - Asian American Bar Association of the Greater Bay Area's John Lough, Jr. for leading this hike!
ABL-SF, AABA, and OACC's joint hikes will take place the last weekend of every month and will be a fun and informal way to meet new people, network, and explore the beauty of the Bay Area.
For additional photos courtesy of AABA click here.

Resume and Interview Workshop for Teens - Sept. 16
The Asian Business League of San Francisco and the Chinatown YMCA hosted a free Interview and Resume Workshop for Teens on Friday, September 16.
Students were interviewed in 10-15 minute intervals and they immediately received constructive feedback from their interviewer. Ongoing breakout sessions occurred throughout the event focusing on resume tips, attire do's and don'ts, communication and etiquette, and students also participated in a brief online career assessment test.
Special thanks to our ABL youth program sponsor Wells Fargo and to the mock interview and workshop event sponsors Bank of the West, Recology and the Japantown Merchants Association.
Thanks also to our volunteers from Bank of the West, Wells Fargo and Lyft for coming out to share their tips with the youth!
For additional event photos, click here.
The Asian Business League of San Francisco and the Chinatown YMCA hosted a free Interview and Resume Workshop for Teens on Friday, September 16.
Students were interviewed in 10-15 minute intervals and they immediately received constructive feedback from their interviewer. Ongoing breakout sessions occurred throughout the event focusing on resume tips, attire do's and don'ts, communication and etiquette, and students also participated in a brief online career assessment test.
Special thanks to our ABL youth program sponsor Wells Fargo and to the mock interview and workshop event sponsors Bank of the West, Recology and the Japantown Merchants Association.
Thanks also to our volunteers from Bank of the West, Wells Fargo and Lyft for coming out to share their tips with the youth!
For additional event photos, click here.

Joint ABL-SF, AABA, and OACC Hike - Aug. 27
The Asian Business League of San Francisco teamed up with our friends at the Asian American Bar Association of the Greater Bay Area and Oakland Asian Cultural Center for a joint hike to Crystal Springs, San Mateo on Saturday, August 27.
ABL-SF, AABA, and OACC's joint hikes will take place the last weekend of every month and will be a fun and informal way to meet new people, network, and explore the beauty of the Bay Area.

Financial Planning Panel Sponsored by Wells Fargo - Aug. 2
The Asian Business League of San Francisco organized a financial planning workshop for young Asian professionals on Tuesday, Aug. 2 at New York Life located at 425 Market St. Suite 1600 in San Francisco. The event was sponsored by Wells Fargo and featured an expert panel including financial advisor and ABL-SF Vice President Mike Pyon, Wells Fargo financial advisor Chiu Wu, and Clifford Cheung, CPA. Panelists discussed creating a budget, life and cash flow management, wealth accumulation, retirement planning, investment opportunities with tax shelters and more.
COMMUNITY PARTNERS:
Asia Society of Northern California's Young Professionals Group, Asian Pacific Fund, Corporate Asian American Employee Network, Filipino American Arts Exposition, Korean American Professional Society, Nakayoshi Young Professionals, National Association of Asian American Professionals - SF Bay Area, SF Chamber of Commerce, Taiwanese American Professionals - SF, Vietnamese Youth Development Center, Your Filipino Professionals Association
VENUE HOST:
Jenny Yu of New York Life
For more pictures, click here.
The Asian Business League of San Francisco organized a financial planning workshop for young Asian professionals on Tuesday, Aug. 2 at New York Life located at 425 Market St. Suite 1600 in San Francisco. The event was sponsored by Wells Fargo and featured an expert panel including financial advisor and ABL-SF Vice President Mike Pyon, Wells Fargo financial advisor Chiu Wu, and Clifford Cheung, CPA. Panelists discussed creating a budget, life and cash flow management, wealth accumulation, retirement planning, investment opportunities with tax shelters and more.
COMMUNITY PARTNERS:
Asia Society of Northern California's Young Professionals Group, Asian Pacific Fund, Corporate Asian American Employee Network, Filipino American Arts Exposition, Korean American Professional Society, Nakayoshi Young Professionals, National Association of Asian American Professionals - SF Bay Area, SF Chamber of Commerce, Taiwanese American Professionals - SF, Vietnamese Youth Development Center, Your Filipino Professionals Association
VENUE HOST:
Jenny Yu of New York Life
For more pictures, click here.

ABL-SF and AABA Joint Hike - July 30
The Asian Business League of San Francisco teamed with our friends at the Asian American Bar Association of the Greater Bay Area and the Oakland Asian Cultural Center for a joint hike to Mori Point in Pacifica on Saturday, July 30th.
This hike was led by AABA's John Lough, Jr.
ABL-SF and AABA's joint hikes will take place the last weekend of every month and will be a fun and informal way to meet new people, network, and explore the beauty of the Bay Area.
For more pictures, click here.
The Asian Business League of San Francisco teamed with our friends at the Asian American Bar Association of the Greater Bay Area and the Oakland Asian Cultural Center for a joint hike to Mori Point in Pacifica on Saturday, July 30th.
This hike was led by AABA's John Lough, Jr.
ABL-SF and AABA's joint hikes will take place the last weekend of every month and will be a fun and informal way to meet new people, network, and explore the beauty of the Bay Area.
For more pictures, click here.

ABL-SF and AABA Joint Hike - June 25
ABL-SF (Asian Business League of San Francisco teamed up with our friends at the Asian American Bar Association of the Greater Bay Area for a joint hike to Land's End in San Francisco on Saturday, June 25,
ABL's hikes will take place the last weekend of every month and will be a fun and informal way to meet new people, network, and explore the beauty of the Bay Area.
For additional event photos, click here.
ABL-SF (Asian Business League of San Francisco teamed up with our friends at the Asian American Bar Association of the Greater Bay Area for a joint hike to Land's End in San Francisco on Saturday, June 25,
ABL's hikes will take place the last weekend of every month and will be a fun and informal way to meet new people, network, and explore the beauty of the Bay Area.
For additional event photos, click here.

Youth Office Visit to Pocket Gems - June 24
ABL-SF organized an office visit for approximately 30 teens from the Chinatown YMCA's summer program to visit Pocket Gems, a San Francisco based start up whose mission is to be one of the world’s great creators of innovative interactive entertainment on mobile. Several employees talked about their roles in the company and the paths they took to get there.
Each year ABL-SF organizes an annual series of work site visits during which students have the opportunity to learn about and see first-hand how businesses operate. Through these visits students learn about careers in financial services, marketing, operations, human resources, public relations and management as well as important concepts such as customer service, business strategy and entrepreneurship. Previous site visits include Wells Fargo, PG&E, Sports Basement, the San Francisco Food Bank, the San Francisco Giants, and San Francisco City Hall.
For additional event photos, click here.
ABL-SF organized an office visit for approximately 30 teens from the Chinatown YMCA's summer program to visit Pocket Gems, a San Francisco based start up whose mission is to be one of the world’s great creators of innovative interactive entertainment on mobile. Several employees talked about their roles in the company and the paths they took to get there.
Each year ABL-SF organizes an annual series of work site visits during which students have the opportunity to learn about and see first-hand how businesses operate. Through these visits students learn about careers in financial services, marketing, operations, human resources, public relations and management as well as important concepts such as customer service, business strategy and entrepreneurship. Previous site visits include Wells Fargo, PG&E, Sports Basement, the San Francisco Food Bank, the San Francisco Giants, and San Francisco City Hall.
For additional event photos, click here.

Small Business Spotlight: Socola Chocolatier - June 8
ABL-SF (Asian Business League of San Francisco) launched our small business spotlight series on June 8th, highlighting Socola Chocolatier, co-founded by Vietnamese sisters Wendy and Susan Lieu.
Based in San Francisco, Socola Chocolatier handcrafts artisanal confections with modern flavors and a fantastic taste of fun. Named after the Vietnamese word for "chocolate," Socola prepares all its truffles with unique, cosmopolitan flavors, including burnt caramel with sea salt, guava, beer, sriracha hot sauce and more.
Guests enjoyed a chocolate and tea pairing and a portion of all items sold during the evening benefited ABL-SF.
For additional event photos, click here.
ABL-SF (Asian Business League of San Francisco) launched our small business spotlight series on June 8th, highlighting Socola Chocolatier, co-founded by Vietnamese sisters Wendy and Susan Lieu.
Based in San Francisco, Socola Chocolatier handcrafts artisanal confections with modern flavors and a fantastic taste of fun. Named after the Vietnamese word for "chocolate," Socola prepares all its truffles with unique, cosmopolitan flavors, including burnt caramel with sea salt, guava, beer, sriracha hot sauce and more.
Guests enjoyed a chocolate and tea pairing and a portion of all items sold during the evening benefited ABL-SF.
For additional event photos, click here.

APA Heritage Awards and Reception - May 2
Established in 2005, the Asian Pacific American Heritage Awards promotes public awareness of Asian Pacific American Heritage Month and to coordinate the San Francisco’s annual official celebration. Each year the celebration recognizes Asian Pacific American individuals and organizations that have made a positive impact in their community. In addition to cultural performances and live entertainment, the event brings together the Bay Area community in celebration of Asian culture and heritage.
ABL-SF tabled at the reception at City Hall. For more info: apasf.org.
Established in 2005, the Asian Pacific American Heritage Awards promotes public awareness of Asian Pacific American Heritage Month and to coordinate the San Francisco’s annual official celebration. Each year the celebration recognizes Asian Pacific American individuals and organizations that have made a positive impact in their community. In addition to cultural performances and live entertainment, the event brings together the Bay Area community in celebration of Asian culture and heritage.
ABL-SF tabled at the reception at City Hall. For more info: apasf.org.

ABL-SF and AABA Joint Hike - April 30
ABL-SF (Asian Business League of San Francisco) and AABA - Asian American Bar Association of the Greater Bay Area hosted our monthly joint hike on April 30th at Briones Regional Park.
Thanks to AABA - Asian American Bar Association of the Greater Bay Area's John B. Lough Jr. for leading and co-organizing the hike and to everyone who made it out!
ABL-SF and AABA's joint hikes are a fun and informal way to meet new people, network, and explore the beauty of the Bay Area. The next hike is scheduled for June 25, location TBA.
For more pictures from the hike, click here.
ABL-SF (Asian Business League of San Francisco) and AABA - Asian American Bar Association of the Greater Bay Area hosted our monthly joint hike on April 30th at Briones Regional Park.
Thanks to AABA - Asian American Bar Association of the Greater Bay Area's John B. Lough Jr. for leading and co-organizing the hike and to everyone who made it out!
ABL-SF and AABA's joint hikes are a fun and informal way to meet new people, network, and explore the beauty of the Bay Area. The next hike is scheduled for June 25, location TBA.
For more pictures from the hike, click here.

AAPI Heritage Month Kickoff Reception at CBS Studios - April 28
KPIX CBS San Francisco Bay Area, KBCW TV, KCBS All News Radio, 99.7[NOW!], Alice@97.3, LIVE105 in collaboration with ABL-SF (Asian Business League of San Francisco) and Oakland Asian Cultural Center kicked off Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month which is celebrated nationally every May at CBS studios located at 855 Battery St. in San Francisco on April 28, 2016.
Over 150 professionals were in attendance including Survivor contestants Tai Trang and Yau-Man Chan and the CBS on air team including Ken Bastida, Kenny Choi, Veronica de la Cruz, Elizabeth Cook, and Dennis O'Donnell.
Thanks to our in-kind donors A Vanity Affair, Kieu Hoang Winery and Socola Chocolatier. Special thanks to KPIX CBS San Francisco Bay Area for hosting this annual celebration!
Fore more photos event photos, click here.
KPIX CBS San Francisco Bay Area, KBCW TV, KCBS All News Radio, 99.7[NOW!], Alice@97.3, LIVE105 in collaboration with ABL-SF (Asian Business League of San Francisco) and Oakland Asian Cultural Center kicked off Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month which is celebrated nationally every May at CBS studios located at 855 Battery St. in San Francisco on April 28, 2016.
Over 150 professionals were in attendance including Survivor contestants Tai Trang and Yau-Man Chan and the CBS on air team including Ken Bastida, Kenny Choi, Veronica de la Cruz, Elizabeth Cook, and Dennis O'Donnell.
Thanks to our in-kind donors A Vanity Affair, Kieu Hoang Winery and Socola Chocolatier. Special thanks to KPIX CBS San Francisco Bay Area for hosting this annual celebration!
Fore more photos event photos, click here.

Career Discovery Day at the Chinatown YMCA - March 18
ABL-SF (Asian Business League of San Francisco) organized a free Career Discovery Day panel discussion for high school and college students to start thinking about various professions before they enter the work force on Friday, March 18 at the Chinatown YMCA located at 855 Sacramento St. in San Francisco.
Speakers included: Chinese Hospital nurse Yan Ling Chen, Retired Air Force Lt. Colonel Roger S. Dong, Chinese Hospital nurse Jennifer Li, San Francisco Police Department officer Moli Finau, Miss Asian America Stephanie Lin, Zynga software engineer Jay Ramirez-Sanchez, and Google hardware test engineer Calvin Wong.
Thanks to EverBank for sponsoring a pizza dinner for the 50 kids that attended. This program was also supported by Bank of the West.
The mission of ABL-SF's Youth Program is to empower youth to make informed career decisions and to encourage early planning and preparation for their careers. One of the most pressing needs for youth is to bridge the gap between the classroom and the workplace. For more info about ABL-SF, visit: ablsf.org.
For event photos, click here.
ABL-SF (Asian Business League of San Francisco) organized a free Career Discovery Day panel discussion for high school and college students to start thinking about various professions before they enter the work force on Friday, March 18 at the Chinatown YMCA located at 855 Sacramento St. in San Francisco.
Speakers included: Chinese Hospital nurse Yan Ling Chen, Retired Air Force Lt. Colonel Roger S. Dong, Chinese Hospital nurse Jennifer Li, San Francisco Police Department officer Moli Finau, Miss Asian America Stephanie Lin, Zynga software engineer Jay Ramirez-Sanchez, and Google hardware test engineer Calvin Wong.
Thanks to EverBank for sponsoring a pizza dinner for the 50 kids that attended. This program was also supported by Bank of the West.
The mission of ABL-SF's Youth Program is to empower youth to make informed career decisions and to encourage early planning and preparation for their careers. One of the most pressing needs for youth is to bridge the gap between the classroom and the workplace. For more info about ABL-SF, visit: ablsf.org.
For event photos, click here.

ABL-SF and AABA's Joint Hike - Feb. 28
Joint hike with our friends at the Asian American Bar Association of the Greater Bay Area to Sweeney Ridge in Pacifica, on Sunday, February 28.
The ridge’s 1,200-foot-high summit, covered with coastal scrub and grassland, slopes down to the bay on one side and to the Pacific on the other. Wildlife at Sweeney Ridge includes hawks, deer, and a plethora of both native and introduced spring wildflowers. The sandy coastline and adjacent wind-protected valley of Thornton State Beach are good venues for picnicking, beach walking, surf fishing, and flying remote-control gliders. Dogs are permitted on leash.
ABL-SF and AABA's joint hikes will take place the last weekend of every month and will be a fun and informal way to meet new people, network, and explore the beauty of the Bay Area.
Joint hike with our friends at the Asian American Bar Association of the Greater Bay Area to Sweeney Ridge in Pacifica, on Sunday, February 28.
The ridge’s 1,200-foot-high summit, covered with coastal scrub and grassland, slopes down to the bay on one side and to the Pacific on the other. Wildlife at Sweeney Ridge includes hawks, deer, and a plethora of both native and introduced spring wildflowers. The sandy coastline and adjacent wind-protected valley of Thornton State Beach are good venues for picnicking, beach walking, surf fishing, and flying remote-control gliders. Dogs are permitted on leash.
ABL-SF and AABA's joint hikes will take place the last weekend of every month and will be a fun and informal way to meet new people, network, and explore the beauty of the Bay Area.

Asian Business League of San Francisco Lunar New Year Party - Feb. 25
Approximately 100 professionals joined ABL-SF (Asian Business League of San Francisco) in celebrating the Year of the Monkey on Thursday, Feb. 25, 2016 at Capital One 360 Cafe located at 101 Post St. in San Francisco.
Attendees enjoyed catering by Onigilly and Salt and Honey Catering and lined up to get a free astrological reading, courtesy of Ken Hirano and palm reading courtesy of Dr. Thanu Pilllay of palmistry.org.
THANKS TO OUR LUNAR NEW YEAR PARTY SPONSORS!
EVENT HOST: Capital One 360
YEAR OF THE MONKEY SPONSOR: Bank of the West
LANTERN SPONSOR: AARP
RED ENVELOPE SPONSOR: DAE
Special thanks to our community partners for the event: Asian American Donor Program (AADP), Corporate Asian American Employee Network (CAAEN), Chinese Real Estate Association of America, Filipino American Arts Exposition (FAAE) / Pistahan Parade and Festival, Japantown Merchants Association of San Francisco Korean Center, Korean American Professional Society (KAPS), Nakayoshi NCWNP Young Professionals, Nihonmachi Street Fair, Oakland Asian Cultural Center, San Francisco Chamber of Commerce,Taiwanese American Professionals - San Francisco Chapter (TAP-SF) and Your Filipino Professionals Association.
Photos by Michael Jeong Photography can be viewed here.
Approximately 100 professionals joined ABL-SF (Asian Business League of San Francisco) in celebrating the Year of the Monkey on Thursday, Feb. 25, 2016 at Capital One 360 Cafe located at 101 Post St. in San Francisco.
Attendees enjoyed catering by Onigilly and Salt and Honey Catering and lined up to get a free astrological reading, courtesy of Ken Hirano and palm reading courtesy of Dr. Thanu Pilllay of palmistry.org.
THANKS TO OUR LUNAR NEW YEAR PARTY SPONSORS!
EVENT HOST: Capital One 360
YEAR OF THE MONKEY SPONSOR: Bank of the West
LANTERN SPONSOR: AARP
RED ENVELOPE SPONSOR: DAE
Special thanks to our community partners for the event: Asian American Donor Program (AADP), Corporate Asian American Employee Network (CAAEN), Chinese Real Estate Association of America, Filipino American Arts Exposition (FAAE) / Pistahan Parade and Festival, Japantown Merchants Association of San Francisco Korean Center, Korean American Professional Society (KAPS), Nakayoshi NCWNP Young Professionals, Nihonmachi Street Fair, Oakland Asian Cultural Center, San Francisco Chamber of Commerce,Taiwanese American Professionals - San Francisco Chapter (TAP-SF) and Your Filipino Professionals Association.
Photos by Michael Jeong Photography can be viewed here.
2015

Asian Business League of San Francisco's 35th Anniversary Gala - Nov. 6
Two hundred professionals came to celebrate the Asian Business League - San Francisco's (ABL-SF) 35th Anniversary on Friday, Nov. 6 at the InterContinental Hotel.
The event honored two organizations for their work in inspiring, connecting, and engaging the community - the Asian American Donor Program (AADP), a nonprofit organization dedicated to increasing the availability of potential marrow and stem cell donors for patients with life-threatening diseases curable by a marrow and stem cell transplant, such as leukemia and lymphoma and Asian-owned VegiWorks, Inc. which has been in business for 23 years delivering fresh fruits and produce as well as dry goods, dairy and frozen products to restaurants, hotels, and caterers in the Bay Area.
ABL-SF Alumni Leadership Awards were also given to Claire Chang, Luen Lam, and Michael Soon Lee for their exceptional efforts towards promoting and developing Asian American leaders in the community. Da Lin, KPIX 5 News reporter emceed the event.
The event was sponsored by Westlake Urban, Comerica Bank, Union Bank, Bank of the West, DAE Advertising, East Bay Municipal Utilities District, and Luen Lam and Judie Ngov.
Attendees had a wonderful time playing casino games and at the end of the night, traded in their chips for a chance to win some great prizes.
Since its founding in 1980, ABL-SF boasts a rich history of persevering dedication and support for the promotion of leadership in business within the Asian Pacific American and Islanders (APA/I) community. ABL-SF was, in fact, one of the first nonprofit organizations in California to focus exclusively on Asian trade and business. Regularly-held events such as seminars, leadership training programs and social networking functions provide members with ongoing opportunities to: develop and enhance business leadership and management skills, and establish strong relationships with other APA/I professionals. ABL-SF not only connects its members with business leaders in the community but also actively addresses key issues facing APA/I professionals and Asian-owned businesses.
Guests also enjoyed a free souvenir photograph from the event courtesy of A Vanity Affair photo booth services. To view pictures, click here.
For event photos by Michael Jeong and Ismail Moylan, click here.
Check out our 35th anniversary slide show that run during the event, to download your own copy, click here:

Warriors Asian Heritage Night - Nov. 17
The Asian Business League - San Francisco cheered on the NBA Champions - our Golden State Warriors on Tuesday, Nov. 17 at Oracle Arena. We also had a chance to sit courtside during the Warriors warm-up session!
Thanks to everyone who made it out and to our friends at Nakayoshi NCWNP Young Professionals and San Francisco Asian Professionals Meetup for joining us in our section!
The Asian Business League - San Francisco cheered on the NBA Champions - our Golden State Warriors on Tuesday, Nov. 17 at Oracle Arena. We also had a chance to sit courtside during the Warriors warm-up session!
Thanks to everyone who made it out and to our friends at Nakayoshi NCWNP Young Professionals and San Francisco Asian Professionals Meetup for joining us in our section!

ABL-SF BBQ - Oct. 25
The Asian Business League - SF (ABL-SF) hosted our 3rd Annual BBQ and Picnic on Sunday, October 25 at Rengstorff Park in Mountain View, a fun outing for ABL-SF members, friends, and family!
Beer lovers were in for a treat as Almanac Beer tastings were also available at the event.
The Asian Business League - SF (ABL-SF) hosted our 3rd Annual BBQ and Picnic on Sunday, October 25 at Rengstorff Park in Mountain View, a fun outing for ABL-SF members, friends, and family!
Beer lovers were in for a treat as Almanac Beer tastings were also available at the event.

Boosting Sales for Small Businesses Panel - Oct. 14
Have you ever thought about marketing your business services to the City of San Francisco or even large corporations? On October 14, the Asian Business League - San Francisco hosted a special panel, sponsored by Wells Fargo, on identifying non-traditional sources of revenue for minority owned business enterprises. Esteemed panelists: Lamar Heystek, Minority Business Development Agency Business Center Director, Mark Quinn, Small Business Administration District Director, Ryan Briscoe Young, Contract Compliance Officer, City and County of San Francisco and Hector Gandhi, Wells Fargo's Vice President Commercial Loan Officer shared their insight on how people can obtain contracts with the local or state government or companies who seek supplier diversity. Mike Pyon, Asian Business League Vice President moderated the event.
For more event pictures click here.
Have you ever thought about marketing your business services to the City of San Francisco or even large corporations? On October 14, the Asian Business League - San Francisco hosted a special panel, sponsored by Wells Fargo, on identifying non-traditional sources of revenue for minority owned business enterprises. Esteemed panelists: Lamar Heystek, Minority Business Development Agency Business Center Director, Mark Quinn, Small Business Administration District Director, Ryan Briscoe Young, Contract Compliance Officer, City and County of San Francisco and Hector Gandhi, Wells Fargo's Vice President Commercial Loan Officer shared their insight on how people can obtain contracts with the local or state government or companies who seek supplier diversity. Mike Pyon, Asian Business League Vice President moderated the event.
For more event pictures click here.

ABL-SF and Pine Tree Energy Council Networking Mixer - Sept. 30
The Asian Business League - SF teamed up with our friends at Pine Tree Energy Council, a non-profit with a relentless drive for the environment and better energy efficiency, to host a joint networking mixer on Wednesday, Sept. 30th at 03 Bistro and Lounge located at 524 Van Ness Ave. in San Francisco.
For additional event photos courtesy of Megan Kung, click here.
The Asian Business League - SF teamed up with our friends at Pine Tree Energy Council, a non-profit with a relentless drive for the environment and better energy efficiency, to host a joint networking mixer on Wednesday, Sept. 30th at 03 Bistro and Lounge located at 524 Van Ness Ave. in San Francisco.
For additional event photos courtesy of Megan Kung, click here.

ABL-SF and AABA Host Joint Hike to Land's End - Aug. 30
The Asian Business League - SF teamed up with our friends at the Asian American Bar Association of the Greater Bay Area for a joint hike to Land's End in San Francisco on Sunday, August 30th, exclusively for our members and those invited by our members.
ABL's hikes will take place the last weekend of every month and will be a fun and informal way to meet new people, network, and explore the beauty of the Bay Area.
For additional hike photos courtesy of Shiyi Lucia Huang and Angela Pang, click here.
The Asian Business League - SF teamed up with our friends at the Asian American Bar Association of the Greater Bay Area for a joint hike to Land's End in San Francisco on Sunday, August 30th, exclusively for our members and those invited by our members.
ABL's hikes will take place the last weekend of every month and will be a fun and informal way to meet new people, network, and explore the beauty of the Bay Area.
For additional hike photos courtesy of Shiyi Lucia Huang and Angela Pang, click here.

ABL-SF and Asia Society's Young Professionals Group Host Joint Screening of Crocodile in the Yangtze - July 29
On July 29th the Asian Business League of San Francisco and the Asia Society Northern California Young Professionals Group presented a joint screening of the documentary CROCODILE IN THE YANGTZE by Director Porter Erisman at the Ninth Street Independent Film Center in San Francisco. The event drew over 50 people.
Described by Forbes.com as a “A rare behind-the-scenes look at China’s Internet revolution,” this film follows China's first Internet entrepreneur and former English teacher, Jack Ma, as he battles US giant eBay on the way to building China's first global Internet company, Alibaba Group.
An independent memoir written, directed and produced by an American who worked in Ma's company for eight years, CROCODILE IN THE YANGTZE captures the emotional ups and downs of life in a Chinese Internet start up at a time when the Internet brought China face-to-face with the West.
For more event photos, click here.
On July 29th the Asian Business League of San Francisco and the Asia Society Northern California Young Professionals Group presented a joint screening of the documentary CROCODILE IN THE YANGTZE by Director Porter Erisman at the Ninth Street Independent Film Center in San Francisco. The event drew over 50 people.
Described by Forbes.com as a “A rare behind-the-scenes look at China’s Internet revolution,” this film follows China's first Internet entrepreneur and former English teacher, Jack Ma, as he battles US giant eBay on the way to building China's first global Internet company, Alibaba Group.
An independent memoir written, directed and produced by an American who worked in Ma's company for eight years, CROCODILE IN THE YANGTZE captures the emotional ups and downs of life in a Chinese Internet start up at a time when the Internet brought China face-to-face with the West.
For more event photos, click here.

ABL-SF and AABA's Joint Hike to Redwood Regional Park - July 26
The Asian Business League - SF teamed up with our friends at the AABA - Asian American Bar Association of the Greater Bay Area for a joint hike on Sunday, July 26 at the Redwood Regional Park in Montclair exclusively for our members and those invited by our members. The hidden redwood forest lies off Redwood Road just a few miles over the ridge from downtown Oakland. The forest's peaceful groves give little evidence of the park's bustling past – in the mid-1800s the area was the scene of extensive logging to supply building materials for the San Francisco Bay Area. The logging era has long since passed, and a stately forest of 150-foot coast redwoods (Sequoia sempervirens) has replaced those cut down.
ABL's hikes will take place the last weekend every month and will be a fun and informal way to meet new people, network, and explore the beauty of the Bay Area.
For more event photos, click here.
The Asian Business League - SF teamed up with our friends at the AABA - Asian American Bar Association of the Greater Bay Area for a joint hike on Sunday, July 26 at the Redwood Regional Park in Montclair exclusively for our members and those invited by our members. The hidden redwood forest lies off Redwood Road just a few miles over the ridge from downtown Oakland. The forest's peaceful groves give little evidence of the park's bustling past – in the mid-1800s the area was the scene of extensive logging to supply building materials for the San Francisco Bay Area. The logging era has long since passed, and a stately forest of 150-foot coast redwoods (Sequoia sempervirens) has replaced those cut down.
ABL's hikes will take place the last weekend every month and will be a fun and informal way to meet new people, network, and explore the beauty of the Bay Area.
For more event photos, click here.

Startup Boot Camp for Teens - July 23
As part of the ABL-SF (Asian Business League of San Francisco), efforts to inspire the next generation of leaders, we partnered with the Chinatown YMCA's summer youth program to host a one day Startup Boot Camp for San Francisco high school students on July 23.
Lisa Murphy, founder of Sosu Sauces, came in to share her company's kickstarter story and to provide the teens with tips on making presentations. James Liu of Pine Tree Energy talked to the teens about the basic elements of a business plan while ABL-SF President Lilian Chau discussed financing a business.
Armed with the tools they learned, teens broke up into teams to come up with a business plan to pitch to judges: Jin Park of Pine Tree Energy, Syndey Wuu of Davis Innovators, Alex Beroza of Pine Tree Energy, and MIT alum Xian Ke.
The winning pitch came from an all girl team that proposed an organic boba company - called Simply Good Boba.
For more event photos, click here.
As part of the ABL-SF (Asian Business League of San Francisco), efforts to inspire the next generation of leaders, we partnered with the Chinatown YMCA's summer youth program to host a one day Startup Boot Camp for San Francisco high school students on July 23.
Lisa Murphy, founder of Sosu Sauces, came in to share her company's kickstarter story and to provide the teens with tips on making presentations. James Liu of Pine Tree Energy talked to the teens about the basic elements of a business plan while ABL-SF President Lilian Chau discussed financing a business.
Armed with the tools they learned, teens broke up into teams to come up with a business plan to pitch to judges: Jin Park of Pine Tree Energy, Syndey Wuu of Davis Innovators, Alex Beroza of Pine Tree Energy, and MIT alum Xian Ke.
The winning pitch came from an all girl team that proposed an organic boba company - called Simply Good Boba.
For more event photos, click here.

ABL-SF and AABA's First Joint Hike - June 27
The Asian Business League - SF teamed up with AABA members for a second joint hike. This hike took place at the Picchetti Ranch Reserve in Cupertino. The group hiked the Zinfandel Trail - a 1.9-mile long, easy hike through shaded areas lush with ferns and a view of Stevens Creek Reservoir; the trail connects with Stevens Creek County Park.
Afterwards, some of the group tasted wines from the the Picchetti Winery.
The Asian Business League - SF teamed up with AABA members for a second joint hike. This hike took place at the Picchetti Ranch Reserve in Cupertino. The group hiked the Zinfandel Trail - a 1.9-mile long, easy hike through shaded areas lush with ferns and a view of Stevens Creek Reservoir; the trail connects with Stevens Creek County Park.
Afterwards, some of the group tasted wines from the the Picchetti Winery.

Take Charge of Your Personal Brand - June 25
Approximately 30 Bay Area professionals gathered at Sedgwick LLP to hear author Susan Chritton (Personal Branding for Dummies) discuss building one’s personal brand on June 25. The event was organized by the Asian American Bar Association, in conjunction with ABL-SF. Susan said that at bottom, good branding is good storytelling. Therefore, it’s important to be able to clearly tell the unique story of YOU.
Susan noted that most professionals have little problem listing their rational attributes, for example, degrees, licenses, years of experience, etc. However, many professionals have difficulty articulating their emotional attributes (answers to the question, “Why should I like you?” --i.e. “is this person kind, funny, empathetic, etc.?”) Both rational and emotional attributes are important, according to Chritton, in standing out in a crowded market.
Susan also talked at length about LinkedIn, which she views as a critical part of branding. If you don’t have one up already, try adding a professional-looking photo to your LinkedIn profile. Whether rational or irrational, people look for photos and don’t trust profiles without one, said Susan. Similarly, Susan urged her listeners to take full advantage of the 2000-character LinkedIn “Summary” section, rather than just listing their current position. Numbers of LinkedIn contacts are also important, according to Susan. Again, whether rational or irrational, Susan noted there is a bias against someone with just a few contacts. However, if you are just getting started on LinkedIn, don’t worry, Susan herself would like to connect with you: https://www.linkedin.com/in/susanchritton.
For more event photos, click here.
Approximately 30 Bay Area professionals gathered at Sedgwick LLP to hear author Susan Chritton (Personal Branding for Dummies) discuss building one’s personal brand on June 25. The event was organized by the Asian American Bar Association, in conjunction with ABL-SF. Susan said that at bottom, good branding is good storytelling. Therefore, it’s important to be able to clearly tell the unique story of YOU.
Susan noted that most professionals have little problem listing their rational attributes, for example, degrees, licenses, years of experience, etc. However, many professionals have difficulty articulating their emotional attributes (answers to the question, “Why should I like you?” --i.e. “is this person kind, funny, empathetic, etc.?”) Both rational and emotional attributes are important, according to Chritton, in standing out in a crowded market.
Susan also talked at length about LinkedIn, which she views as a critical part of branding. If you don’t have one up already, try adding a professional-looking photo to your LinkedIn profile. Whether rational or irrational, people look for photos and don’t trust profiles without one, said Susan. Similarly, Susan urged her listeners to take full advantage of the 2000-character LinkedIn “Summary” section, rather than just listing their current position. Numbers of LinkedIn contacts are also important, according to Susan. Again, whether rational or irrational, Susan noted there is a bias against someone with just a few contacts. However, if you are just getting started on LinkedIn, don’t worry, Susan herself would like to connect with you: https://www.linkedin.com/in/susanchritton.
For more event photos, click here.

Corporate Asian Leadership Program (CALP) with Union Bank - April 23 - June 18
The Asian Business League of San Francisco's (ABL-SF) inaugural Corporate Asian Leadership Program (CALP) based off our popular leadership program You are the CEO of You took place from April 23 to June 18, 2015. This bi-weekly, five-part seminar series has been uniquely developed for the men and women of APSIRE at MUFG Union Bank. Each session is carefully designed to provide an intimate learning environment for participants - to explore concepts and acquire skills necessary for professional and personal success. Each session was followed by small group breakout sessions led by Michael Lee and Mei Ling Yiu.
Buck Gee, Executive advisor to Ascend and retired Cisco Systems' Vice President and General Manager of the Data Center Business Unit, kicked off the first session and spoke passionately about the challenges of being an Asian American leader. During the second session on May 7, Eugene Lee, Entrepreneur In Residence at Artiman Ventures, eloquently discussed the differences between being a leader vs. a manager. In the third session, participants learned how to effectively communicate as a leader with Miriam Lopez, Global Diversity Advisory for Chevron on May 21. Marina Sarmiento Feehan, Founder of Positive Counsel, spoke about "Personal Branding in the Digital Age" during session 4 on June 4.
If your company is interested in having ABL-SF produce CALP for at least 15 your employees, please contact Angela Pang at angelapang@ablsf.org or (415) 691-7264 for more details.
ABL Monthly Hike Series Kicks Off at Tennessee Valley – May 30
The ABL-SF (Asian Business League of San Francisco) first monthly hike to Tennessee Valley in the Marin Headlands took place on May 30th and drew 15 people! Tennessee Valley contains a bevy of wildlife; from mighty raptors to common swallows, the birds of the valley will keep your eyes on the skies. This 2 hour morning hike was led ABL Board Member Stephen Jeong. For additional event photos, click here. ABL’s hikes will take place the last Saturday of every month and will be a fun and informal way to meet new people, network, and explore the beauty of the Bay Area. Stay tuned for details on the next hike set for June 27th. |
SF Business Leaders Share Tips to Propel Business to Next Level – April, 29
An expert panel of successful local business leaders shared their strategies for growing business sales in 2015, including tips for utilizing LinkedIn, networking, and marketing to expand. The event was held on April 29th at PwC in San Francisco and drew approximately 50 attendees. The program entitled “Propelling Your Business to the Next Level” is part of the Asian Business League-SF’s small business series for the year. “ABL’s Small Business Program’s mission is to serve as a comprehensive resource for Asian-American business owners in the Bay Area,” says Mike Pyon, ABL-SF’s Vice President. Event speakers included: Andrew Ly, President and CEO of Sugar Bowl Bakery, Ted Fang, Executive Director of AsianWeek Foundation, Co-Founder of SF Hep B Free, Rick Gutierrez, Managing Partner of InTune Search and InTune Partners, Bob Linscheid, President & CEO – San Francisco Chamber of Commerce, Brenda Kwee McNulty, Executive Director of the Association of Asian American Bankers. For more, see our blog post. |

ABL-SF Corporate Asian Leadership Program Kick Off Party – April, 16
The Asian Business League of San Francisco (ABL-SF) hosted a kickoff mixer for its inaugural Corporate Asian Leadership Program (CALP) based off our popular leadership program You are the CEO of You on April 16 at Cigar Bar and Grill! This bi-weekly, five-part seminar series has been uniquely developed for the men and women of APSIRE at MUFG Union Bank. Each session is carefully designed to provide an intimate learning environment for participants – to explore concepts and acquire skills necessary for professional and personal success. Special guest speakers will be coming in bi-weekly, followed by small group breakout sessions led by Michael Lee and Mei Ling Yiu. The first session is April 23rd from 6 to 9 p.m.
If your company is interested in having ABL-SF produce CALP for at least 15 your employees, please contact Angela Pang at angelapang@ablsf.org for more details.
The Asian Business League of San Francisco (ABL-SF) hosted a kickoff mixer for its inaugural Corporate Asian Leadership Program (CALP) based off our popular leadership program You are the CEO of You on April 16 at Cigar Bar and Grill! This bi-weekly, five-part seminar series has been uniquely developed for the men and women of APSIRE at MUFG Union Bank. Each session is carefully designed to provide an intimate learning environment for participants – to explore concepts and acquire skills necessary for professional and personal success. Special guest speakers will be coming in bi-weekly, followed by small group breakout sessions led by Michael Lee and Mei Ling Yiu. The first session is April 23rd from 6 to 9 p.m.
If your company is interested in having ABL-SF produce CALP for at least 15 your employees, please contact Angela Pang at angelapang@ablsf.org for more details.
ABL-SF Lunar New Year Party – March 3, 2015
90 professionals came to celebrate the Lunar New Year with the Asian Business League of San Francisco on Tuesday, March 3 at Drake SF located at 508 4th St. in San Francisco. Guests enjoyed complimentary fortune telling provided by Dr. Thanu Pillay and Ken Hirano and complimentary massages courtesy of David Holcomb. Special thanks to ABL-SF Lunar New Party – Year of the Goat sponsor - Comerica Bank and Red Envelope Sponsor - San Francisco – Shanghai Sister City Committee. Community partners for the event included the Corporate Asian American Employee Network (CAAEN), Filipino American Arts Exposition (FAAE) / Pistahan Parade and Festival, Hyphen magazine, KPIX CBS San Francisco Bay Area, Nakayoshi NCWNP Young Professionals, Oakland Asian Cultural Center, San Francisco Asian Professionals Meetup, andTaiwanese American Professionals – San Francisco Chapter (TAP-SF). Event photos courtesy of Michael Jeong Photography. For more info on ABL-SF, visit: www.ablsf.org. For full event photos by Michael Jeong, click here. |

Career Discovery Day - Jan. 30, 2015
The Asian Business League - SF in collaboration with the Chinatown YMCA organized a free Career Discovery Day panel for high school and college students on Jan. 30th.
The event drew approximately 80 youth from high schools including Galileo, Lincoln, Lowell, and Washington and also a few participants from San Francisco State University and City College of San Francisco.
Speakers included: San Francisco Assessor-Recorder Carmen Chu, KTVU Channel 2 News Anchor/Reporter Claudine Wong KTVU, Founder and CEO of Flow State Media Kahn Jekarl, Super Resolution Specialist at Carl Zeiss MicroImaging Bryant Chhun, North East Medical Services (NEMS) - Pediatrician Mabel Yang, and MUFG-Union Bank Director of eMarketing Juan Silvera.
Panelists stressed the importance of going to college and being persistent when pursuing their dream job.
Dinner for the guests was sponsored by Recology.
The Asian Business League - SF in collaboration with the Chinatown YMCA organized a free Career Discovery Day panel for high school and college students on Jan. 30th.
The event drew approximately 80 youth from high schools including Galileo, Lincoln, Lowell, and Washington and also a few participants from San Francisco State University and City College of San Francisco.
Speakers included: San Francisco Assessor-Recorder Carmen Chu, KTVU Channel 2 News Anchor/Reporter Claudine Wong KTVU, Founder and CEO of Flow State Media Kahn Jekarl, Super Resolution Specialist at Carl Zeiss MicroImaging Bryant Chhun, North East Medical Services (NEMS) - Pediatrician Mabel Yang, and MUFG-Union Bank Director of eMarketing Juan Silvera.
Panelists stressed the importance of going to college and being persistent when pursuing their dream job.
Dinner for the guests was sponsored by Recology.
Warriors Asian Heritage Night – Jan. 7, 2015
The Asian Business League – San Francisco cheered on the Warriors when they beat the Pacers, on Wednesday, January 7th at Oracle Arena. Thanks to the 59 members and friends who joined us for the sold out game. Attendees received a commemorative Asian Heritage Night t-shirt and the first 10,000 fans to enter the arena received a Bobblehead of Draymond Green. |
2014
ABL Holiday Party: White Christmas at Santa’s Workshop – Dec. 2, 2014
Toy drive success! Guests also brought in a new toy to be donated to either children at Gordon J. Lau Elementary School in San Francisco's Chinatown or children in the Galing Bata bilingual program at the Filipino Education Center. Asian Business League (ABL) celebrated the holidays on December 2, 2014 at Infusion Lounge located at 124 Ellis St. in San Francisco with over 120 people. Attendees met and connected with other Asian professionals over hors’dourves and enjoyed a free photo booth generously donated by A Vanity Affair. Special guests included San Francisco Assessor-Recorder Carmen Chu and Supervisor Norman Yee. Guests also brought in a new toy to be donated to either children at Gordon J. Lau Elementary School in San Francisco’s Chinatown or children in the Galing Bata bilingual program at the Filipino Education Center. |
Special thanks to our community partners: Asian American Bar Association of Greater Bay Area, AsianWeek Foundation, Center for Asian American Media, Corporate Asian American Employee Network, Korean American Professional Society, Nakayoshi Young Professionals, San Francisco Asian Professionals Meetup, and Taiwanese American Professionals-SF.
Financing Your Growing Business Panel – Sept. 30, 2014
ABL-SF and Wells Fargo presented “Financing Your Growing Business” panel discussion on Sept. 30th, 2014 at the Wells Fargo Events Center in San Francisco. The event drew a packed house. Keynote Speaker Sylvia Kwan founded Kwan Henmi Architecture/Planning, Inc. in 1980 with a commitment to the success of her clients and the realization of their design objectives. Sylvia was also a contestant on “Survivor: Fiji.” Other speakers included: Linda Wang Lee, Wells Fargo Business Banking Manager, John Seeley, Acrius Capital Managing Director, and Lending Club Client Advisor Logan Shedd. For more event photos visit: http://plus.google.com/photos/105564893633863891114/albums/6070872309717682737. |
BBQ Throwdown – August 2, 2014
ABL-SF Board challenged your organization to a BBQ Throwdown on Aug. 2 at Rengstorff Park in Mountain View. For more event photos, visit: http://plus.google.com/photos/105564893633863891114/albums/6044496990355860577. |
Youth Financial Aid Workshop – July 21, 2014
Jane Wang from Merrill Lynch gave a talk to youth at the Chinatown YMCA about saving for college on July 21. For more event photos visit: http://plus.google.com/photos/105564893633863891114/albums/6070949001874234449. |
Networking for Success: The Art of Conversation and the Key to Connecting – June 26, 2014
ABL-SF and Asian American Bar Association of the Greater Bay Area (AABA) co-presented: “Networking for Success: The Art of Conversation and The Key to Connecting” on June 26, 2014 at PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC) in San Francisco. This workshop covered the fundamentals for building rapport, from evaluating your own personal communications styles to practicing the art of conversation. Christina Dunham was the speaker for the evening. Dunham has been in advertising, marketing and sales for over two decades, developing acquisition, retention and loyalty programs for start-ups, small businesses and Fortune 500 companies. For more event photos, visit: http://plus.google.com/photos/105564893633863891114/albums/6036040246412563745. |
Bay Area Hike at Crystal Springs Reservoir – May 31, 2014
A short 2 hour bay Area hike at Crystal Springs Reservoir on May 31. A fun networking activity with ABL members and non-members alike. For more event pictures, visit: http://plus.google.com/photos/105564893633863891114/albums/6020823404104662369. |
How to Leverage Social Media to Bring in Business – May 15, 2014
We learned some valuable tips on how to manage our online presence from Marina Sarmientos Feehan of Positive Counsel and Taek Chung of Adhusky. The event took place at PwC. For more event photos, visit: http://plus.google.com/photos/105564893633863891114/albums/6014078487283568913. |
Huntington ABL-SF Mixer – April 24, 2014
A mixer with The Huntington Library, Art Collections, and Botanical Gardens took place on April 24 at PwC. For more event photos, visit: http://plus.google.com/photos/105564893633863891114/albums/6006275244712576385. |
Lunar New Year Event – Feb. 27, 2014
ABL-SF celebrated the Year of the Horse with a networking mixer at L’Olivier Restaurant in San Francisco. Over 50 people gathered at the event from various industries including banking, legal, finance, food services, and technology to learn about ABL-SF’s rich history, mission to promote Asian business leaders, and current programs. General elections results were also announced, and the Board members were introduced. Networking was lively and engaging throughout the evening. |
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Phone App Testing with Teenagers at the Chinatown YMCA
Date: February 21, 2014
ABL-SF partnered with the Chinatown YMCA to facilitate an interactive app testing session. Participants from YMCA included freshmen from Lowell High School and Wallenberg High School in San Francisco.
Date: February 21, 2014
ABL-SF partnered with the Chinatown YMCA to facilitate an interactive app testing session. Participants from YMCA included freshmen from Lowell High School and Wallenberg High School in San Francisco.
Asian Heritage Night with the Warriors
Date: January 28, 2014
ABL-SF participated in the Asian Heritage Night with the Warriors. The Warriors ended up losing to the Wizards (88-85), but it was still a fun event!
For more event photos, visit: https://plus.google.com/photos/105564893633863891114/albums/5859881897392892705?banner=pwa&sort=1
Date: January 28, 2014
ABL-SF participated in the Asian Heritage Night with the Warriors. The Warriors ended up losing to the Wizards (88-85), but it was still a fun event!
For more event photos, visit: https://plus.google.com/photos/105564893633863891114/albums/5859881897392892705?banner=pwa&sort=1
2013 Highlights
ABL-SF Annual Picnic and BBQ Throwdown
Date: Saturday, August 10th, 2013
ABL-SF’s inaugural BBQ Throwdown went to Victor’s team. Congratulations, Victor! ABL-SF community at large met over BBQ and games at the annual ABL-SF Picnic. If you are a BBQ master, enter this year’s competition to win.
See photos: https://plus.google.com/photos/105564893633863891114/albums/5953390781709554593?banner=pwa&authkey=CIK-ybPNuKfPJQ
Date: Saturday, August 10th, 2013
ABL-SF’s inaugural BBQ Throwdown went to Victor’s team. Congratulations, Victor! ABL-SF community at large met over BBQ and games at the annual ABL-SF Picnic. If you are a BBQ master, enter this year’s competition to win.
See photos: https://plus.google.com/photos/105564893633863891114/albums/5953390781709554593?banner=pwa&authkey=CIK-ybPNuKfPJQ
Wine Down Happy Hour
Date: Wednesday, September 25, 2013
Thanks to those who attended the event.
Date: Wednesday, September 25, 2013
Thanks to those who attended the event.
Speed Networking / Happy Hour Event
Date: Wednesday, January 23, 2013
Thanks to those who attended our inaugural event. Click below for photos from the event.
Date: Wednesday, January 23, 2013
Thanks to those who attended our inaugural event. Click below for photos from the event.
Sales v. Marketing Training
Date: Wednesday, February 20, 2013
Thanks to our speaker, Chip Doyle of Sandler Training, for providing us an informative training session on consultative selling. Below are photos from the event.
Date: Wednesday, February 20, 2013
Thanks to our speaker, Chip Doyle of Sandler Training, for providing us an informative training session on consultative selling. Below are photos from the event.
Wine Down Happy Hour
Date: Wednesday, March 27, 2013
Thanks to those who attended the happy hour event in Burlingame. It was great to see some new faces.
Date: Wednesday, March 27, 2013
Thanks to those who attended the happy hour event in Burlingame. It was great to see some new faces.
Spring Cooking Class
Date: Saturday, April 13, 2013
The Spring cooking class on April 13, 2013 introduced Alumni of the You Are the CEO of You to an interactive culinary experience. They cooked and ate the delicious Vietnamese meal they cooked. See photos below for details.
Date: Saturday, April 13, 2013
The Spring cooking class on April 13, 2013 introduced Alumni of the You Are the CEO of You to an interactive culinary experience. They cooked and ate the delicious Vietnamese meal they cooked. See photos below for details.
Joint Networking Program/Kickoff Reception for CEO 2013 Program
Date: Wednesday, May 22, 2013
CEO alums welcomed the incoming class of 2013. It was great to see some familiar and new faces. It was also fun playing the game of experience bingo, and trying to figure out who loves fishing, camping, and backpacking. Click here to check out the photos.
Date: Wednesday, May 22, 2013
CEO alums welcomed the incoming class of 2013. It was great to see some familiar and new faces. It was also fun playing the game of experience bingo, and trying to figure out who loves fishing, camping, and backpacking. Click here to check out the photos.
Wine Down Happy Hour
Date: Wednesday, June 26, 2013
Thanks to everyone who came to the last informal happy hour event for the CEO alumni, and brought a guest. It was wonderful to see some new and familiar faces. It was also great to see some connections made as well. Here are some photos from the event. Click here to check out the photos.
Date: Wednesday, June 26, 2013
Thanks to everyone who came to the last informal happy hour event for the CEO alumni, and brought a guest. It was wonderful to see some new and familiar faces. It was also great to see some connections made as well. Here are some photos from the event. Click here to check out the photos.