28th Annual Dinner Raises $203,673 to Empower AAPI Youth Across the DMV
Photography by Peter Chuong Photography and Trevor K. Chan Photography
On Saturday, May 9, more than 350 supporters, community leaders, partners, alumni, volunteers, mentors, and friends gathered at the Grand Hyatt Washington for Asian American LEAD’s (AALEAD) 28th Annual Dinner, Our Stories, Our Power.
The evening celebrated the resilience, leadership, and stories of Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) youth while raising critical funds to sustain AALEAD’s free, year-round programming across the DMV.
Guests heard from keynote speaker Timothy Chi, entrepreneur, board director, and co-founder of WeddingWire, who reflected on the courage of his Taiwanese immigrant parents and encouraged attendees to invest in the next generation by creating spaces where youth feel supported, empowered, and seen. AALEAD youth speaker Marc also shared his story, highlighting the importance of identity, belonging, and community.
Attendees enjoyed performances by Stepping Stones, a Korean traditional drumming group, and Bucketz from Creative Dance Center, a youth dance group, and celebrated this year’s AALEADer Award honorees: Sue Graham, Phil Tajitsu Nash, and Emi Ireland for their lasting contributions to AALEAD and the broader community.
We extend our sincere thanks to Board Member George Men for sharing his personal story at this year's Annual Dinner. His authenticity and willingness to be vulnerable created a meaningful and memorable moment that deeply resonated with our community.
Together, the Annual Dinner and post-event fundraising efforts raised $203,673 to support AALEAD’s after-school, summer, and mentoring programs.
Thank you to every sponsor, donor, volunteer, partner, performer, and supporter who made this milestone possible.
“AALEAD was the spark I didn’t know I needed — it was the spark of inspiration that would ignite a greater appreciation for the world of food around me. The spark of community I once desired to have during my years in elementary school, and the spark to become a leader and advocate for issues that continue to be incredibly important to me.”
— Annual Dinner Youth Speaker
Annual Dinner Video
AALEAD’s 28th Annual Dinner video showcases the impact of our youth programs through powerful stories of leadership, resilience, and community. Directed, filmed, and edited by volunteer Cameron Nguyen and produced by Liv Roy, AALEAD’s Development Manager, the video brings AALEAD’s mission to life through authentic storytelling.
