Discover the power of unity and redefine your journey at the Breaking Barriers Summit on Friday, May 2, 2025. This year's event combines an immersive in-person and virtual experience, offering a unique opportunity to address the specific challenges faced by Asian Americans: bias, imposter syndrome, and the delicate balance of multiple cultures.

The Details

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This summit is more than an event; it's a movement. Be part of a transformative day where you'll learn from those in the community, whether breaking into the industry, overcoming challenges, or forging a unique path. Join us for real talk, authentic connections, and genuine empowerment. Your registration unlocks exclusive access to a full day of enriching experiences, including breakfast, lunch, professional portrait photography, and insights from incredible industry leaders.

Engage in dynamic community sessions covering branding, mental health, and crafting a meaningful life brief. Plus, take advantage of our dedicated career corner for personalized resume and portfolio reviews. Join us in breaking barriers, sharing experiences, and building a community that propels us forward. This isn't just an event—it's a commitment to shaping a more inclusive and empowered future. Your presence is more than attendance; it's an active role in redefining our narrative. We can't wait to see you at the summit! ➡️ Reimbursement Letter Template

2024 Breaking Barriers Recap

We Love Our Sponsors

Great News - AIA has 501(c)3 status, another huge step in our vision to create positive and lasting change for AANHPI professionals at every level. Learn more

title sponsor

gold sponsor

silver sponsor

bronze sponsor

Our Incredible Speakers

Keynote: Ziad Ahmed

Head of Next Gen at UTA and Founder of ZCON

Michele Ching

VP of Revenue and Transformation at Sightly

Helen Lin

Chief Digital Officer at Publicis Groupe

Rachel Maeng

Founder, CEO of GEN Agency, GEN NIL & Rutgers University Senator

David Kim

Executive Creative Director at Postmates

Glenn Oyoung

Director, Marketing Division & Chief Marketing Officer at Covered California

Asha Shivaji

CEO & Co-Founder SeeMe Index

Frank Lee

Global Head of Industry, Independent Agencies at Snap

Christina Lu

Senior VP Strategy at Carat

Laura Lee

Founder and CEO at LL Consulting

Alex Kim

Executive Account Director at Condé Nast

Jennifer Kong

Mattel Procurement and ED Asians in Advertising

Senna Bayasgalan

CMO at b1BANK

Michael Chuthakieo

Chief Revenue Officer at 88 Rising

Michelle Sugihara

Executive Director & CEO at CAPE

Lisa Bull

Partner & CMO at YOBO Spirits

Suzie Bao

VP Group Account Director at IW Group

Bernice Chao

CCO at TDW+Co and Founder Asians in Advertising

Join us for a morning of networking over coffee and breakfast provided by Snap.
Start your day connecting with fellow attendees in a lively and interactive setting.
Opening:
Bernice Chao,Founder of Asians in Advertising and Chief Creative Officer at *Aster
Title Sponsor Remarks:
Frank Lee, Global Head of Industry, Independent Agencies at Snap
Keynote:
Ziad Ahmed, Head of Next Gen at UTA and Founder of ZCON
Explore what it means to lead with integrity while staying true to your core values. This panel delves into the power of authenticity, building trust, and inspiring teams through genuine leadership.
Speakers:
Helen Lin, Chief Digital Officer at Publicis Groupe
Mike Chuthakieo, Chief Revenue Officer at 88 Rising
Glenn Oyoung, Director Marketing Division and Chief Marketing Officer at Covered California
Moderator:
Senna Bayasgalan, Chief Marketing Officer at b1BANK

Sponsored by: Magnite
Food generously provided by SNAP
Join casual, free-form conversations centered around a variety of topics. This is a great opportunity to share ideas, connect over shared interests, and network in a relaxed, welcoming setting.
Learn how to foster meaningful connections and effectively navigate workplace dynamics. This panel provides insights on networking, collaboration, and excelling in challenging environments.
Speakers:
Michelle Sugihara, Executive Director and CEO at CAPE
David Kim, Executive Creative Director at Postmates
Rachel Maeng, Founder at GEN Agency
Moderator:
Lisa Bull, Partner and Chief Marketing Officer at Yobo Spirit House
Sponsored by: Giant Spoon
Gain actionable strategies to recognize, embrace, and communicate your true value in the workplace. This panel will empower you to confidently advocate for yourself, master negotiation, and unlock your full potential.
Speakers:
Frank Lee, Global Head of Industry, Independent Agencies at Snap
Michele Ching, VP of Revenue Operation and Transformation at Sightly
Asha Shivaji, Chief Executive Officer & Co-Founder at SeeMe Index
Moderator:
Laura Lee, Founder and Chief Executive Officer at LL Consulting
Sponsored by: Kargo
We’re proud to launch the inaugural Asians in Advertising Annual Awards, honoring eight exceptional individuals who exemplify excellence, innovation, and impact in the advertising industry. These awards celebrate trailblazers, changemakers, and unsung heroes driving creativity, representation, and equity for the Asian community.
Presenters:
Suzie Bao, VP Group Account Director at IW Group
Alex Kim, Executive Account Director at Condé Nast
Enjoy Yobo Spirits and Semiplume refreshments, plus light snacks by Snap to mix, mingle, and unwind.