Executive Profile
Passion to Make A Difference & To Promote Better Understanding
Lani Lee Wong
Chairwoman
National Association of Chinese Americans (NACA)
By Priscilla Jacquline Hioe Posted October 1, 2008
Sporting stylish red glasses, and a passion for politics, Lani Lee Wong is a household name in the Asian community. Her prestigious work with the National Association of Chinese-Americans (NACA) and continued dedication with the Atlanta community proves that anybody can make a difference.
In the late 1970s, Wong moved to Atlanta with her husband and family. Her work began as a volunteer, participating in community service. Wong’s dedicated participation with NACA proves her work has not gone unnoticed.
NACA became officially formalized in 1979, starting with only a few members, including Wong. NACA’s mission to improve Chinese/American relations and encourage more Chinese visitors was bold. At the time, China was still considered a rogue country and biases were formed by the American public. There were underlying misconceptions and a “Cold War” type feeling with China during this time, explained Wong. Despite unfair criticisms and negative media coverage on China, NACA pushed on, working to create a mutual understanding culturally, politically, and economically.
Almost thirty years later, NACA has not only built a stronger relationship with China but also paved the way for future business affiliations among Chinese and American partners. NACA has also helped student organizations such as Georgia Tech and Emory to promote China’s scholastics. And after disastrous earthquakes in China, NACA donated over $25,000 to help build schools.
In November, NACA will host a banquet celebrating 30 years of US-China relations. Guests include the Chinese ambassador to U.S. and other prominent business figures in hopes of promoting more business with China in the future. Proceeds from the banquet will also be donated to the Sichuan earthquake relief fund.
NACA has come a long way, with the help of devoted volunteers such as Wong. All the work Wong has done over the years has been completely voluntary and truly sets an example for young Asian Americans to follow. Wong explains that the predominant Asian culture is not big on politics and public service, which is the reason Wong believes so strongly in promoting community service to Asian Americans.
With America as a new home for many, people must embrace every opportunity but also give back, explains Wong. “We must encourage more Asian Americans in the political process to vote and appoint qualified Asians into office,” insists Wong. Without qualified Asian candidates in the political scene, it is impossible to have our voices heard and our needs fulfilled by the government.
Public service also teaches important skills, such as communication and leadership, two qualities needed to succeed. “Community service is great because you see more. You see that the world is still good; it helps keep optimism alive by watching others work hard to achieve something for the greater good,” Wong explains.
Wong’s biggest dream for the community is to see more successful Asian Americans working together to benefit the community regardless of religion, politics, or ethnicity. With inspiration from former President Kennedy and the work of Mother Theresa, Wong admits her drive is to change the world. “I want to do something and make a difference,” says Wong enthusiastically. Wong’s admiration for Kennedy’s lively spirit and Mother Theresa’s unconditional love to give to the poor, motivates her to continue working and serving the community today.
Lani’s List of Favorites:
Favorite book/author: “Right Is Wrong” By Arianna Huffington
Favorite place in Georgia: St Simon Island
Favorite place to visit: Paris, France
Favorite food: Chinese
Favorite hobby: Gardening and cooking
Favorite restaurant: Pano’s & Paul
Favorite movie: Ratatouille
Favorite charity: Atlanta Women Foundation / Sheltering Arm
Favorite website: entertainmentinsider.com / nytimes.com