How did you first come to know about BCNC and what made you decide to join Bamboo Circle?

I found out about BCNC through a newsletter at work that highlighted upcoming volunteer opportunities in early 2025. I joined a Bamboo Circle meeting and found myself supporting the Open Mic preparations. I was looking for more opportunities to get involved locally in Boston, so I’m glad I came across Bamboo Circle.

What are some of your involvements with Bamboo Circle so far? Any memorable moments/events?

My involvement has been focused on the Open Mic over the last two years. I’ve also enjoyed attending events with other members, such as going out for dinner after a meeting or going to a Red Sox game.

What are you aiming to achieve during your term as Bamboo Circle Co-Chair?

I want to highlight different parts of the Boston AAPI community—our creatives, small businesses, different histories, and connections. So often, there is more to being Asian American than what we are personally familiar with, and it would be amazing if we can continue to learn from the diversity within our community.

How does your experience being Asian American shape your intention to volunteer with BCNC?

I’m a Chinese American from California but also spent over a decade living and working in China. Volunteering with BCNC gives me an opportunity to tap into a space and learn because my lived experience ended up being rather different from the typical Asian American experience in the U.S.

Briefly describe your field of work, hobbies, and volunteer experiences.

I work in geopolitical strategy and consulting and can be a nerd about world news and international affairs at times. Outside of work, people can find me cooking, being a cat mom, traveling, or reading tarot/oracle cards around Greater Boston at events.

A lot of my volunteering isn’t formal—it’s more about showing up for my community, friend groups, and those organizing community events. It’s fun to be part of an effort to make something happen.

Something you would like to tell a prospective new member.

If you’re curious, show up. You never know if you’ll find something that you like. And sometimes, sharing an idea makes it become possible.

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Introduce yourself.

I was born in China, grew up in Connecticut, and have lived in the Boston area since 2016 after relocating for college. Currently, I’m a Graphic Designer at an architecture firm and the Assistant Graphic Designer at a theater company. In my spare time, I enjoy visiting art museums; learning about art and design history, attending plays and musicals; collecting mid-century modern furniture; and bothering my cat Ophelia.

What made you decide to join the Bamboo Circle?

As a transracial adoptee—meaning someone adopted by a family of a different race—I really wanted to connect with others from my biological culture. Growing up, I volunteered in my community a lot so I knew BCNC would introduce me to others with similar values. For a while, I was just subscribed to the newsletters but never participated in any events because I was anxious others wouldn’t accept me. After I finally attended a meeting, I found it was the exact opposite; I immediately made friends with everyone! 

What is your favorite event or memory with Bamboo Circle so far?

This past Me we attended a Red Sox game for AAPI Heritage Month. I’m not into sports but it was so much fun; I got to talk to Bamboo Circle members in a fun, different setting. Plus, all the money on the tickets we sold went to the BCNC!

What is your vision for BCNC’s Bamboo Circle?

I would love to see the Bamboo Circle host/lead more events, whether that’s fundraising or networking opportunities. I want these experiences to help strengthen members’ skill sets, while they make friends in the process! Being a part of the Bamboo Circle has definitely made me more outgoing, and I would love it if our group helped members shine in their own unique ways

What would you tell someone interested in Bamboo Circle?

My only regret is waiting so long to attend a Bamboo Circle meeting! We’re very welcoming and like-minded, in the sense we want to support the Chinatown and immigrant communities in any way we can. So if you’re unsure, stop by for at least one meeting to see what we’re about!

Bamboo Circle represents a network of young professionals committed to supporting BCNC and strengthening the Asian and new immigrant community of Greater Boston. Bamboo Circle hosts volunteer opportunities and fundraising events along with regular meetings to encourage philanthropy and community engagement. All funds raised by the Bamboo Circle directly benefit BCNC programs. Learn more and get involved.