'InspirASIAN’

What are the key skills that make you successful in your position?

1.) Strategic Communication: Bridging the gap between the public and government requires clarity and diplomacy in communication, ensuring all parties are aligned with goals.

2.) Community and Stakeholder Engagement: Stay committed to relationship building and connecting with community members and fostering partnerships, helping align initiatives with the community's needs.

3.) Project management: handling complex projects, timelines, and resources is essential to executing initiatives efficiently and effectively.

4.) Problem solving: Assessing community needs, addressing risks, and finding practice solutions, which is critical in our roles in local government.

What do you/did you love the most about your job?

What I love about my job is that I have the opportunity to make a tangible impact on the community. Being able to bring together people, resources, and ideas to create strong, more resilient communities is incredibly rewarding. I get the opportunity to work with people that care about Tacoma every day, and I get to see real change unfold and witness the positive impact I can make on people's lives. It's the blend of community building and purposeful services that makes this work really fulfilling.

What advice would you give to someone who wants to enter or to those already involved in public administration?

Commit to Lifelong Learning: Stay updated on new policies, technologies, and skills to adapt to evolving community needs.

Build Strong Relationships: Genuine connections with stakeholders are essential for creating impactful, community-focused initiatives.

Stay Grounded in Public Service Values: Prioritize transparency, accountability, and a commitment to public welfare in all actions.

Embrace Diversity and Inclusion: Create policies that respect and reflect diverse perspectives in your community.

Develop Communication Skills: Clear, effective communication builds trust and unites stakeholders on key issues.

Be Resilient and Patient: Meaningful change takes time; resilience and patience are key.

Engage with Professional Networks: Join groups like I-NAPA to connect with peers, access resources, and gain support.

What favorite place have you traveled to or what is the next place on your travel bucket list?

Japan! It was an absolutely amazing experience and I think about it almost every day. Amazing food, beautiful scenery, and rich culture.

Who is someone who’s made a big impact on your life? Why?

My parents played a significant role in my life in shaping my values and aspirations. Their influence inspired my commitment to public service and community engagement. They instilled in me the importance of giving back and fostering connections, which have guided my career in government. Their support and example motivated me to strive for positive change in the lives of others.

What’s your favorite part of being a member of I-NAPA?

Being able to connect with colleagues from around the world and hear about their challenges and ways that they have overcome them is incredibly important and inspiring. I love the community that we've been able to build with I-NAPA!