Herman Chan Golden Gate Sotheby's International Realty Greater East Bay 63.9

What were the biggest challenges and biggest successes of this past year?

Tim: This year, I think we conquered a very major challenge of successfully transitioning back to in-person events. We really had to learn to roll with the punches in terms of sudden cancelations due to Covid exposure, limiting the number of people in certain areas, making sure people were vaccinated, and prioritizing the health of our members. Despite that, we got back to putting on amazing events at both local and national levels, so kudos to the chapter leaders and staff who made it all possible. I would have to say that the biggest triumph was our Diversity and Fair Housing Summit. We really exceeded expectations there.

Speaking of which, prior to your Presidential position, you were a past National Policy Chair. How did that affect this year’s Diversity and Fair Housing Summit?

Tim: Well, I wish I could claim credit for the record-breaking success we saw in DC, but it really goes to the chapter leaders, partners, guest-speakers, and of course, our members. It was a truly memorable experience to be able to be on stage with representatives from the highest level of our government, and a testimony to AREAA’s significance as a leader for AAPI organizations. Moreover, it proved that we could put on our serious hats, advocate for crucial changes that will affect the AAPI community, and have a great time doing it. I am so excited for DFHS to continue to expand and grow as we look to make it our main Spring event and am confident in Kurt’s ability to knock it out of the park next year.

In the study we published in this year’s State of Asia America Report, we found that there were significant concerns about safety and discrimination for prospective AAPI homebuyers. How can AREAA address this?

Tim: We can continue to educate our members on ways to serve their AAPI clients, provide resources to these communities, and work with policymakers to try to solve these problems. But truthfully, we can’t fix these problems alone, and that is why our partnerships with GSEs, banks, and other nonprofits are so important to our mission. We are proud to be leaders in the diversity, equity, and inclusion space, and are tremendously grateful to all the other organizations that help us fight against hate.

Tim, you have talked a lot about the support that past National Presidents provided during your tenure. Do you see yourself following that trend?

Tim: Well, as I’ve said before, we are always around. Look at the founders; even after 20 years, they continue to be active and supportive to our organization. We jokingly say you “drink the AREAA Kool-Aid”, but it speaks to the fact that once you have realized just how rewarding it can be to be an advocate for the AAPI community, you are hooked for life. Looking to the next year, I will do all I can to make sure Kurt receives the same incredible level of support that I had during my year.