Commerce Bank’s Post

We recently applied for an opportunity for Asian Heritage Month and didn't win. While it always sucks to put effort into something and not be successful, it's hard to know what you can learn from the effort at first. It can take reflection, maturity and a "keep on, keeping on" attitude. More than anything, an opportunity to pause and regroup. So after I throw all my figurative toys in the toy room in annoyance, I usually take a moment and see what /if there's anything to learn. Sometimes that process doesn't yield much. Suck can just suck, if you know that I mean. In this case, it allowed me to really reflect on a smart question. And one we hadn't pondered deeply before. Oh, the power of a single question! So as Asian Heritage Month approaches, give this a scan and see how you'd answer the question "What does Asian Heritage Month mean to you?"

The One Picture Group are in the business of giving voice to the customer, the consumer, the audience – it is not simply a tick box exercise but recognition that understanding that someone’s lived experience, enriches your own and helps guide brands and businesses to more informed choices and strategies. Today we reflect on The International Day of the World's Indigenous Peoples.   In Aotearoa, only last year did we have the honour of celebrating the first Matariki public holiday, this was an incredible day for our country to acknowledge the importance of Māori indigenous culture. We acknowledge there is still work to be done on a global scale for those with indigenous backgrounds and culture, making this day incredibly important to reflect on where we have come from, and where we will go. It is about recognition, appreciation, feeling the spirit, and ultimately about moving towards true partnership.   This day is more about celebrating the rich and diverse cultures the world has to offer, it poses an opportunity to embrace respect and mutual active participation in the commercial world too. The application of a purely western lens when gaining business insight is not only damaging for culture and communities, but it confines our thinking, giving a narrow and clouded view of what can be achieved. Looking through the lenses of intersectional lived experiences can enrich understandings of the world around us, our consumers, our environments, and our communities. It is more than asking an opinion, it is the opportunity of active participation across cultures, creating partnerships of respect, active listening, and action. Tuning into these voices can help us understand how to do better, it opens doors of opportunities to drive purposeful market research and meaningful strategies, allowing us to see the bigger picture.

This May, we celebrate Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month, recognizing the incredible contributions of AAPI individuals to the fabric of our nation. The AAPI community encompasses a rich tapestry of cultures, languages, and traditions, representing one of the fastest-growing and most diverse populations in the United States. The history of AAPI in the USA is deeply intertwined with the story of American progress. From the early immigrants who arrived seeking new opportunities to the generations who have since enriched our communities, AAPI individuals have played a vital role in shaping our society and economy. As we reflect on the achievements of AAPI individuals, we also acknowledge the challenges they have faced and continue to overcome. The diversity of America is one of our greatest strengths, and it is through embracing our differences that we become stronger and more united as a nation. In the realm of investing, real estate stands out as a field that is open to everyone, regardless of background or heritage. Many of our forefathers fought for the freedoms we enjoy today, including the ability to invest in real estate and secure our financial futures. As we honor AAPI Heritage Month, let us celebrate the diversity that makes America great and reaffirm our commitment to building a more inclusive and prosperous future for all. Happy AAPI Heritage Month! #AAPIHeritageMonth #WealthMindset #RealEstateInvesting #Diversification #FinancialIntelligence #ThePharmaInvestor

🌏 Cherishing Asian Heritage Month 🌏 This Asian Heritage Month, I reflect on the invaluable lessons my family, business partners, and clients from across Asia have taught me: -Work Ethics: Always be responsive to clients within 24 hours. -Integrity: Never lie; trust is hard to build but easy to lose. -Knowledge: Use knowledge as a tool to help people. -Perspective-taking: Understand the needs of others by thinking from their perspective. I've learned these principles from individuals like Tony Hoong, CPA, Joanna Zheng, Adam Cai, Jessica Jin, and many others who have enriched my life with their wisdom. Let's celebrate our rich cultural heritage and the values that unite us. #AsianHeritageMonth #CulturalValues #BusinessEthics #PerspectiveTaking

🌟 Celebrating Native American Heritage Month with Unity and Respect 🌟 As we embrace the spirit of diversity and inclusion, November marks a special occasion for us to recognize and celebrate Native American Heritage Month. This is a time to honor the rich traditions, contributions, and resilience of Native American communities across the country. 🌐 **Embracing Diversity:** At YPO Pacific West, we believe that diversity is our strength, and understanding different cultures is crucial for fostering a more inclusive community. Native American Heritage Month provides us with an opportunity to deepen our appreciation for the unique histories, languages, and customs that shape the rich tapestry of Native American cultures. 🤝 **Building Bridges:** Let's use this month as a catalyst for building bridges between communities. By fostering understanding and open dialogue, we can strengthen the connections that make us a united and supportive YPO family. Let's amplify the voices of Native American leaders, entrepreneurs, and innovators who have made, and continue to make, significant contributions to our shared society. 🌱 **Educating Ourselves:** As we celebrate, let's also take the time to educate ourselves about the challenges and triumphs faced by Native American communities. By learning more about their histories, contemporary issues, and cultural heritage, we can contribute to a more informed and empathetic society. 🌈 **A Call to Action:** Let's make this month more than just a celebration – let it be a call to action. How can we, as individuals and as a collective, contribute to the well-being and empowerment of Native American communities? Whether it's supporting Native-owned businesses, participating in cultural events, or engaging in meaningful conversations, let's actively contribute to positive change. 💙 **Gratitude and Respect:** To our Native American friends, colleagues, and partners, we extend our heartfelt gratitude for the immeasurable contributions you bring to our communities. Your resilience, wisdom, and rich cultural heritage enrich us all, and we are committed to fostering an environment of respect, understanding, and unity. Let's celebrate Native American Heritage Month with open hearts, open minds, and a commitment to building a more inclusive world together. #NativeAmericanHeritageMonth #Inclusion #DiversityandUnity #YPOCommunity #CulturalAppreciation 🌐🤝🌱🌈💙

As we celebrate Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage Month, I'm reminded of the unique journeys and experiences that shape our identities. Growing up in a household with high expectations, I learned the value of hard work and determination from my “tiger mum culture." However, I also discovered the importance of staying true to myself and rebelling against societal norms. Recently, someone labeled me as an "underachiever" for daring to express that I rebelled against the expectations set by my upbringing. But being AAPI means more than conforming to stereotypes or living up to others' expectations—it's about embracing our individuality and celebrating our diverse experiences. In the workplace, diversity of thought and experience is crucial for driving innovation and success. By embracing our unique backgrounds and perspectives, we can create a more inclusive environment where everyone feels valued and empowered to contribute their best. So, this AAPI Heritage Month, let's celebrate our heritage by embracing our individuality and encouraging others to do the same. Together, let's create spaces where everyone's voices are heard and respected. #AAPIHeritageMonth #EmbraceIndividuality #CelebrateDiversity 🌺 #RebelWithPurpose🚀 #DEI

"As a Bengali American, I'm endlessly grateful for the beautiful fusion of values and traditions that define my identity." Read on to learn more about Tasmima Hossain, a Consultant on our Data & Analytics team, and the next spotlight in our Asian American & Pacific Islander Heritage Month series. What is your favorite AAPI fact? Tas: The "Asian/Pacific American" designation encompasses over 50 ethnic or language groups, including native Hawaiians and other Pacific Islanders. I think it’s important to recognize that AAPI is not a monolith but rather a collection of unique cultures and subcultures. We should understand and celebrate the richness and complexity of this community. How has your heritage shaped who you are today?   Tas: My heritage is a deeply integral part of who I am; it has both shaped my identity and influenced my understanding of the world. As a Bengali American, I'm endlessly grateful for the beautiful fusion of values and traditions that define my identity. In Bengali culture, community is everything. That deep sense of belonging and togetherness has been ingrained within me, leading me to care for those around me and appreciate our multicultural society. Why is it important to have diverse representation in the corporate world? Tas: Diverse representation is essential, not only in the corporate world but everywhere else too. When people from different backgrounds are represented, it reflects the reality of our world and promotes inclusivity. Moreover, seeing individuals who share their backgrounds in various fields can inspire younger generations and make them feel supported, encouraging them to pursue their aspirations with confidence. #AAPIHeritageMonth #ExpertsWithImpact #TeamFTI

May is Asian American Pacific Islander Heritage Month, a time to recognize and celebrate the diverse cultures, histories, and contributions of Asian American and Pacific Islander communities in the United States. AAPI culture has enriched the fabric of American society and continues to shape our nation's identity. Did you know? According to Nielson, the collective purchasing power of Asian Americans is over $1 trillion, far exceeding the increase in purchasing power of all other racial and ethnic groups over the same period. For comparison, the total U.S. buying power grew 119% during the same period. Additionally, there are 3 million AAPI-owned businesses and 643,000 Asian employer firms in the United States. AAPI employer-owned businesses represent nearly 13 percent of all employer businesses, contribute more $1 trillion in receipts and more than 5.2 million jobs to the U.S. economy. During this month and beyond, let's take time to appreciate the achievements of AAPI individuals and communities, continue to educate ourselves about the culture, and seek out opportunities to support organizations that empower and educate the AAPI communities. Happy AAPI Month!

May is Asian American Pacific Islander Heritage Month, a time to recognize and celebrate the diverse cultures, histories, and contributions of Asian American and Pacific Islander communities in the United States. AAPI culture has enriched the fabric of American society and continues to shape our nation's identity. Did you know? According to Nielson, the collective purchasing power of Asian Americans is over $1 trillion, far exceeding the increase in purchasing power of all other racial and ethnic groups over the same period. For comparison, the total U.S. buying power grew 119% during the same period. Additionally, there are 3 million AAPI-owned businesses and 643,000 Asian employer firms in the United States. AAPI employer-owned businesses represent nearly 13 percent of all employer businesses, contribute more $1 trillion in receipts and more than 5.2 million jobs to the U.S. economy. During this month and beyond, let's take time to appreciate the achievements of AAPI individuals and communities, continue to educate ourselves about the culture, and seek out opportunities to support organizations that empower and educate the AAPI communities. Happy AAPI Month!

#SCP is proud to participate in Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month through the month of May. Here are 3 suggestions to celebrate the culture, traditions, and history of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders in the U.S. 1. Instead of just eating at an Asian restaurant, talk to the owners. Learn their stories, how they went about establishing their business, the obstacles they've faced, and local issues they care about. 2. Expand your knowledge. Flip through a popular magazine and look at how they portray Asian Pacific Americans. Are the portrayals negative? Positive? What kinds of stereotypes are depicted? What kind of message do you think this sends to other readers? 3. Spread the word! Tell a non-Asian Pacific American that May is recognized as Asian Pacific American month! This is perhaps the simplest, yet most effective way to raise awareness. Tell him or her what it means to you, invite them to a local event, or share a historical fact with them. #aapihistorymonth #aapiheritagemonth #AAPI #DEIA #strategicconsultingpartners