My First ASCEND Convention 2023

My First ASCEND Convention! For the last four days (Sunday, July 16 -Wed, July 19th) I had the privilege and honor to represent @AccentureUS at the 2023 Ascend National Convention in Austin, Texas.

The largest global network advancing Pan-Asian professionals in the workplace, Ascend builds community and ignites change by developing, elevating, and empowering the AAPI leaders of tomorrow. Here are my key takeaways:

1.      Building on the theme from last years convention I BELONG, the theme for 2023 was I ASCEND! I was impressed with the 2000+ strong gathering of Asian Americans in one place, and the mayor of Austin proclaimed July 17th to be “ASCEND Day”! REPRESENTATION is good, PROGRESSION needs work!

2.      Grateful to @Accenture for nominating me to be part of the first cohort of Aspiring Executive Academy – a yearlong program that started with three days of intensive learning  on “how to be a CEO/CXO” from CEO’s of Pan-Asian descent covering relevant topics such as: National and Global issues impacting Corporate America, Crisis Management, Elevating Women in the Workplace, Corporate Culture, Authentic and Servant Leadership, Financial and Legal Acumen, ESG, and Gen AI. It was most fulfilling to have direct access to CEOs and Academic leaders in a small cohort of twenty to hear about their “lived experiences”.

3.      Accenture had four speakers who were all so relevant and left their mark on how Accenture ASCENDS! Thank you for your service and contributions in these key areas.

i.                    #AscendTogether Mental Health Symposium: Tackling Stigma & Supporting Employee Mental Health – David Doan and Johnny Cheng

ii.                  Understanding the Implications of Technology (GenAI) - Teresa Tung

iii.                Navigating Early Career Challenges - Arun Chacko

4.      Accenture was recognized for the impact that our Asian American ERGs are making across the organization. Mia Rahn accepted the award on behalf of our 45+ attendees. A validation of the work of many who tirelessly work to promote professional development, celebrate the various cultures of Asia, and create a sense of belonging. Keep up the splendid work!

5.      FUN, FUN and more FUN…

a.      Thanks to our Austin OMD Tamara, my dear friend, and APA ally for hosting a reception and a panel at our Accenture offices.

b.      Expanded my personal network of fellow professionals (both in and out of Accenture), clients and community leaders.

c.      The Convention concluded a “gratitude dinner” with the entire house dancing to Bollywood tunes and performances by UT Austin’s Mohini dance troupe.

6.      Thank you, Sara Abiusi, Mia Rahn, Erik Wu, Will Yue, Michael Cheek, and our various ERG leaders for a wonderful year…looking forward to more progress in the year ahead. Ihita Kabir – who has more rabbits than any magician in their hats for making is a perfect event.

I personally experienced what “I BELONG” feels like, and like I said to our Accenture attendees… now think about how each of you model this year’s theme:  I Ascend, so we can ascend together.

#AscendTogether #Accenture #LetThereBeChange