Leading with Passion and Purpose: A Journey Towards a Sustainable World

During my time as a LeadNext Fellow through the Asia Foundation in 2023, I was granted the opportunity to formulate my Leadership Manifesto, a summary of my drive to be a leader in the sustainability space:

Like waves lapping on the shore, my leadership is calm yet persistent. I create the most impact in my community when my art, business, and sustainability blend together. I am a sustainable creator currently honing her data analysis skills as a Research & Insights Analyst, but my mission is to spread the importance of environmental justice through creativity and innovation. In the past, my innovative and multicultural mindset has served me well as a serial ecopreneur in the 3D printing and hair care spaces. In the future, I look forward to using my passion for cross-cultural collaboration to tackle global climate issues and support my hometown’s economic and societal growth in Buffalo, NY. Whether it’s on the dance floor, in the office, or on social media, as citizens of planet Earth, we have a duty to care for the world and all our neighbors. Despite my wide-reaching influence, my leadership matters most to others who look like me. To them, I say: live outside of your comfort zone, and get comfortable being uncomfortable because it’s in this zone where you experience the most growth and create the most impact.  And no matter your goals, remember you can only be as successful as your curiosity.

2023 LeadNext Cohort
2023 LeadNext Cohort during Leadership Summit in San Francisco, CA

A Blossoming Identity: Unveiling the Symbolism in My Logo

Welcome to my website! I’m thrilled to have you here for my first official post! I’d like to share the intricate story and symbolism behind the logo I’ve chosen to represent this platform.

At the heart of my logo are orchids; each petal and curve pays homage to my Chinese name, “金(jīn) 兰(lǎn) 睿(ruì).” When translated into English, this name unfolds with a profound significance. The initial character, “金 (jīn),” embodies the essence of gold, symbolizing the inherent value and potential for growth that I aspire to. The second character, “兰 (lǎn),” conjures images of orchids renowned for their grace and beauty. It is a tribute to the elegance I strive to bring into everything I do. Finally, the third character, “睿(ruì),” epitomizes wisdom, a trait I continually seek to cultivate.

My Chinese teacher graciously provided my name during my very first Mandarin language class in 2009. This enduring connection with my name, spanning over a decade, continually inspires me to pursue excellence in my endeavors, find and appreciate life’s profound beauty, and seek wisdom from the rich tapestry of cultures that shape our world. Learn more about my experiences in China here. Thank you for being part of this journey!

css.php
Skip to toolbar