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Volume 20 | Issue 5

May 2025

2025 Asian American Heroes of Colorado

Vietnamese Remembrance and Resilience Day

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ASIAN AVENUE - PRESIDENT’S NOTE May is Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander Heritage Month—a time to uplift the rich histories, cultures, and achievements of our diverse communities. It’s also a time to recognize the resilience and strength that continue to define us. We are proud to host our 16th annual Asian American Hero of Colorado Awards Ceremony. On Sunday, May 18, we will gather at Social Fabric Hub to honor seven outstanding individuals who have made a lasting impact in their communities. Please join us to celebrating their unique contributions of heroism!

Annie Guo VanDan, President Asian Avenue magazine Connect with us! hello@asianavemag.com @asianavemag Celebrate AANHPI Heritage Month! Get tickets to the Asian American Hero of Colorado Awards ceremony on Sunday, May 18 at Social Fabric Hub at coloradoasian.org.

On April 30, we also paused to remember another kind of heroism—the courage of Vietnamese refugees and their families who resettled in the United States after the Vietnam War. With Governor Jared Polis’ proclamation of Vietnamese Remembrance and Resilience Day, we honor their journeys and the strength it took to rebuild lives in a new homeland. This issue also features the inspiring story of Austin Yang, who has shown incredible bravery in his recovery following a double lung transplant. His perseverance is a powerful reminder of the resilience that lives within so many in our community. As we celebrate this month, we also feel the heartbreak of the Lapu-Lapu Day festival tragedy in Vancouver. During times of loss and grief, community becomes our anchor. May we hold each other a little closer, offer comfort where we can, and continue to build spaces where all feel seen and supported. Wishing you a meaningful month filled with reflection, gratitude, and connection.

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May 2025 | President’s Note

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ASIAN AVENUE TEAM Publisher & Founder CHRISTINA YUTAI GUO President ANNIE GUO VANDAN Editorial Director MARY JENEVERRE SCHULTZ Graphic Designer LIJIN ZHAO Videographer JADYN NGUYEN Staff Writer FEYONE LA JESSALYN LANGEVIN

on the cover Congratulations to this year’s Asian American Hero of Colorado award recipients! We look forward to honoring them on Sunday, May 18, 2025 at Social Fabric Hub! Asian Avenue magazine (ISSN 1932-1449) reserves all copyrights to this issue. No parts of this edition can be reproduced in any manner without written permission. The views expressed in articles are the authors’ and not necessarily those of Asian Avenue magazine.

Looking to promote your business? Asian Avenue magazine offers businesses a costeffective way to reach consumers in the Denver/Boulder metro areas and beyond. For more information, call 303.937.6888 or e-mail us at hello@asianavemag.com for our media kit and ad rates. Send story ideas to hello@asianavemag.com. Asian Avenue magazine is in association with the Colorado Asian Culture and Education Network.

P.O. Box 221748 Denver, CO 80222 Tel: 303.937.6888 Email: hello@asianavemag.com Follow Us! @AsianAveMag

May 2025 | Table of Contents

IN THIS ISSUE 4 10 8

PRESIDENT’S NOTE SPECIAL: Pre-order a sweet treats baker’s box for pick up on May 16 UPCOMING EVENT: $ave Green Be Green Conference on June 5 in Denver

FEATURE: Colorado recognizes 50th anniversary of Vietnamese remembrance and resilience

SPOTLIGHT: Hmong American Austin Yang recovers and thrives after double lung transplant

19 20 23

COVER STORY: This year’s Asian American Heroes of Colorado include an artist, political advocate, lawyer, restaurateur, business and nonprofit leaders, driven by a calling to help FOOD: Cakeheads brings a taste of the Philippines to Colorado with pandesal RESTAURANT: From Hong Kong eats to custom cakes, Chopstix Fusion is so hot right now! LEGAL COLUMN: 5 ways for Colorado landlords to avoid legal trouble

ASIAN AVENUE MAGAZINE P.O. Box 221748 Denver, CO 80222 Tel: 303.937.6888 E-mail: hello@asianavemag.com www.asianavemag.com

Find us @AsianAveMag #AsianAveMag

Pre-order and pick up at Social Fabric Hub (Englewood) or Banh & Butter (Aurora) on Friday, May 16

Place an order at coloradoasian.org

2025 $ave Green Be Green Conference is back on June 5, 2025 in Denver Registration is now open for the 2025 $ave Green Be Green Conference ($GBG), a no-cost annual workshop, hosted by Denver Agency for Human Rights & Community Partnerships’ Energy Efficiency Program.

WHAT: $ave Green Be Green Conference WHEN: June 5, 2025, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. WHERE: First Universalist Church of Denver 4101 E. Hampden Avenue, Denver, CO 80222

Denver-serving nonprofits, faithbased, community organizations, businesses, and individuals are invited to the 2025 $ave Green Be Green Conference, a one-day no-cost conference to network and connect with resources and funding that will help them not only be energy-efficient but cost-efficient as well. Hosted by Denver Agency for Human Rights & Community Partnerships’ Energy Efficiency Program, this year’s conference will take place on Thursday, June 5 at First Universalist Church of Denver. “We are so excited about this year’s new Exhibit Hall at the $GBG Conference, where members from the energy efficiency sector, city agencies, and other nonprofits can connect with registered participants on additional information and resources,” said Mary

May 2025 | Upcoming Event

Herreria-Schultz, D-ONE’s Energy Efficiency Program Manager. “We are also pleased to announce that the $GBG Pitch Competition returns for the third time, where eligible organizations can tell us about their plan to become more energy efficient in a “Shark Tank” style presentation for a chance to receive one of four grants totaling $19,000.” Thanks to our invaluable partners, Xcel Energy, Councilwoman Jamie Torres – District 3, Denver Office of Climate Action, Sustainability and Resiliency (CASR), Energy Outreach Colorado, Groundwork Denver, GRID Alternatives, this annual event helps strengthen our nonprofit sector while supporting citywide efforts to reduce the negative impacts of climate change. Participating organizations and individuals can join panel discussions

on energy justice, governance, youth perspectives on a greener future, and more, as well as enjoy a complimentary light breakfast, lunch, and network at an after-hours reception hosted HRCP from 3:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. HRCP’s energy efficiency project was created in January 2004 to serve as a liaison between the City and County of Denver and its nonprofit sector. HRCP is committed to increasing the capacity and sustainability of the nonprofit sector and achieves those objectives by delivering training and workshops, targeted programming, improving internal contracting processes, and assisting nonprofits with funding and becoming smarter about the facilities they operate out of. Visit www.denvergov.org/sgbg for more details and to reserve your spot.

Vietnamese Remembrance and Resilience in Colorado

Colorado Governor Jared Polis and the State of Colorado officially proclaimed April 30th as Vietnamese Remembrance and Resilience Day during a ceremony at the Colorado State Capitol on April 15, 2025. The proclamation, authored by Refugees + Immigrants United Executive Director and Vietnamese refugee Nga Vu ̛o ̛ng-Sandoval, was presented to her in the presence of community leaders and supporters. The Proclamation recognizes the resilience and unwavering spirit

their struggles and triumphs will continue to be honored across the state. This momentous occasion not only served as a remembrance but also as a tribute to the enduring strength of the Vietnamese refugee experience and their lasting contributions to the fabric of Colorado and the nation. Notably, this recognition marks the first time that April 30th and the Vietnamese community have been acknowledged at a statewide level in Colorado.

of the Vietnamese community, ensuring that the memory of Refugees + Immigrants United (RIU) and Sắp Sửa Restaurant co-hosted a moving event on April 27th mark the 50th anniversary of the end of the Việt Nam War and honor the lives of Vietnamese refugees who fled and as well as those perished due to the conflict during their journey to safety. This day of reflection commemorates the journey of over three million displaced Vietnamese refugees who were forced to leave their homeland. The event showcased a poignant video that illuminated the perilous journeys of Vietnamese refugees, shedding light on the stories of those who survived, as well as the many who tragically lost their lives along the way. A powerful panel discussion followed, moderated by Ndeye Ndao, RIU Advisor, and featuring distinguished Vietnamese refugees: RIU Executive Director Nga Vu ̛o ̛ng-Sandoval, Buddhist monk Thầy Phổ Khai, and Thai Nguyễn, Executive Director at Kaizen Food Rescue. A deeply emotional moment of silence offered attendees the space to reflect and mourn the losses endured by the Vietnamese community. In a powerful display of remembrance and resilience, both of these events not only honored the courage and sacrifice of Vietnamese refugees but also underscored the profound impact their enduring spirit has had on shaping the diverse and vibrant fabric of our society ensuring that their stories, struggles, and triumphs will never be forgotten.

Feature | Asian Avenue Magazine

Living with Hope: Austin Yang’s Journey from Illness to Empowerment By Annie Guo VanDan At 28, Austin Yang is living a life he once only dreamed of. A first-generation Hmong American from Westminster, Colorado, Austin spent his first 25 years tethered to oxygen tanks and ventilators due to bronchiolitis obliterans, a rare lung disease he was diagnosed with as an infant. Despite his condition, Austin led as normal a life as possible—attending school, making friends, and earning a degree in Information Systems from the University of Colorado Denver. But in late 2022, his health rapidly declined. Placed on ECMO, a lifesupport system, he was fast-tracked for a double lung transplant, which he received on December 9, 2022. Recovery was intense but transformative. “I could walk and talk at the same time,” Austin recalls. “Something I could never do before.” His confidence soared. “I no longer feel like a burden,” he says. Growing up in a traditional Hmong family, Austin acknowledges the cultural taboos around organ donation but credits his parents for embracing the idea. While Western medicine saved his life, he also recalls a spiritual moment when his grandmother called his spirit back home during a difficult period —and his breathing improved. Now, Austin is thriving. He works, exercises regularly, and even hopes to return to competitive shooting. More importantly, he shares his story to inspire others. “To those facing a transplant or illness: it’s scary, but everything you’ve endured matters. Your suffering will pay off.” His message to the AANHPI and disabled communities is powerful: “You are not alone. Your story matters.” From isolation to empowerment, Austin’s journey is a testament to resilience, cultural strength, and the will to live fully.

May 2025 | Spotlight

In its 16th year, Colorado Asian Culture and Education Network presents the...

2025 Asian American Heroes of Colorado

Compiled by Feyone La Photos by Natalie Norton

Back: Howard Chou, Courtney Ozaki, Shauna Medeiros-Tuilaepa, Nina Vendhan Front: Sabrina Sameshima, Stephanie Tanny, Binisha Shrestha

Congratulations to the 2025 Asian American Heroes of Colorado! Howard Chou

• Commissioner, Denver Asian American Pacific Islander Commission • Member, Colorado Democratic National Committee

Shauna MedeirosTuilaepa

• Owner, No Ke Aloha • Board Chair, Colorado Asian Pacific United

Courtney Ozaki

• Founder and Creative Producer, Japanese Arts Network • Creative Producer, Denver Center for the Performing Arts

Sabrina Sameshima

• Children’s Program Senior Staff Attorney, Rocky Mountain Immigrant Advocacy Network

Binisha Shrestha

• Founder/CEO, Colorado Nepalese Community • Global Leaders Award 2024

Stephanie Tanny

• Founder/CEO, Kasih Initiative • Former Commissioner, Denver Asian American & Pacific Islander Commission • Former Development Director/ AAPI Organizer, Colorado Immigrant Rights Coalition

Young Hero Award: Nina Vendhan

• Board Member, Youth Roots • MBA Candidate, Wharton School

2025 Asian American Hero of Colorado Awards Ceremony Sunday, May 18, 2025 | 11am to 2pm Social Fabric Hub in Englewood Tickets: General $45 | Student $35 Table of 8 for $320 or sponsorship opportunities Get tickets at: coloradoasian.org Each year, in honor of Asian American, Native Hawaiian, Pacific Islander Heritage Month, the awards ceremony recognizes an extraordinary group of local heroes in May. Hear their inspiring stories as we recognize this year’s seven awardees over a delicious brunch. This year’s awardees were selected by: Asian Chamber of Commerce, Asian Girls Ignite, Asian Pacific American Bar Association, Asian Roundtable of Colorado, Asian Vibes in Denver, Aurora Asian/Pacific Community Partnership, Colorado Asian Culture and Education Network, Colorado Asian Pacific United, Colorado Dragon Boat, National Association of Asian American Professionals Colorado, and Sakura Foundation. Hero Awards | Asian Avenue Magazine

SABRINA SAMESHIMA

Sameshima honors recipie nts of the Immigrant Liberty Awa rds

Sabrina Sameshima is dedicated to uplifting marginalized voices and is a powerful advocate for immigrant justice, a path profoundly shaped by her personal and family history. Born and raised in Colorado, Sameshima comes from a mixed background – first-generation Korean American on her mother’s side and third-generation Japanese American on her father’s side. She was raised in a blue-collared, English speaking home, among the humming of Korean dramas, Motown music, and car engines. She remembers her diet consisting of a double carb load of Hamburger Helper with a side of rice, furikake, and kimchi. She now has a family of her own, with a wonderful partner and two children. Sameshima’s heritage is a large part of her identity and is the foundation of her work with the immigrant community. Her grandfather, a Japanese American, was forcibly relocated from California and detained in a Colorado internment camp, Amache, during World War II. Meanwhile, her mother’s family navigated immense challenges migrating from North to South Korea, before making the difficult journey across the ocean for a better life. These family narratives provided Sameshima with a profound understanding of the common roots shared with many immigrants seeking safety in the United States. She recognized that the forced detention experienced by her grandfather still exists within the current immigra-

May 2025 | Cover Story

hter with her daug Sameshima migrants’ rights im r at a rally fo

Photo Credit: Caleb Stewart

Eric Pavri with Asylu m Project and Samesh Seeker Advocacy ima train fellow leg al professionals on as ylum

tion system. Sameshima saw parallels finds it haunting to see policies resemwith present day immigrants who come bling the “A* Enemies Act” – previously to the country unaware of its language used against her family – re-enacted, and culture. Learning Spanish further leading to the shameful weaponization solidified her connection, allowing her of nationality and race to separate famto see these historical patterns, making ilies. This recognition of repeated histoit impossible to look away. ries fuels her dedication. Sameshima’s career journey led her to She believes that “frequently we hear Rocky Mountain Immigrant Advocacy the refrain we must learn from our hisNetwork (RMIAN), where she provid- tory. It is deeply saddening that we now ed “know your rights” presentations to must learn from repeated histories.” adults detained in immigration custody, Through forming human connections an experience that propelled her to law and earning her clients’ trust, Sameshischool. Now, as an attorney in the RM- ma embodies resilience and advocacy. IAN’s Children’s Program, Sameshima Her dedicated legal expertise to vulrepresents unaccompanied immigrant nerable immigrant children and families children and immigrant families seek- empowers Sameshima to act for presing humanitarian relief. TThis humani- ent-day justice – a true hero in the fight tarian work includes aid those in need for immigrant rights. of asylum, and immigration relief for survivors of certain crimes, including human trafficking. Her work is particularly vital today due to increased attacks on immigrants, disregard for due process, and inconsistent application of the rule of law. Her colleague Marisol Solarte-Erlacher says: “Sabrina’s work exemplifies heroism in its truest form: consistently advocating for others, standing up against injustice, and working diligently to transform systems that marginalize immigrant communities.” Being Japanese American offers a unique perspective, connecting Children’s Program Senior Staff Attorney Sameshima to historical patterns Rocky Mountain Immigrant Advocacy Network that seem to recycle themselves. She

HOWARD CHOU Howard Chou is an activist and community advocate who has been working on the ground, at the grassroots level, with various organizations for over three decades. Chou is a Political Strategist and Consultant working to help elect candidates. He is a proud husband and father of two amazing kids. His journey started, during the Rodney King civil unrest in 1992, where he advocated at City Hall for community unity and the need to hold government and institutions accountable. As an immigrant who arrived in the U.S. at age five from China, he represents the pursuit of the American dream, aiming to accomplish what his parents could not. Chou promotes diversity, inclusiveness, hard work, and dedication. He sees an urgent need for a stronger presence of Asian Americans in the public and political sphere. He believes the Asian community needs financial, social, and political capital to effectively drive its narrative and issues. As he puts it, “a major challenge is being overlooked and stereotyped as the model-minority,” which leads to the community being underserved in areas like language translation, educa-

Chou with his family for 2020 DNC Convention Roll Call

tion, and career building. His activism is rooted in values like equity, accountability, and the belief that healthcare is a human right. He firmly states that civil rights must be exercised for

justice, because “injustice for one community is injustice for everyone.” He fights for everyday injustices, in order to create a better future for his kids and beyond. Motivated by the lack of Asian voices in politics, especially at the Capitol or in the legislature, Chou significantly increased his grassroots involvement in Colorado in 2015, where he was first elected as the Vice Chair of Douglas County Democrats in 2017 and established the AAPI Caucus for the Colorado Democrats. He was then elected to the Colorado State Democratic Party Vice Chair from 2018-2023 and now elected as one of four statewide Democratic National Committee members.

From Left: Howard Chou, US Representative Joe Neguse, US Senator Michael Bennet, and US Representative Grace Meng

Commissioner, Denver Asian American Pacific Islander Commission Member, Colorado Democratic National Committee diverse backgrounds process their forms to become American citizens. Looking ahead, Chou is dedicated to ensuring the Asian American voice is heard and not diluted. His plans include working to elect Asians who represent their shared values and helping diverse Asian cultures break their “silence” to come together and demonstrate their strength in numbers, ensuring a future for young Asians. He is currently helping to elect a mayor for Westminster and a city council member in Aurora. Through his long-standing commitment to empowering his community, fighting injustice and building a stronger political voice, Howard Chou stands as a dedicated champion for Asian Americans.

Among his most rewarding projects is working on a successful ballot initiative in Denver to secure sustainable funding for Denver Health, a vital “social safety net health organization” that provides extensive healthcare services, primarily to patients who are people of color. He organized the AAPI community in Thornton to persuade the city to recognize Pride Month. He found deep satisfaction in years of volunteering at citizen workshops at the Asian Pacific Development Center (now Aurora Mental Health & Recovery), helping many legal residents from Kamala Harris (former U.S. Vice President) and Howard Chou

Hero Awards | Asian Avenue Magazine

BINISHA SHRESTHA

Founder and CEO, Colorado Nepalese Community Binisha Shrestha’s journey began in Patan, Nepal, where art is a way of life, deeply woven into her family’s statue-making business and their culture. She was already a passionate art advocate in Nepal before moving to America a decade ago, joining her sister in Denver for a better quality of life and education. As a first-generation immigrant, Shrestha faced immense challenges, navigating cultural and language barriers, struggling to find a job, and having limited access to community resources. Being deaf added another layer of difficulty, making it hard to know where to begin asking for help. She realized that if she, an educated person, faced such obstacles, many others must be struggling even more; this realization became the spark. With other dedicated community members, Shrestha co-founded the Colorado Nepalese Community (CNC). This grassroots nonprofit is dedicated to improving the quality of life for residents, particularly the Nepalese community, by promoting equitable access to education (art and culture), health, and

Shrestha (left) at the Tal es of Sarees event

May 2025 | Cover Story

economic opportunities. Shrestha is deeply involved in the community, serving as a commissioned member at the Aurora Immigrant and Refugee Commission (AIRC), a board secretary with El Alba Cooperative, and a member of the Aurora History Museum: Mosaic of Cultures Selection Committee. Her work in the community made her a bridge— connecting cultures, languages, and experiences. Her most rewarding experiences come from feeling a sense of belonging and connection, sharing her culture, and seeing others feel inspired or supported by her contributions. She believes real change begins at the grassroots level and is passionate about equity, representation, and storytelling. Through projects like cultural festivals, museum exhibits (like the Mosaic of Cultures Nepali exhibit), and initiatives like Tales of Sarees and Mindful Meditation for Spacious Resilience, she celebrates culture, fosters connection, uplifts voices, and creates spaces for healing and belonging. These projects empower people, create inclusion, and remind everyone that every story matters. Shrestha perseveres despite the challenges of balancing community work with raising two children,and fighting to be heard and included as a deaf immigrant woman. She sees art as her bridge, connecting her to ancestry and helping to imagine futures where all voices are heard. She advocates for recognizing deafness not as a deficit, but as

rora TV w with Au it intervie ib h ex re u Cult Mosaic of

Shrestha with her husband, children, and mother

a unique perspective deserving expression. Shrestha organizes because she believes in collective power and sees the transformation that occurs when communities gather and share stories. Her work is driven by the belief that art and culture are not luxuries, but necessities. They are how we survive, remember, and belong. Her dedication to building community, advocating for the underserved, and celebrating cultural identity exemplifies leadership and resilience. In her words, “Back home in Nepal, I was already a passionate art advocate, leading communications for top agencies and managing global client teams. I arrived here starry-eyed, carrying with me a head full of memories, a heart full of love, and the ambition to bring my creative vision into the community. My journey blends cross-cultural experience with deep-rooted storytelling—and I’m still just getting started.”

Sharing happy moments with

community members

COURTNEY OZAKI Courtney Ozaki is a third and fourth generation Japanese American, born and raised in Colorado. Her parents were born and raised in Denver after both sets of her grandparents moved to Colorado following World War II and the closure of incarceration camps in Pos ton, AZ and Crystal City, TX, where they were wrongfully imprisoned. Ozaki’s upbringing was surrounded by a resilient and compassionate community that encouraged her to contribute to cultivating belonging with broader intergenerational and interconnected communities in Colorado. Her work stands out for its dedication to fostering belonging, celebrating identity, and honoring community history. Her love for art was supported by her parents, who nurtured her imagination through experiencing the arts via theater, museums, concerts, and other activities. She began taking piano lessons at age six and learned how to play taiko (Japanese drumming) at age eight. Ozaki was surrounded by traditional festivals and programs in the Japanese community at Sakura Square and the Tri-State/Denver Buddhist Temple. After pursuing studies in music and arts management and gaining experience in New York City, she returned to Colorado.

Untold Stories of the West Performance

In 2019, she found her “ikigai” or “reason for being” and founded the

Japanese Arts Network (JA-NE), recognizing a need for more opportunities for Japanese artists to celebrate the multiplicity of how they connect to their Japanese identities. Ozaki’s impact extends nationally and internationally, bringing artists to Colorado stages through events like JAPAN FEST and planning tours for her immersive productions like ZOTTO. JA-NE also engages in cultural exchange, collaborating on art projects with Denver’s sister city, Takayama, and presenting work at national conferences.

ZOTTO crew

Notably, she collaborated with Colorado Asian Pacific United (CAPU) and The Far East Center to curate the Denver is my Home exhibit at the Denver International Airport, sharing the multi-generational history and contributions of Colorado’s communities. Currently, Ozaki is an immersive theater creator, storyteller, writer, director, and experience designer. Her day job is a Creative Producer for the Denver Center for Performing Arts’ Off-Center, which places the audience in the center of the stories, as well as in her own collaborative imagined worlds as an independent creative producer like ZOTTO: A Supernatural Japanese Folktale and most recently, Inheritance Kitchen. She also celebrates culture through

Founder and Creative Producer of Japanese Arts Network (JA-NE) her music ensemble, ‘JA-NE Cultural Mixtape,’ and projects like the Rice and Resilience: Colorado’s Asian Diaspora exhibit with History Colorado Center, highlighting the contributions of the Asian American Native Hawaiian Pacific Islander (AANHPI) community to food culture and contributions to Colorado’s economy, culture, and society. She recently received the Mayor’s Award for Excellence in Arts & Culture from City of Denver Mayor Mike Johnston. “She is a young leader who has boundless energy and a mind full of creative ideas for the community,” said Gil Asakawa, who nominated her for the award. “She has connected Denver’s AANHPI and Japanese American scene to the national arts network and to artists and creatives in Japan.” Ozaki said she looks forward to continuing the conversation and seeing how the spaces we make for our difficult moments blossom into new ideas and energy.

Ozaki with her husband Matthew and parents, Teri and Charles

Hero Awards | Asian Avenue Magazine

STEPHANIE TANNY ,

Stephanie Tanny’s journey embodies a powerful commitment to both community upliftment and environmental stewardship, a path woven from her experiences as an Indonesian immigrant to Colorado. From her early childhood in Indonesia to her current ventures, Tanny’s dedication to serving as a conduit for positive impact shines through. Tanny’s passion for immigrant rights was ignited particularly through an internship with the Organization of Chinese Americans (OCA) in Washington, DC, and her work with the National Asian Pacific American Women’s Forum (NAPAWF).

Tanny (left) formed the Colorado chapter of NAPAWF

She formed the Colorado chapter and consulted nationally on “Turning the Page,” the first report that examined the disproportionate impact of immigration laws on Asian women and girls. Witnessing the focus on the Latino community within the Colorado immigrant rights movement, Tanny actively worked to ensure greater inclusivity for AAPIs, addressing language barriers, and fostering unity within the diverse community. During her college years at CSU, she passed a bill that has now allocated over $2 million to sexual violence survivors and prevention education. Driven by this same desire to resource meaningful causes, Tanny founded Kasih Initiative in 2020.

May 2025 | Cover Story

CEO and Head Rainmaker, Kasih Initiative The name itself, an Indonesian word meaning both “to give” and “to love,” reflects the organization’s mission to support nonprofits through fundraising. Despite the complexities of growing a small business, Tanny loves the competitive nature of grant writing and finds immense reward in securing funding for deserving organizations and witnessing the growth of her staff. Tanny is grateful for her husband and business partner, Randall, her family, and all her mentors throughout the years who have supported her in her growth and desire to make the world a better place.

Tanny speaks on C-SPAN

Expanding her goals to sustainability and conservation, Tanny is realizing a long-held dream with the establishment of a resort in Bali, Indonesia. The Point Resort is the fruition of a vision she shared with her husband on their first date 10 years ago, offering breathtaking cliffside views of the ocean, sunset, and Bali. This venture combines

sustainable economic development with a deep commitment to community engagement and environmental preservation. Tanny envisions using funds from the resort to support local conservation efforts to preserve Indonesia’s natural beauty and biodiversity. Tanny also plans to expand to Sumatra to protect endangered species like the Sumatran tiger. Tanny’s dedication to serving AAPI communities stems from discovering Asian American history in college. This fostered a sense of pride and belong-

Adventures with husband Randall and her family

ing while fueling her commitment to ensuring AAPI voices are heard. Tanny often enters spaces as one of the only Asian Americans and takes the opportunity to advocate for the specific needs and challenges faced by AAPI individuals. Looking ahead, Tanny is enthusiastic about the continued growth of Kasih Initiative and the positive impact of her family’s resort in Bali. Her pride in her Indonesian heritage and commitment to the well-being of both people and the environment underscore her inspiring journey as a true Colorado Asian Hero.

The Point Resort- Lembongan, Bali

SHAUNA

MEDEIROS-TUILAEPA many community spaces, she actively works to bridge the gap between Asian American and Pacific Islander communities under the AAPI umbrella, fostering relationships that recognize both shared identity Owner, No Ke Aloha Board Chair, Colorado Asian Pacific United and individual differences. Furthermore, she works to challenge Shauna Medeiros-Tuilaepa is a Native stereotypes about Pacific IslandHawaiian, with deep roots in Colorado. ers, showcasing that they are more than She has become an instrumental figure just football players, musicians and their in the Asian American, Native Hawaiian, food. She seeks to showcase the diverand Pacific Islander (AANHPI) commu- sity of the creative, entrepreneurial, and nity through her dedicated community artistic talents within her community. work and advocacy. Her persistent efforts in advocacy, hisMedeiros-Tuilaepa’s community in- torical preservation, and community volvement began with over 20 years of empowerment underscore her vital role participation in Polynesian dance and within the AANHPI landscape. cultural performances. She started her Her colleague Joanne Liu said: “When career in hospitality working in her food the 2023 Hawaiian wildfires devastated truck, No Ke Aloha,which ran for seven the island of Maui, Shauna, motivated years before moving into a storefront by deep family roots, stepped up as a three years ago. key leader in mobilizing the NHPI comThrough her restaurant, she has cre- munity and beyond. She organized diated a platform to support and uplift rect donations to grassroots organizathe Pacific Islander community. Utilizing tions leading relief efforts, ensuring aid food as a common thread that resonates reached those most in need.” across Micronesian, Melanesian, and Medeiros-Tuilaepa was invited to Polynesian cultures, she helps people serve in Denver’s Asian American Pacific connect in a nostalgic way to their heri- Islander Commission (DAAPIC) due to tage when far from home. the recognized importance and underAs one of the few Pacific Islanders in representation of the Pacific Islander

voice. She was then invited to serve as a commissioner for six years, holding Chair or Vice Chair roles for five of those years. Leveraging DAAPIC’s unique position as an arm of the city government, she successfully pushed through legislation that benefited community needs, advocated for bills, and held the city government accountable. Her work also included participating in census efforts to increase community awareness about resources. Medeiros-Tuilaepa is a co-founder and the current board chair of Colorado Asian Pacific United (CAPU). CAPU is unique in its focus on identifying and sharing the forgotten or omitted stories and histories under the AAPI umbrella, such as the history of Denver’s Chinatown. CAPU aims to create a sense of belonging and inclusion for various ethnic groups by providing space for them to share their stories and culture. Medeiros-Tuilaepa has been instrumental in shaping the organization’s mission and ensuring its long-term sustainability. “Shauna often finds herself as one of the only Native Hawaiians in leadership roles within the AANHPI community. This platform empowers her to speak out, and carve out spaces for NHPI voices to be heard,” said Liu.

Medeiros-Tuilaepa (middl e) with her family

ural inatown m brates Ch CAPU cele

No Ke Aloha receives a business award from City of Aurora Mayor Mik e Coffman

Hero Awards | Asian Avenue Magazine

Vendhan meets Prime Minister Kishida at the 2023 G7 Summit as part of the youth delegation

Vendhan presents at the Barnes Foundation about her nonprofit work related to the Monument Lab

Young Hero Award

NINA VENDHAN Nina Vendhan, whose family emigrated from India, exemplifies dedication to both global engagement and community impact. Growing up, her parents instilled strong values and encouraged connections to people and places. Professionally, Vendhan works at the intersection of technology and venture capital. She is deeply involved in community work, serving on the board of YouthRoots and as a visiting board member for Monument Lab. She has also supported philanthropic efforts through the Women’s Foundation of Colorado. A key initiative she began is Equitable Education Access. Through this nonprofit, she helps distribute books that spotlight the stories of diverse women in STEM, challenging stereotypes and inspiring young people by showing that representation matters deeply. She visits schools to discuss emerging topics like artificial intelligence and cloud computing. Vendhan has also made an impact on a global stage. As the Head Youth Delegate for the U.S. at the 2023 G7 Summit in Japan, she engaged with global leaders on urgent issues such as Artificial Intelligence, climate resilience, and economic cooperation. Presenting the Youth Communiqué

May 2025 | Cover Story

to Prime Minister Fumio Kishida highlighted the impact of youth voices. She brought these insights back to Colorado, applying them to organizations like YouthRoots to help young people lead solutions in their communities. A particularly meaningful moment for Vendhan was meeting Governor Hidehiko Yuzaki and hearing from war survivors in Hiroshima, learning powerful lessons in resilience and the value of learning from history. For young people, Vendhan offers valuable advice: “You don’t need to be an expert to make an impact.” She encourages taking small steps, whether volunteering at a local nonprofit or joining a school club, as small steps can lead to big discoveries. Passion isn’t always found in a straight line; it’s about being curious, trying new things, failing sometimes, and learning all the time. She encourages young people not to be afraid to blend interests, as some of the most meaningful work happens at the intersections of ideas. Vendhan’s involvement is driven by learning from history and approaching leadership with empathy and curiosity. Her diverse experiences, from advocating for STEM representation to participating in global sum-

Board Member, Youth Roots MBA Candidate, Wharton School mits, demonstrates a commitment to positive change, reflecting her background and values. “Nina has dedicated her leadership and advocacy to uplifting Asian Americans, immigrants, and communities of color through civic engagement, public history, and youth empowerment,” said her colleague Lanie Graettinger. Her contributions both at work and in the community led to her being named to the 2023 40 Under 40 List by the Denver Business Journal. She was also awarded the 2021 Emerging Leader of the Year by the Colorado Technology Association for spurring innovation and highlighting diversity in the Colorado tech scene and the Colorado Women’s Chamber of Commerce 2022 Top 25 Most Powerful Women (the youngest inductee in ten-year history).

Cakeheads Brings a Taste of the Philippines to Colorado with Pandesal By Mary Jeneverre Schultz

Cakeheads, a beloved Colorado bakery, has carved out a unique niche in the state’s culinary scene by becoming the first retail bakery to offer pandesal, a traditional Filipino bread roll. This soft, slightly sweet, and incredibly versatile bread has long been a staple in Filipino households, and Cakeheads is now bringing this taste of home to the Centennial community and beyond. “Pandesal is a passion project that developed organically based on a product I wished existed in Colorado,” said Cherrie Isroff, owner of Cakeheads. “I have the platform to make it happen, and the ability to connect my roots even closer to the company I have created.” Pandesal, derived from the Spanish “pan de sal” meaning “salt bread,” is a far cry from its literal translation. While it contains a hint of saltiness, its defining characteristics are its subtle sweetness, airy texture, and fine breadcrumb coating. It’s a bread that Filipinos enjoy at any time of day: for breakfast with coffee, as a snack, or even as a side dish for dinner. Cakeheads, known for its delectable custom cakes and other baked

goods, is owned by professionally trained chefs Cherrie and Bradley Isroff. Cherrie, who was born and raised in Manila, Philippines, infuses her love for her native flavors and baked goods into the bakery’s offerings. This passion is evident in Cakeheads’ pandesal, which has quickly become a customer favorite. The introduction of pandesal to Cakeheads’ menu is a testament to the growing popularity of Filipino

cuisine in the United States and the desire for authentic flavors. For Filipino Americans in Colorado, Cakeheads offers a taste of nostalgia and a connection to their cultural heritage. For those unfamiliar with pandesal, the bakery provides an opportunity to discover delicious and unique bread. Cakeheads’ pandesal is made

fresh, and its appeal lies in its simplicity and versatility. The bread is typically enjoyed warm, either plain or with fillings. In the Philippines, it’s commonly dipped in coffee or used to make simple breakfast sandwiches with fillings like cheese, eggs, or meat. Cakeheads also offers ube cheese pandesal, a variation that incorporates the vibrant purple yame, ube --- a popular ingredient in Filipino desserts. “I’ve met so many new people in our community, mostly grateful that they can now have Pandesal and other classic Filipino specialties whenever they want. It brings me pure joy to be able to share my culture this way,” said Isroff. By offering pandesal, Cakeheads is not only expanding its product line but also contributing to the diversification of Colorado’s food scene. It’s a small bakery making a big impact, one pandesal at a time. As more Coloradans discover this delightful break, Cakeheads is sure to solidify its place as a culinary genre in the state. Visit cakeheadsbakery.com online to place an order or go to their bakery at 7530 S. University Blvd., Centennial, CO 80122.

Food | Asian Avenue Magazine

Chopstix fusion

Hong Kong Flavors and Sweet Surprises When husband-and-wife duo Long Zhu and Wendy Tong opened Chopstix Fusion in May 2024, they weren’t just serving food — they were sharing stories. Tucked in Denver's southeast corner, this Hong Kongese gem is quickly becoming a must-visit destination for those craving bold flavors, comforting noodles, and decadent desserts. Long and Wendy’s culinary journey began on the East Coast, where they met working at the same restaurant in New York.

Long mastered the art of Chinese cooking in busy kitchens, while Wendy, always the creative force, found her sweet spot during the pandemic — quite literally. While the world slowed down, Wendy began baking intricate cakes for friends and family. Word spread fast, and soon her cakes were gracing weddings, birthdays, and special events across the city. At Chopstix Fusion, their talents unite. Long runs the savory side, crafting Hong Kongese staples with skill and soul. The Beef Chow Fun, a stir-fried flat rice noodle dish loaded with tender

beef, crisp bean sprouts, and rich soy-based flavors, has quickly become the restaurant’s signature — and a customer obsession. Wendy continues to lead the dessert and custom cake offerings, which range from light, airy sponge cakes to elaborate layered confections that reflect both Asian and Western influences. Her desserts add a unique and elegant dimension to the restaurant’s menu, often catching newcomers by surprise. Adding another layer of flavor to the mix is their in-house

Photos and Article by Annie Guo VanDan

May 2025 | Restaurant Peek

Szechuan chef, who brings fiery heat to dishes like Mapo Tofu and Spicy Chicken with Chili Oil. The trio’s combined talents give the menu range and depth, allowing Chopstix Fusion to live up to its name — a true fusion of tastes, styles, and regions. But what really sets this restaurant apart is its Typhoon Harbor Dungeness Crab. The crabs are flown in live and must be pre-ordered at least 24 hours in advance — a small price to pay for an unforgettable dish. Drenched in a golden crust of fried garlic, chili, and scallions, the crab is a showstopper, and a nod to the fishing harbor flavors of Hong Kong. After making their debut in Mile High Asian Food Week (MHAFW) this year, Chopstix Fusion

caught the attention of foodies from across the metro area. The event helped them reach new audiences as they were featured on 9News and at the MHAFW media preview. Diners consistently rave about the authenticity, the fusion of flavors, and the welcoming family vibe. Long, Wendy, and their team are creating more than just meals — they're crafting an experience rooted in heritage, innovation, and heartfelt hospitality. For Denverites craving a taste of Hong Kong with a sweet twist, Chopstix Fusion delivers in every bite. Westword recognized Chopstix Fusion as Top 100 Restaurants in 2024 and also the Best Custom Cake Shop Offering Hong Kong Eats, truly one of its kind in the area!

Chopstix Fusion is located at 2020 S Parker Rd Unit I, Denver, CO 80231. Call ahead to reserve the Typhoon Harbor Dungeness Crab (24-hour notice required). Follow them on Instagram @wendy_cakecreations to see their custom cakes, desserts, and Hong Kong dishes.

Chinese Lucky Money Bag Is it cake? Yes, it is!

Chopstix Fusion | Asian Avenue Magazine

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