Who We Are
It's not who you are that holds you back, it's who you think you're not.
~Author Unknown
As individuals, we are always seeking new levels of personal growth. As women, we have many dimensions to confront. As Asian and Asian Pacific Islander American women, we face other sets of challenges. The Center for Asian Pacific American Women (formerly known as Asian Pacific American Women's Leadership Institute, APAWLI) is the only membership organization in the U.S. that is dedicated to the holistic development of women who come from Asian and Asian Pacific Islander backgrounds.
The Center's vision is to be the place where every Asian and Asian Pacific Islander American woman can come together to hear each other's voices, celebrate accomplishments and find the support to embark on personal and professional growth, at whatever stage in life.
The Center brings diverse communities of women together to support and nurture each other, like a path of stepping stones, worn smooth by the wisdom of those who have gone before, leading to infinite possibilities for those who travel upon it. Our great poet Puanai Burgess has taught us that we make the road by walking it.
The Center offers members a variety of development programs, conferences, seminars and networking activities that address the emerging needs of Asian and Asian Pacific Islander American women. Members will be able to meet other members and stay connected through regional advisory councils, participate in regional seminars, national conferences, and the APAWLI National Fellows Program.
Our Mission
Develop Asian Pacific women nationwide to achieve success and fulfillment in their personal and professional lives, and to lead positive change in their workplace and communities.
Our Vision
To be the organization every Asian Pacific woman in the United States looks to for personal and professional growth and development.
If you have the burning flame of inspiration within your heart, it's possible to do things that make others get excited and want to be on a bandwagon of success.
