AANHPI Women Who Inspire Throughout History to our Community
Women’s History Month is a time to honor the resilience, power, and contributions of women who have shaped our world. While many narratives focus on mainstream figures, it’s equally important to uplift the stories of AANHPI (Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander) women.
These trailblazers, both past and present, have fought for representation, equity, and change, inspiring generations to come. At Asian Girls Ignite, we recognize that our community includes not just cisgender women, but also non-binary folks, femmes, and others whose identities and experiences are deeply connected to our mission. This month, we celebrate and uplift all those who have shaped and continue to shape the fight for equity, representation, and empowerment.
We believe that Women’s History Month and feminist spaces should be inclusive of everyone in the ongoing fight for equality, justice, and empowerment. Just as we honor the contributions of all AANHPI women, we also uplift the diverse gender identities within our community who continue to break barriers and lead the way for future generations.
At AGI, we are committed to creating an inclusive space where all youth, regardless of gender identity, can feel seen, heard, and empowered to lead with strength and authenticity.
Women’s History Month is a powerful reminder that AANHPI girls and gender-expansive youth belong in every chapter of history. Too often, their voices and experiences have been overlooked—but by uplifting the stories of AANHPI women, we affirm their identities, honor their contributions, and inspire a sense of pride and belonging.
Representation matters. Seeing role models who have broken barriers and sparked change reminds our youth that they, too, can shape the future. By sharing these stories, we encourage AANHPI youth to embrace their power, pursue their passions, and advocate for themselves and their communities—because their voices deserve to be heard, today and always.
Countless AANHPI women have shaped history and continue to make a difference in our communities today. From past trailblazers who broke barriers to local changemakers creating impact right here at home, their stories remind us of the power of leadership, resilience, and care. We’re excited to share a few of these inspiring voices with you!"
Flourishing Futures: AANHPI Voices Throughout History 🔮
Japanese-American
The first woman of color elected to the U.S. Congress, is a name that should be in every history book. Patsy Mink was born in Paia, Hawaii, on December 6, 1927. A champion of gender and racial equality, Patsy Mink co-authored Title IX, which transformed education for women and girls. Her pioneering efforts remind us of the power of representation and the importance of education—values we hold dear at Asian Girls Ignite. Just as Patsy Mink fought for greater opportunities for women and girls, AGI is dedicated to providing AANHPI youth with the tools, confidence, and community to shape their own futures.
Chinese-American
Born in Providence, Rhode Island, on June 27, 1915, Grace Lee Boggs spent 70 years as an activist in civil rights and labor movements which challenged systemic injustices. Grace Lee Boggs believed that true change begins within our own neighborhoods, fueled by everyday people taking action. Her lifelong commitment to grassroots activism reminds us that transformation isn’t just top-down—it’s built through relationships, collective care, and a shared vision for justice. At AGI, we carry this belief forward by empowering young AANHPI voices, creating spaces where they can lead with confidence, and equipping them with the tools to shape the future of their communities.
Filipino-born American transgender model and advocate, Geena Rocero, has been a true trailblazer, breaking barriers in both the fashion world and the LGBTQ+ community. By sharing her story and founding Gender Proud Productions, Geena has created spaces where transgender individuals, especially people of color, can feel seen and celebrated. Her courage to live her truth has inspired many to embrace their authentic selves, no matter the challenges. At Asian Girls Ignite, we are deeply inspired by Geena’s work and the way she champions visibility, inclusion, and self-love. Her journey reminds us of the power of representation, which is at the heart of our mission. Just like Geena, we want our youth to feel proud of who they are and know that their voices, stories, and identities matter.
Local Changemakers: AANHPI Women in Colorado 🌟
Joie is a passionate organizer and advocate whose work is rooted in community and collective care. As the child of refugees, she understands the power of resilience and has spent over 15 years uplifting minority communities in Colorado. Joie has been a storyteller within our Brave Spaces, empowering students through civic engagement and the intersection of art and activism. She founded CORE, a DEI consulting firm that also serves as a hub for community organizing. Through all that she does, she continues to create spaces where people feel seen, valued, and empowered to spark change and now serves as Executive Director at Colorado Asian Pacific United (CAPU).
Read about the collaborative project that AGI students and CAPU collaborated on for Denver’s Chinatown last year!
As a local chef and restaurateur, Chef Mary pours heart and soul into every dish she creates, blending her Vietnamese heritage with fresh, vibrant flavors that bring people together. Chef Mary has been a previous storyteller of ours at the “Women Who Roll” sushi making workshop, sharing her story of her experience as a woman in a male-dominated field. As the owner of Olive & Finch and a longtime force in Denver’s food scene, she’s not just serving meals—she’s building community, one plate at a time. With a deep passion for mentorship and food education, Mary uses her platform to uplift others, ensuring that the joy of good food is something everyone can share. Her work is a beautiful reminder that food isn’t just nourishment—it’s a love language, a connection, and a way to celebrate culture.
Annie was part of our ElevAsian Fundraiser in 2022 and 2023, supporting in every way! As the Executive Director of the Colorado Asian Culture and Education Network (CACEN), she uplifts and advocates for AANHPI voices. Her work goes back to 2006, where she co-founded Asian Avenue magazine to share the stories of Denver’s Asian community. Most recently, she launched the Social Fabric Hub, a co-working and community space in Englewood. She’s also part of the team behind Mile High Asian Food Week, now gearing up for its third year of celebrating AANHPI cuisine. And above all, she’s a proud mother to her two daughters and baby boy. Annie’s dedication to community, storytelling, and advocacy is woven into everything she does.
(Pictured on right, next to our co-founder, Joanne Liu)
🪻🌷The Blooming Collective of AGI 🌺🪷
At Asian Girls Ignite, we are surrounded by incredible leaders every day—within our students, families, Lotus Collective, speakers, and of course, our dedicated team. Women’s History Month isn’t just about honoring well-known figures; it’s also about celebrating the people in our own community who make an impact in every step of their lives.
Each person in our AGI universe brings something powerful—their contributions are limitless, shaping our collective story and inspiring future generations. This month, we want to recognize them—the everyday change makers who make our community brighter, stronger, and more connected.
Check out our co-founder and COO, Mehgan Yen, who was recently featured in a powerful 9News article as part of their “Colorado’s Leading Ladies” series! 💛
And if you’d like to learn more about the incredible team behind AGI, click here!
Continuing the Legacy ✨
The stories of these remarkable women remind us that representation matters. Whether through activism, food, legislation, or local initiatives, AANHPI women continue to push boundaries and redefine what leadership looks like. Their journeys encourage us to embrace our power, speak up for our communities, and pave the way for future generations.
At Asian Girls Ignite, we create spaces where AANHPI girls and gender-expansive youth can explore their identities, build confidence, and find community. This Women’s History Month, let’s celebrate the legacy of AANHPI women—past, present, and future.
Join us in uplifting these voices, and consider supporting our mission to create spaces where AANHPI youth can see themselves as the changemakers they are meant to be. We are so grateful to be in community with each of you. Let’s continue celebrating the power of our people—this month and always. 💜
