Thank you for joining us! California, the world’s fourth-largest economy, is fueled by the innovation and resilience of the Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) community, which generates over $200 billion in economic impact.

The California Commission on Asian and Pacific Islander American Affairs (CAPIAA), through its AAPI Economic Policy Summit, brings together state leaders to examine the transformative power of investing in California’s AAPI communities. Under the theme “California Grown, Globally Known,” the summit showcases the vital role AAPIs play in driving innovation, strengthening local economies, and shaping policies that amplify their contributions statewide.

CA State Treasurer

Fiona Ma, California State Treasurer, is the first woman of color and CPA to hold the office, overseeing state investments and financing while championing small businesses, renewable energy, and financial literacy.

CA State Assemblymember

Assemblymember Jessica Caloza, Assistant Majority Whip representing the 52nd District, is a lifelong public servant advancing infrastructure, equity, and immigrant rights at local, state, and federal levels.

CEO of  K2 Space

Karan Kunjur, CEO and co-founder of K2 Space, is pioneering advanced satellite systems to strengthen U.S. capabilities and global space exploration, building on prior success as an AI entrepreneur and BCG strategist.

Senior Counselor to the Governor

Amy Tong, Senior Counselor to Governor Newsom and former Secretary of Government Operations, has over 30 years in state government leading modernization, technology, and equity-driven public services.

President & CEO of mwConnect

Margaret Wong is founder and President of mwConnect, a Sacramento-based smart lighting and IoT company, nationally recognized for innovation and global leadership in sustainable technologies.

Senior Director of the Aspen Institute

Zaki Barzinji, Senior Director at Aspen Digital and former Obama White House liaison to minority faith communities, advances technology, equity, and justice through policy and civic engagement.

CEO of Los Angeles County Economic Development

Stephen Cheung is President & CEO of the Los Angeles County Economic Development Corporation and World Trade Center LA, driving equitable growth, global investment, and clean technology initiatives.

CAPIAA Commissioner

Jason Tam, CAPIAA Commissioner and San Francisco real estate professional, is a community leader engaged in civic service, small business advocacy, and nonprofit initiatives.

CEO of San Diego Regional Chamber of Commerce

Chris Cate, President & CEO of the San Diego Regional Chamber of Commerce and former San Diego City Councilmember, has led initiatives in small business reform, housing policy, and infrastructure development.

CAPIAA Commissioner

Tahra Goraya, CAPIAA Commissioner and President & CEO of Monterey Bay Economic Partnership, brings extensive nonprofit, policy, and government leadership advancing equity and community development.

Commissioner of CAPIAA

Taunuu Ve’e, CAPIAA Commissioner and public health advocate, co-founded the Bay Area Pacific Islander Taskforce and advances equity through regional, state, and national partnerships.

President & CEO of Asian Business Association Foundation

Jason Paguio, Chair of CAPIAA and President & CEO of the Asian Business Association San Diego and ABA California Foundation, leads efforts in economic mobility, civic engagement, and AANHPI representation.

Executive Director of CAPIAA

Khydeeja Alam, Executive Director of CAPIAA, has over 18 years in public policy and advocacy, securing major state budget investments and driving systemic change for equity.

Vice Chair of CAPIAA

Dr. Kirin Macapugay, Vice Chair of CAPIAA and professor at San Diego City College, is a social work scholar and organizer advancing higher education equity, Indigenous advocacy, and grassroots empowerment.

Executive Director of the South Asian Network

Shakeel Syed, Executive Director of South Asian Network, is a longtime civil rights leader and interfaith organizer, advocating for immigrants, low-wage workers, and underserved communities.

CA State Assembly Member

Assemblymember Dr. Darshana Patel, elected in 2024 to represent the 76th District, is a scientist, educator, and CAPIAA Commissioner, dedicated to equity, governance, and inclusion.

Senior Vice President of Communications and Strategy at Visit California

Ryan Becker, Senior Vice President at Visit California, leads global communications and strategy to elevate California’s brand as a premier destination.

Associate Deputy Director for Industry Engagement and Development at the California Governor’s Office of Business and Economic Development (GO-Biz)

Maria Onorato, Associate Deputy Director at GO-Biz, leads industry engagement and global investment strategies, driving business growth and job creation across California.

Undersecretary of the California Government Operations Agency

Christine Harada, Undersecretary of California’s Government Operations Agency, has over 25 years in sustainability and infrastructure, previously serving as Federal Chief Sustainability Officer under the Obama Administration.

CEO of San Francisco Community Health Center

Lance Toma, CEO of the San Francisco Community Health Center and Secretary of CAPIAA, has dedicated over two decades to advancing health equity for marginalized communities, leading SFCHC’s transition to a Federally Qualified Health Center to expand critical services for low-income and Medi-Cal eligible populations statewide.

CA State Assemblymember

Assemblymember Mike Fong represents California’s 49th District and currently serves as Chair of both the Assembly Higher Education Committee and the Asian American & Pacific Islander Legislative Caucus. Since his election in 2022, he has authored over two dozen laws and secured $35 million for local projects, with priorities focused on education, language access, and public safety.

President CSU San Marcos

Dr. Ellen Neufeldt is the President of California State University San Marcos, where she has led record enrollment growth, raised $130 million, and launched the university’s first strategic plan in 15 years. She is recognized for advancing innovation, diversity, and regional impact through new programs and community partnerships.

Public Policy Program Manager, Meta

Darren Touch is a Schwarzman Scholar and Public Policy Manager at Meta, bringing a global perspective shaped by experience across government, academia, and international relations. As Founder and CEO of the Canada China Forum, he leads efforts to cultivate globally minded leaders advancing Canada’s engagement with the Indo-Pacific region.