Ian Chen

Content Creator, Community Engagement Leader

Biography

Ian Chen (he/him) is an energetic DEI professional and passionate advocate for Asian-American representation and understanding. Hailing from Seattle and born to Taiwanese and Korean immigrants, Ian's journey is a fusion of cultural exploration and leadership in diversity.


Ian brings creativity to his DEI work, blending his talents in visual arts with a deep commitment to community engagement. He crafts engaging content and modules on Asian-American history and culture, igniting vital conversations and insights into community-specific issues.

Talk Description

Imagine leaving behind your familiar life in North America to embark on a transformative journey in Taiwan, all in pursuit of full Taiwanese citizenship. Inspired by the resilience of icons like James Baldwin against the backdrop of global challenges such as the pandemic, Stop Asian Hate and the ongoing Black Lives Matter movement, Ian chose a path less travelled.


Ian's decision to uproot his family and immerse himself in Taiwan goes beyond mere relocation—it's a quest for identity, connection, and enlightenment. Transitioning from the Western world to Taiwan, Ian delves into learning Mandarin, rediscovering familial bonds, forging new experiences, and unravelling the complexities of being both Asian and American.


This journey isn't just about personal growth— it's a narrative intertwined with historical and contemporary issues. Ian's story sheds light on concepts like the Bamboo Ceiling, the Perpetual Foreigner stereotype, the Model Minority myth, the dynamics of collective cultures, and the challenges of masking one's true self in different societal contexts.


Join us as Ian shares his captivating story, offering profound insights into his experiences and the broader socio-cultural landscape that shapes our perceptions and realities.