Creator. companion. traveler.

I moved to the states for college when I was 18, and found half of my identity in a foreign country. Growing up in Taiwan, there were always certain creative blocks that I couldn’t have reached if I had decided to stay. While I fell in love with classic literature and journalism in college, I decided to leave them as what it is: passions. I work mainly in CX/CS and writing/editing in a remote environment, which allows me to travel anywhere in the world while working. That’s one of the most unsung blessings I can ask for at this point in my life; to be financially stable, to create content, and venture out in the world.

How does being Taiwanese/Taiwanese American and/or community ally play a role in your life?

I grew up in Taiwan, so it was all I knew aside from summer trips to the Americas or Europe. Being Taiwanese is probably one of the proudest things I can be just because I am. It’s a small country, so everyone is connected somehow. In the grand scheme of things, it’s allowed me to represent my country and allow strangers to understand a bit more of what and who we are. I’ve met incredible and memorable people throughout my life, and even more extraordinary experiences. It’s a gift that keeps on giving.

If you could teach future generations 1 thing about being Taiwanese/Taiwanese American or Taiwan, what would it be?

To preserve and be more appreciative of our culture. A lot of things get overlooked and we’re known for more than boba. Taiwan has such a rich history and a blooming creative/arts scene. Any culture is more than one-dimensional, and there’s so much to see and experience. We are fiercely loyal and nationalistic, but I advise to still keep an open mindset.

Honestly, to be more involved. We venture out seeking better opportunities either as parents or children, but at the end of the day, remember your roots and really try to understand them.

What does the future of Taiwanese America look like to you?

The Taiwanese American identity is getting stronger each day, and as an outsider, it makes me proud because it took generations for people to recognize the community. From being recognized at the Olympics to Netflix featuring our gourmet street food, the identity morphed from a political irony to a more coherent, established entity. I see more kids learning about being Taiwanese, being in touch with Taiwan, and somehow emerging the best of both worlds into the next couple of decades.

The future of Taiwanese America is grateful. Grateful that their parents so fiercely guarded the Taiwanese culture and passed it down; grateful that they can be fluent in two languages; grateful that they recognize a part of themselves that have come so far in the global stage.

Favorite memory of Taiwan/Taiwanese America?

I’m privileged enough to come back once, if not numerous times, in a year. As I get older, I actively try to make memories with my family, friends, and even strangers. It really is the little, fleeting moments that count. My favorite memories can be as simple as hearing the MRT flying by, eating my mom’s home-cooked meals, smiling at the ever-so hardworking Taiwanese grandpas selling fruit, or being with decade-old friends in a decade-old restaurant.

Favorite Taiwanese food?

I have the biggest sweet-tooth, so traditional tofu/almond pudding! 豆花加芋圓跟地瓜圓