Successful Asian businesses honored in Los Angeles

Dennis Huang, of the 2015 Asian Business Association staff, welcoming ABA banquet attendees. PHOTOs BY CHRISTIAN ESTEBAN

LOS ANGELES — Hundreds attended a banquet honoring Asian American businesses and entrepreneurial leaders who have contributed to the wellbeing of the Asian American community October 6.

The Asian Business Association (ABA), with an active membership of more than 600, held its 39^th Annual Awards Banquet at the Globe Theatre in Universal Studios in Hollywood.

The annual affair, presented by Toyota, was hosted by South Korean-born American actor James Kyson and former fashion model Mei Melancon. Musician Paul Dateh and dance troupe Maker Empire provided the lively entertainment.

For this year’s event, ABA honored five awardees: CJ America (Business Enterprise of the Year), Wong Fu Productions (Media Company of the Year), Los Angeles City Councilman 4^th District David Ryu (ABA Chairperson Award), U.S. Bank (Corporation of the Year) and Richard Chacon (Advocate of the Year).

Some awardees shared the secret of success in their respective business and career fields.

For U.S. Bank Senior Vice President Darrell Brown, marketing strategies that “unite and collaborate” with other organizations are the best ways to create small businesses in the Asian American community.

U.S. Bank Senior Vice President Darrell Brown speaking for his company, one of he honorees at the ABA awards.

“My family always encourages me [to work harder] with culture and atmosphere to believe that each of us can make a difference in the community,” Brown said.

Richard Chacon of Union Bank stated that success must include a balance between work and home. The Advocate of the Year awardee also explained that supporting the Asian Business Association will lead to better economic opportunities, but healthy competition is also important, with “good products, good services, competitive pricing and little risk.”

Los City Councilman 4^th District David Ryu said there is “no magic formula” for success, but hard work and achievements are the keys to reaching one’s goals.

“My parents have handed down to me their good values and work ethic. If you put into your heart [to work harder], then you’ll achieve everything,” the councilman said.

“I have to give a lot of credit to the Asian American community for its support. I did not run just because of the Asian American community, I ran for those who don’t have a voice and give everybody the opportunity [to share their views and opinions]. I want to make sure that those who are not represented must be represented,” Ryu added.

The first Korean American (and the second Asian American) to serve on the LA City Council, Ryu sees a brighter future for Asian businesses in the United States. As a councilman, Ryu said he would continue to push for Asian investments and imports in Los Angeles. Currently, 70 percent of Asian exports come to Los Angeles.

Philip Wang of Wong Fu Productions, an independent new media production company, is convinced that perseverance is key to success.

“If something is not working for you, then try to adjust and surround yourself with good people. You cannot do this alone, but you must have a team to gain support and share vision with one another,” Wang said.

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