I met Annette in her role as Podcast Manager when I became the Podcast Director for the non-profit, Dear Asian Youth, and podcast, Dear Asian Girl. Working alongside her has been an incredibly rewarding experience, and her abilities truly shine in every aspect of her work.

First, in her role at Dear Asian Youth, Annette’s leadership style is marked by authenticity and a genuine concern for the well-being of those she works with and the projects of which she is part. She possesses an uncanny ability to not only understand the needs and emotions of those around her but also to provide unwavering support that makes everyone feel heard and valued.

Her knack for reading the room and tuning into the unspoken thoughts and feelings of others is truly remarkable and these skills enable her to create an environment where people feel confident and empowered to share their ideas, fostering a sense of camaraderie and innovation that is truly inspiring.

Her bubbly personality and sincere interest in the emotions and moods of her peers allow her to uplift and motivate others, turning even challenging situations into opportunities for growth and positivity. She even takes the time to meet with her team members, often travelling more than one-hour out of her way to chat, and many team members who are much younger find a mentor and a friend in her. Her ability to seamlessly co-lead and serve as a reliable second-in-command has made my time with Dear Asian Youth much more enjoyable and fruitful.

Second, Annette’s competence, organization skills, creativity, and a unique gift for collaboration is unparalleled. These traits have created a dedicated team player an invaluable asset to any group. Annette's creative energy knows no bounds: whether it's during a quick coffee chat or a brainstorming session, she consistently shares insightful thoughts and ideas that infuse every interaction with fresh perspectives.

However, what elevates her ideas above the rest is her humility and willingness to prioritize others' opinions and ideas above her own. She is the epitome of selflessness, always prioritizing the needs and feelings of others. Furthermore, her work ethic is truly commendable. Annette's dedication to building and sustaining meaningful relationships, excelling in her internships, and excelling in her academic pursuits is nothing short of awe-inspiring. Her genuine character shines through in every endeavor she takes on, leaving an indelible mark on everyone fortunate enough to work alongside her.

In closing, I can confidently say that Annette is a force to be reckoned with. Her innate ability to collaborate, uplift, and inspire is truly extraordinary. Her selfless nature, combined with her remarkable work ethic and vibrant personality, makes her an absolute joy to work with.

Annette is not just a Podcast Manager; she is a catalyst for positive change, an embodiment of teamwork, and a beacon of authenticity. Although I met her in this role, I can confidently say that I have also made a lifelong friend that will endure and I will always be able to count on her no matter where we are in the future.

— Ellen Huang - Podcast Director @ Dear Asian Youth, Legal Counsel @ Canadian Red Cross