The next interview I’m sharing is with Kit Canlas, who I was able to meet in person at the 2025 APAICS Awards Gala and AAAIM’s Chicago AANHPI Celebration.

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Kit grew up in Texas and later moved to Nashville, and is an artist and singer, inspired by her grandmother. She hopes to apply her authenticity and creativity to her work. Currently, Kit is Vice President at the Association of Asian American Investment Managers (AAAIM), where she helps with strategic planning and supporting team growth. During her time at AAAIM, Kit noticed there was little data on the experience of Asian women in the industry. AAAIM then conducted research that surveyed Asian women, non Asians, and non women about perceptions of Asian women in the investment industry. From there, AAAIM started a women's network (AAAIM Network of Women).

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Kit is also involved as a community member, board member, and previous executive director at Wild Heart Meditation Center. She was the first person and woman of color and queer person to serve on the board. Her role was to support the team, facility, board, and meditation teachers. She also helped kickstart community partnerships with low income communities, and tried to encourage community development.

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To Kit, elevating Asian American women’s voices is not only raising our voices but also connecting with other groups and causes. Additionally, she believes in the value of connecting and conversing intergenerationally, and not just focusing on our struggles, but celebrating our uniqueness.