Asian American Pacific Islander Heritage Month - Kelly Truong

What is your name?
Kelley A. Truong
Who is your employer?
Zimmerman Kiser Sutcliffe, P.A.
What is your current profession or role in commercial real estate?
I am a Real Estate and Finance Attorney.
What is your involvement in CREW Orlando?
I am fairly new to CREW Orlando, but I recently joined the Future Leaders committee and I am excited to be involved.
What does AAPI Heritage Month mean to you? AAPI Heritage Month to me is a celebration of the resilience, creativity, and diversity of AAPI individuals. It is a time to not only recognize the struggles that we have faced in the past, but also to look at the progress we have made, and work toward a more inclusive and compassionate future.
What is your favorite cultural tradition?
Hands down, Tết (Lunar New Year) is my favorite cultural tradition. It is my favorite because to me it symbolizes family and togetherness.
In your opinion, how have the contributions of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders influenced the nation and the world?
The contributions of AAPI individuals have left an indelible mark on our world, fostering progress, understanding, and unity. In my opinion, one of the main contributions would have to be our strong emphasis on family values and that contribution can be seen across science, politics, business, and the community.
What do you hope to see for the Asian/ Pacific Islander community in the future?
I want to see more visibility. I was born and raised in Orlando so I had the chance to see Orlando’s evolution over time. Mills50 is the perfect example. Mills50, known for its diverse businesses, cultural events, and artistic expression, it exemplifies the strength of the AAPI community. Its existence reflects the community’s contributions and resilience. While Mills50 is a shining example, the AAPI community’s impact extends far beyond geographical boundaries. It’s about recognizing their influence in various spheres: education, arts, technology, healthcare, and more. In the future I hope to see the AAPI community expand and increase visibility beyond a few streets.