Asia Society Awards Ceremony Honors -Asian Changemakers-_1

On the evening of the 24th, Asia Society held the 11th annual Asia Game Changer Awards in Lower Manhattan, celebrating individuals and organizations that are making a transformative impact on Asia. This year’s honorees included The Asian American Foundation, climber and filmmaker Jimmy Chin, and comedian Bowen Yang, among others.

Asia Society President Kevin Rudd expressed his deep honor in leading the organization during such challenging times. “Each of this year’s award recipients has demonstrated compassion in distinct ways, whether through documenting history, promoting pop culture, or addressing anti-Asian hate,” Rudd emphasized. He underscored that fostering understanding and communication between East and West is more crucial now than ever.

The Asian American Foundation was the only organization recognized this year. Founded during the pandemic by prominent Asian American figures, the foundation aims to reduce and prevent hate crimes against Asians through research and educational initiatives. Norman Chen, the foundation’s CEO, addressed the audience, highlighting the ongoing issue of anti-Asian sentiment within our cities. A recent survey conducted by the foundation revealed that one in five Asians in New York City has encountered anti-Asian violence in 2023. He also pointed out that investments in the Asian community remain significantly inadequate, calling for more resources and attention to address the community’s needs.

Jimmy Chin, 51, received the award alongside his wife, Chai Vasarhelyi. Chin has climbed Everest and Meru multiple times, and the couple co-produced the documentary “Free Solo,” which won the Oscar for Best Documentary Feature in 2019.

Bowen Yang, who hails from a Chinese family in Brisbane, Australia, found inspiration in Korean-American actress Sandra Oh to pursue comedy. He has made a name for himself on “Saturday Night Live,” becoming the first Chinese-American cast member in the show’s history and has earned three Emmy nominations for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Comedy Series.

Other honorees this year included CNN International correspondent Christiane Amanpour and Bang Si Hyuk, the founder of HYBE Corporation. Notable past winners of Asian descent include figures such as Yo-Yo Ma, I.M. Pei, Jack Ma, Wang Shi, Lei Jun, Zhang Yimou, and Liu Qing.