In honor of Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month, we’re highlighting two AAPI leaders in our community and sharing their insights on creating an inclusive workplace.
Hisae Uki
VP of Business Development,
Sun Noodle
“Creating an inclusive workplace culture is something that we think about every day because it leads to a more collaborative and productive Sun Noodle. We are not perfect, but we learn and improve constantly. Our open office space inspires sharing and collaboration, and it draws people into conversations with others. I try to say hello to every employee each day and I encourage everyone to share their thoughts during our weekly staff meetings. The meetings have become an important opportunity to ensure that people’s contributions are validated and appreciated. Food is also an important part of the Sun Noodle Ohana culture (of course)! We all enjoy celebrating happy occasions like birthdays over homemade meals, often representing the diverse cultural make up of our team. I am very fortunate to work with so many amazing people who help us maintain our inclusive culture because they believe in it, and at the end of the day we all want to feel like we matter to each other. This is how Sun Noodle succeeds.”
Be somebody who makes everybody feel like a somebody.
Anisah Yu Ahakuelo
Recruiting & Promotions Manager,
Les Schwab Tire Centers
“To me, creating an environment of inclusion starts with one of my favorite quotes, “Be somebody who makes everybody feel like a somebody.” To be inclusive you have to take the time to find out about people’s backgrounds and experiences, to care enough to find commonalities between you. That’s the start to making someone feel included — recognizing the unique person they are and yet sharing so much in common as fellow human beings.”