(Above): Rajen Sheth, (l), CEO and Founder of Kyron Learning and former VP of Google Cloud AI and Industry Solutions speaking at the symposium. (Bob Hsiang photo)

Young people asked candid questions and heard from accomplished AAPI leaders at the Roots & Wings Youth Symposium, write Sandra Pan and Lisa Hsu.

For young people navigating an increasingly complex world, how do we empower them to shape their futures? What skills help them navigate challenges? What builds confidence to find their unique paths? And how can families, educators, and communities work together to support them and help them thrive?

Those questions came to life at the 1990 Institute’s 2026 Roots & Wings Youth Symposium, held Sept. 19, at the College of San Mateo Theatre. More than 450 people registered, including about 180 youth, 230 parents and guardians, and 50 educators, for a day centered on empowerment through community collaboration.

Among the 30 speakers were Yul Kwon, Google executive and winner of Survivor: Cook Islands; author and Emmy Award-winning journalist Dion Lim; and Rajen Sheth, CEO and Founder of Kyron Learning and former VP of Google Cloud AI and Industry Solutions. They shared stories of uncertainty, setbacks, cultural expectations, and finding their own paths.

Rajen Sheth, (l), CEO and Founder of Kyron Learning and former VP of Google Cloud AI and Industry Solutions was among the panelists at the symposium. (Bob Hsiang photo)
Rajen Sheth, (l), CEO and Founder of Kyron Learning and former VP of Google Cloud AI and Industry Solutions was among the panelists at the symposium. (Bob Hsiang photo)

Hearing leaders speak honestly about challenges can make success feel more attainable. An impressive résumé rarely captures the difficult decisions behind it. Their stories encouraged students to see how their cultural identities and experiences can be sources of strength as they navigate their own futures.

Conversations about artificial intelligence and changing career paths highlighted skills for an uncertain future: asking questions, seeking guidance, adapting to change, and exploring unfamiliar possibilities.

For Asian American families, the conversations touched on familiar questions: How do we balance financial security with individual interests? How do we honor cultural ties while making room for new possibilities? Which expectations should we carry forward, and which should we reconsider?

Dedicated programming for parents, guardians, and educators explored how adults can empower young people through listening, understanding, and collaboration. The symposium recognized that empowering young people takes a supportive network of families, educators, and community members working together.

As symposium co-chairs, we wanted to create a space where Asian American youth could feel understood and empowered. Roots & Wings brought youth and their key stakeholders together to learn, connect, and recognize that identity and community can be sources of strength. Complimentary admission, lunch, boba, and raffle opportunities helped make the day welcoming and accessible to all families.

Interested readers can learn more at: www.1990institute.org.

Sandra Pan is an Emeritus Director of the 1990 Institute and Co-Chair of its 2026 Roots & Wings Youth Symposium.
Sandra Pan is an Emeritus Director of the 1990 Institute and Co-Chair of its 2026 Roots & Wings Youth Symposium.
Lisa Hsu is the 1990 Institute’s Program Committee Co-Chair and Co-Chair of the Institute’s 2026 Roots & Wings Youth Symposium.
Lisa Hsu is the 1990 Institute’s Program Committee Co-Chair and Co-Chair of the Institute’s 2026 Roots & Wings Youth Symposium.