AACC Uses Hopin Virtual Platform to Host Annual "Jewels of Asia" Awards Gala 2021!

The Asian American Chamber of Commerce (AACC) proudly hosted its annual “Jewels of Asia” Awards Gala 2021 on Tuesday, May 25th from 4:00 p.m. until 6:00 p.m. via the Hopin Virtual Platform. Over 100 guests experienced remarks from Virginia Senators Tim Kaine and Mark Warner, Senator Chris Van Hollen of Maryland, Congressman Gerry Connolly from 11th District Virginia, keynote speakers Ambassador Katharine Tai of the USTR and Buddy Rizer, Executive Director, from Loudoun County Economic Development, and other special guest speakers.  The Gala featured its signature Awards Ceremony honoring 12 awardees in various categories, unique Asian cultural aspects and performances, and showcases for highlighting Diversity and Inclusion and Non-Profit organizations making a difference in the DC Region business community.  Breakout interactive sessions on Japanese Tea Culture by Chado Uranseke Tankokai Tearoom and Japanese Sake Culture by DCSake company were big hits for Gala attendees. The ability to socialize virtually and make new professional connections through networking on the platform allowed attendees to unite and celebrate this festive event.  Lisa Wang Crouch, Sales Leader, for State Farm Insurance and Kishan Alexander, Senior Vice President, at World Insurance Associates, LLC were this year’s virtual embees.  The Awards Gala united all guests in the spirit of Respect and Unity for the AAPI community as achievement and culture were celebrated.  This event was recorded and can be viewed here. Making memories for the future is at the heart of the Gala as recognizing the “jewels” in our business community is what defines this special occasion. Our Commemorative Program Guide can be used to keep the memories alive at here. This event would not be possible without the support of our sponsors, of whom we are truly grateful. The annual Awards Gala looks forward to seeing everyone in person in May of 2022 when we celebrate our 13th year hosting this Chamber tradition. Stay connected with AACC for future events, membership and sponsorship options, and support services at www.asian-amercianchamber.org. We value our members and “Friends of AACC,” that truly bring our mission to life.
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The Jewels of Asia Chamber Awards Gala recognizes businesses and Asian American & Pacific Islander (AAPI) business leaders who have made outstanding contributions to the Metropolitan Washington, D.C. business community and economy. This gala event is a great opportunity for business leaders and community members to engage and celebrate the contributions made by Asian Americans & Pacific Islanders to our vibrant DC Metro region economy. Special guest presenters, remarks from honored officials, special activities and cultural performances will all be returning favorites. 

The 2021 Awards Gala will utilize a Virtual Platform that continues to keep us connected during these times and allows the tradition of this annual Chamber event to come alive. Please join us as we honor those who inspire, revolutionize, achieve, lead, and capture our hearts through goodness. We look forward to having you join us and be part of AACC’s future in this history-making Awards Gala 2021.

Gala Awardees 2021

Award Category Honorees
Member of the Year Robert Jensen, Strat3 LLC
Business of the Year (50 or less employees) Win Commercial Group
Business of the Year (51 and more employees) Harmonia Holdings Group, LLC
Business of the Year (51 and more employees) Dunlap Bennett & Ludwig
Asian Business Leader Robb Wong, FedSolve LLC
Champions of Diversity Award PNC Bank
Chamber Partner of the Year BGE
Corporate Social Responsibility Award Riva Solutions Inc.
Corporate Social Responsibility Award M&T Bank
Young Entrepreneur of the Year Jade Dai, GL Capital LLC
Chairman/President Award Kishan Alexander, World Insurance Associates, LLC
Reena Bhatia, ProposalHelper

We are excited to announce our 2021 Jewels of Asia Gala award recipients. The listed awardees were chosen based on the significant impact and contribution that they have made to the region. After a thoughtful selection process and much anticipation.

Register now to join us in congratulating our Top 10 Awardees who excelled in leadership and accomplishment that were recognized by the Chamber at this year’s premier event as true “jewels.”

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Our Speakers

These Experts will Inspire you to Create Future

Katherine Tai

Katherine Tai

Trade Ambassador, Office of the United States Trade Representative (USTR)

Tim Kaine

U.S. Senator, Commonwealth of Virginia

Mark Warner

U.S. Senator, Commonwealth of Virginia

Chris Van Hollen

U.S. Senator, Maryland

Gerry Connolly

U.S. Congressman, Commonwealth of Virginia

Victor Hoskin

President & CEO, Fairfax County Economic Development Authority

Buddy Rizer

Executive Director, Loudoun County Economic Development, Virginia

Gala Award Categories

Submit your nomination before March 31, 2021

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1. Member of the Year

(member only)
The Member of the Year Award is the highest honor bestowed upon members of the Chamber. Nominee must be a member in good standing and affiliated with an active committee in good standing Nominee must have demonstrated continuing interest in and support of the Chamber. Nominee must have a record of involvement for AACC’s activities and advocate for AACC.

2. Business of the Year

(50 or less employees) (member only)
Award to an outstanding business with 50 or less employees. Achieved business and financial success and for its involvement in the Chamber and community activities. Demonstrated measurable success as a business and/or as an employer. Made exceptional contributions by promoting community betterment.

3. Business of the Year

(51 and more employees) (member only)
Award to an outstanding business with over 51 employees. Achieved business and financial success and for its involvement in the Chamber and community activities. Demonstrated measurable success as a business and/or as an employer. Made exceptional contributions by promoting community betterment.

4. Champions of Diversity Award

(member or non-member)
Award to corporations who demonstrated trailblazing efforts in one or more of the following areas:
• Creates and promotes diverse and inclusive workplaces
• Promotes Supplier Diversity

5. Chamber Partner of the Year 

(member or non-member)
This Award is selected based on their initiative, leadership and involvement in AACC and communities that embody the spirit of genuine partnership and benefit the overall community. Leadership/Innovation in engagement. Benefits of the collaboration, the nature and extent of the positive outcomes resulting for the partnership. Commitment to providing sustainable and enduring outcomes, long-term and ongoing benefits to AACC.

6. Asian Business Leader

(member or non-member)
The Asian Business Leader Award recognizes an Asian business leader who has successfully built local bridges to the Asian business community through business, personal, civic, and community activities. Asian Business Leader of the Year Award – presented to an innovative business owner or individual who recognizes and meets a market need.

7. Young Entrepreneur of the Year

 (member under age 40) (member or non-member)
This award is awarded to an individual under the age of 40 who has tackled the challenges of entrepreneurship and/or has demonstrated professional growth and success in their respective field of work. Has demonstrated leadership within their workplace and/or within the community. Has contributed to the community through active participation in community initiatives. Has demonstrated entrepreneurial ability and innovation in customer service initiatives and/or management.

8. Corporate Social Responsibility Award

(member or non-member)
Award to organizations who demonstrated leadership and commitment to support the community and dedicated to making the society a healthier and more sustainable place.

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Gala Events

2020 Awards

The 2020 Asian American Chamber of Commerce Virtual “Jewels of Asia” Awards Gala is done on Thursday, October 22, 2020 from 4:00 p.m. until 6:00 p.m. The Chamber recognizes individuals, small businesses, corporations, and Asian & Pacific American (APA) business leaders who have made a significant contribution to the Metropolitan Washington, D.C. business community and economy. Read More
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