Celebrating Asian American, Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander Heritage Month

In honor of Asian American, Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander Heritage Month, we're featuring inspiring stories of our AAPI members who are shaping the future of accounting.
 

What message would you like to share with the MassCPAs community during AANHPI Heritage Month?

I believe that AANHPI Heritage Month is a great time to celebrate how incredibly diverse and unique Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander cultures really are. I would encourage people to learn about these cultures and all the meaningful traditions they have - not only to increase awareness but also because these traditions are genuinely fun and interesting to learn about. For example, Holi, the festival of colors, is a time where family and friends come together and celebrate by throwing powdered paint at one another; this always makes for a fun and vibrant time.
 

How has your heritage shaped your values and perspectives in your professional life?

As a South Indian from Tamil Nadu, a big part of my life has been the festival of Pongal. Pongal, which is celebrated around the time of Tamil New Year, is a time where friends and family come together and have a feast of Pongal, which is both the name of the festival and a South Indian dish. This concept of being together and stressing the importance of caring for the ones around you is something that has carried over into my professional life. I find myself being much more open to team projects and collaborative experiences, as that concept of togetherness is something that has been instilled in me as a part of my culture and heritage.

What’s a story or experience from your journey that you feel is important to share during AANHPI Heritage Month?

One story I often reflect on is my journey as an international student—navigating a new language, culture and system, while striving to improve every day. I came to the U.S. filled with hope, but also uncertainty. Everything felt unfamiliar, and even simple tasks became challenges. But I made a promise to myself: keep showing up, keep learning and never give up.

Eventually, I overcame language barriers, adjusted to new cultural norms and built a life here—from student to permanent resident. Through it all, I learned that resilience isn’t about having all the answers; it’s about continuing to show up, even when things are hard. I hope my journey reminds others that, no matter how tough things get, there’s always a light at the end of the tunnel if you keep moving forward.
 

Is there anything you’d like to share about your background, perspective, or personal journey that feels meaningful to highlight?

For a long time, I was self-conscious about my accent. English isn’t my first language, and I used to worry people wouldn’t understand me or take me seriously. But over time, I’ve learned that my accent is a part of who I am—it reflects where I come from and the path I’ve taken.

Now, I focus on speaking clearly and with confidence. I’ve come to realize that what makes you different can also make you stand out. Often, the things we’re most insecure about are the very things that make us unique. The key is owning your story with pride.

What does AANHPI Heritage Month mean to you, and how do you hope it is recognized and celebrated?

Growing up in a predominantly white neighborhood and being one of only three Asian students in my school, I often struggled to connect with my Asian identity. Over time, though, I’ve grown more comfortable in my own skin—learning to appreciate what it means to be Asian and to take pride in who I am.

To me, AANHPI Heritage Month is about celebrating those shared cultural ties and recognizing the hard work and accomplishments of the AANHPI community. Entering a predominantly white industry can feel intimidating, but when organizations like MassCPAs make the effort to celebrate and acknowledge this diversity, it creates a more welcoming and inclusive environment.

How do you see your cultural background as a strength in your work?

Being a person of color has taught me how to adapt to different environments, approach others with respect and value perspectives different from my own. It also motivates me to lead by example and support underrepresented voices in the accounting profession.

What advice would you give to other aspiring AANHPI professionals in accounting?

Embrace your cultural identity as a strength, not something to blend in or downplay. Our diverse perspectives are valuable in a profession that thrives on trust, integrity and global thinking. Find mentors who believe in your growth, speak up even when it's uncomfortable and remember that your voice matters—especially in rooms where you might be the only one like you.
 

How has your heritage shaped your values and perspectives in your professional life?

My heritage has instilled in me a strong sense of discipline, respect and responsibility—values that align closely with the principles of accounting. It’s also taught me the importance of community and giving back, which continues to influence the way I lead teams, support clients and contribute to the broader profession.