Celebrating AANHPI Heritage Month is a chance to honour the achievements, history and culture of Asian American, Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander communities across the United States. Observed every May, the month was first proclaimed in 1990 and made a permanent annual observance by Congress in 1992. It marks two significant anniversaries: the arrival of the first Japanese immigrants in the United States on 7 May 1843, and the completion of the transcontinental railroad on 10 May 1869, built with major contributions from Chinese labourers.
Celebrating AANHPI Heritage Month: Theme & Events
Each May, the Federal Asian Pacific American Council (FAPAC) designates a theme for the observance. In 2026 it was "Power in Unity: Strengthening Communities Together," with imagery of a bridge symbolising innovation, resilience, connection and belonging. FAPAC sets a new theme every year, so events, resources and speaker programming shift accordingly. For the fuller spread of what else is being marked in May, see our Awareness Days & Cultural Calendar for May.
Booking an inspiring speaker is an excellent way for businesses to authentically celebrate Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month. Speakers can offer meaningful insight, foster understanding, encourage dialogue and inspire action on diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) initiatives within your organisation. An engaging speaker can meaningfully lift employee engagement, cultural awareness and inclusivity. If you're planning heritage-month content across the year, our DEI Days and Events in the United States guide and our piece on Hispanic Heritage Month speakers are good next stops.
With PepTalk, booking a speaker for your event is simple and hassle-free. Our platform gives you easy access to a diverse range of talented AAPI speakers, thought leaders and influencers. With a straightforward booking process, clear pricing and personalised support, PepTalk makes it easy to find the right speaker for your event goals. Celebrate Asian American, Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander Heritage Month meaningfully by bringing inspiring voices to your organisation.
Speakers to Book for AANHPI Heritage Month
Asha Rangappa
Asha Rangappa brings a distinctive perspective to AANHPI Heritage Month conversations, drawing on her career as an FBI Special Agent specialising in counterintelligence and her current role at Yale University's Jackson School of Global Affairs. Her expertise in national security law and ethics, paired with her work as a media analyst, offers audiences a grounded view of identity, leadership and public service.
PepTalk Fact: Asha once pursued a Fulbright scholarship in Bogotá, Colombia 🌎
Sheila Xu exemplifies representation and innovation in STEM, making her a strong choice for AANHPI Heritage Month. As Deputy Director at AstroAccess, she champions accessibility and inclusion in space exploration, and her path as one of the first deaf Asian pilots training as an astronaut shows how determination and technology can challenge assumptions about who gets to lead in STEM.
PepTalk Fact: Sheila's call sign "Cool" was earned after handling an emergency plane landing ✈️
Pandit Dasa offers a distinctive take on mindfulness, resilience and leadership, shaped by 15 years spent as a monk. His work resonates during AANHPI Heritage Month by showing how Eastern philosophies and practices can shape a more mindful, inclusive workplace culture.
PepTalk Fact: Pandit has spoken to organisations including NASA and Google about mindful leadership 🧘
Marita Cheng is a compelling speaker choice for AANHPI Heritage Month, recognised for her work as a tech entrepreneur and advocate for diversity in STEM. She founded Robogals Global to bring more young women into engineering and robotics, and her companies Aipoly and Aubot showcase practical leadership in AI and robotics. Her career reflects the resilience, creativity and drive for inclusion that the month sets out to celebrate.
PepTalk Fact: Marita became the youngest-ever Member of the Order of Australia in 2019 🦾
💡 Would you like to mark AANHPI Heritage Month with an expert speaker? Let us know, and we'll find the perfect PepTalk expert for your organisation. Email us at hello@getapeptalk.com or send us a message via the chat. You can also call us on +44 20 3835 2929 (UK) or +1 737 888 5112 (US). Remember, it's always a good time to get a PepTalk!
At PepTalk, we harness the power of human intelligence to inspire and transform your people, insights, and events. Whether you're looking for expert speakers, tailored learning experiences, or unforgettable corporate events, our team is here to help. Get in touch with us today to find out more.
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