ILF Founder Chiling Tong Empowers Asian Pacific Youth with New Book “Door of Opportunity”
Expresses Gratitude for Community Support and Urges Unity for a Brighter Future
Los Angeles, CA (September 14, 2024) – The Los Angeles chapter of the International Leadership Foundation (ILF) held its 2024 Annual Luncheon at Almansor Court in Alhambra, featuring the organization’s founder, Chiling Tong. During the event, Tong introduced her new book, Door of Opportunity, sharing her inspiring journey and dedication to creating opportunities for the next generation of Asian Pacific Americans.
From Left: Moderator Hon, California Superior Court Judge Linda L Sun, Chiling Tong, Tong’s husband Joel Szabat (Photo by: Richard Ren/LAPost)
As the President of the National Asian Pacific American Chamber of Commerce, Tong has devoted herself full-time to the ILF. Her book is not just a personal memoir but also a roadmap for young people, particularly Asian Americans, on how to persevere, overcome challenges, and achieve their dreams. Drawing on her own life—from an international student to a senior U.S. government official—Tong provides real-life examples of success and leadership principles that can guide youth in their pursuit of opportunities.
Chiling Tong (Photo by: Richard Ren/LAPost)
Tong’s career serves as a model for young people, showing that hard work and determination can overcome any obstacles. In addition to her role at the ILF, she also serves on the advisory board for the upcoming Asian American History Museum, which Congress approved in 2023. This project aims to educate the younger generation on their cultural heritage, fostering a deeper understanding and confidence in their roots.
(Photo by: Richard Ren/LAPost)
A Legacy of Leadership and Resilience
Chiling Tong’s family background is notable: her father, General Dong Ping, was the president of Taiwan’s Chung Cheng Institute of Technology and played a significant role in Taiwan’s railway development. Her great-uncle, Dong Xian Guang, was the Republic of China’s ambassador to the U.S. and an advisor to Chiang Kai-shek. However, her personal success is the result of her own perseverance. Tong’s story is one of self-made success, a lesson to young people that determination, not just background, can lead to significant achievements.
Born in Los Angeles, Tong started her career as chair of the Los Angeles Action Committee, was appointed by Governor Pete Wilson as the first director of California’s trade office in Taiwan, and eventually rose to become the Assistant Deputy Secretary of Commerce. Her experiences highlight the importance of lifelong learning and continuous growth for anyone aspiring to success.
In 2000, Tong founded ILF with the goal of empowering the next generation of Asian Pacific American (APA) leaders. Over the past 25 years, ILF has provided over 10,000 APA college students with the opportunity to intern in Washington, D.C., allowing them to gain first-hand experience in public policy, federal government operations, and leadership. These programs have given young APAs invaluable opportunities to develop leadership skills and enhance their civic awareness.
Building the Next Generation of Leaders
As an advocate for unity within the Asian community, Tong emphasizes the importance of youth speaking up and actively engaging in civic affairs. She believes that only by participating can APAs ensure their voices are heard and their rights protected.
Tong’s book encourages young people to step outside their comfort zones, challenging them to discover their potential. Opening the Door to Opportunity is a guide for youth to embrace their dreams courageously. Through her personal experiences, Tong conveys the importance of resilience in the face of failure, turning adversity into motivation for future success.
A Voice for the APA Community
Having served in senior roles under four U.S. presidents—George W. Bush, Barack Obama, Donald Trump, and Joe Biden—Tong has been a prominent advocate for APAs in politics and business. She has been a member of the White House Asian Pacific American Advisory Commission under Bush and Trump and currently serves as an Economic Equity Advisor under Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen.
Throughout her career, Tong has remained committed to using her leadership to connect the APA community with resources from federal, state, and local governments, as well as private businesses. She sees her role as a bridge, facilitating dialogue between mainstream America and the APA community.
(Photo by: Richard Ren/LAPost)
A Call to Action for Youth
Tong encourages young people to have big dreams and to believe in their ability to make an impact, regardless of their background. She stresses that active participation in the political process is key to effecting change, urging young people to engage in public affairs and understand the importance of collaboration across political parties.
In addition to the success highlighted in her new book, Tong doesn’t shy away from discussing the personal challenges she’s faced throughout her career, including health issues and workplace bullying. Her candid reflections are a reminder that success often comes with setbacks, but with the right support and determination, obstacles can be overcome.
Looking to the Future
As the leader of the National Asian Pacific American Chamber of Commerce, which represents over 2.9 million APA businesses, Tong has continued to advocate for economic growth and cooperation within the APA community. Since 2021, the Chamber has distributed more than $8 million in grants to APA entrepreneurs, creating opportunities and paving the way for the next generation of APA leaders.
Her husband, Joel Szabat, who co-founded ILF and previously served as Deputy Secretary of Transportation, joined Tong in Los Angeles for the ILF event, sharing insights on his work with Amtrak. Their joint efforts demonstrate how APA families can maintain cultural traditions while contributing to the broader American society.
(Photo by: Richard Ren/LAPost)
Community Endorsement and Recognition
Tong’s new book has been endorsed by notable figures, including former U.S. Secretary of Transportation Elaine Chao, Harvard Kennedy School professor William H. Overholt, and other influential leaders. Their praise not only recognizes Tong’s achievements but also signals a bright future for APA youth who aspire to follow in her footsteps.
At the ILF event, U.S. Senator Judy Chu praised Tong for her unwavering dedication to empowering the next generation, stating that young people need more role models like her to demonstrate that APAs can have a profound influence in America’s political and business arenas.
(Photo by: Richard Ren/LAPost)
Door of Opportunity reflects the determination of a new generation of immigrants and serves as a beacon of hope and guidance for young people striving to achieve their dreams. Through her leadership and example, Chiling Tong continues to inspire unity, courage, and a commitment to progress among the APA community. (By: Richard Ren/LAPost)
