Some Asian American Entrepreneurs I Admire

I am an American first and foremost. I am a product of the American dream. I am also of Asian descent and heritage. I would like to pay tribute to some other Asians who have not only succeeded in their business but also gave back to their community. They are true heroes.

• Tony Hsieh, CEO of Zappos
• Chieh Huang, CEO of Boxed
• Amy Chua, author, "Tiger Mom"
• Allison Lee Pillinger, author, "The Bleeding Heart Conservative"
• Michelle Malkin, Political talk radio host, commentator, and author.
• Wei Lee, Chief Product Architect at Garmin

Tony Hsieh moved his company's headquarters to downtown Las Vegas to revitalize a dying city landmark. In the process, he brought other startups back downtown.

Chieh Huang decided to help pay his employees' children's college education tuition and also pay for employees' weddings. What a commitment to his employees and giving back.

Amy Chua withstood vicious remarks by her critics and raised two great daughters. Her tough-love approach to child-rearing may not work for everyone but it is a winning formula for others.

Allison Lee Pillinger wrote a book explaining conservative values and how they are the best philosophy for all to live their lives.

Michelle Malkin is one of a few successful Asian conservative talk show hosts, and her books are also right on the mark.

At Garmin, Wei Lee designs products that are real useful such as GPS devices.

It is important to have good role models. We are a melting pot of immigrants. We also recognize individual and cultural differences. It is human nature to gravitate to a group we most identify with. As an American of Asian descent, I look for people of similar backgrounds for inspiration. These individuals are great role models for all American youths but especially for Asian youths.

These are some of my personal heroes. They are true examples of success not only financially for themselves but as caring human beings. They are real role models for future generations. I am so proud of what they have done for our country.