Last Friday, The Serica Initiative’s AAPI Mentorship Program gathered at the Luce Foundation in New York City for an afternoon of connection, reflection, and inspiration. About twenty mentors, mentees, and members of the working group who helped launch the program came together for the first time since May—making this lunch a truly special reunion.

The Luce Foundation proved to be a gracious host, providing a beautiful space and a delicious meal that set the tone for an afternoon of meaningful conversation.

The event began with a fireside chat between Katelyn Li, Managing Director and Market Team Lead at J.P. Morgan, and Andrea Louie, Executive Director of The Serica Initiative. Katelyn shared her journey in finance and the story behind building one of J.P. Morgan’s largest AAPI employee resource groups, offering invaluable insight into the power of leadership, inclusion, and community within corporate spaces.

Following the discussion, Farah Bala, founder of FARSIGHT, led a dynamic “Community Conversations” exercise. Participants paired up and exchanged personal stories—childhood memories or defining moments rarely shared in professional settings —a playful yet profound activity that prompted both laughter and reflection. The exercise opened up new layers of empathy, creativity, and courage, reminding everyone of the beauty in seeing—and being seen—through another’s eyes.

As the afternoon wrapped up, one sentiment was clear: the bonds formed through mentorship are not just professional—they are deeply human. The gathering reaffirmed Serica’s mission to build spaces where AAPI women can learn, lead, and lift one another. 

It was, in every sense, a Friday well spent.

See more photos and experience the day with us! We will have more news to come on the AAPI mentorship program cohort for 2026 in the coming weeks!