Today we’d like to introduce you to Nancy Yap.
Hi Nancy, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I am Chinese Filipino American from Ohio.
I went to school in New York City, where I was given the opportunity to create my own ethnic studies major through history and English courses. I found myself drawn to learning more about Asian American communities and their stories, realizing I could help artists expand their reach. This is when I decided to become an artist manager.
After winning a Tony together for our work on Broadway, we moved to Los Angeles for a project that would increase voter registration through poetry. From there, I began working with Asian and Pacific Islander corporate, nonprofit, higher education, and now government leaders — supporting their talent, expanding the diversity of stories, and striving to inspire young Asian American and Pacific Islander leaders to chase their dreams.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not, what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Early on, I would often remind myself that the road was meant to be surprising. I was CHOOSING something different, a road that I had never seen anyone travel before.
I often would talk to the artists I represented about how we had already disappointed our parents, the people who loved us the most. However, each challenge I faced gave me an opportunity to build lasting relationships, creatively solve problems, and learn from each mistake.
I know that I faced glass ceilings, racism, and sexism in the work that I did in the entertainment industry. I also know that I continued to show up as myself, striving to be the best version of myself and sticking to my values as best I could.
Today, I am lucky to lead a nonprofit organization whose network spans multiple generations. I talk about race and politics all day, advocating for communities that are fast-growing and eager to be civically engaged. I feel supported by the years of relationships I have built in different industries. With a network that spans hip hop, poetry, cross sector leadership, and elected officials, I am excited for what we will be able to do together, no matter what we face.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
For the past three years, I have been the Executive Director of the Center for Asian Americans United for Self-Empowerment, also known as CAUSE. My work includes building community through civic leadership training and equipping communities with the tools they need to be civically engaged.
My work also includes engaging with and representing Asian and Pacific Islander (API) communities, which is something that I’m known for and is my specialty. From working with API artists to building large community events, I am most proud of my ability to create inclusive community spaces that are a combination of fun and educational. I believe that voting is a community activity, something we do together to create together.
With the work that I have done over the years, it is the people who I collaborate with that set me apart. I feel supported by a network of passionate individuals who like to make things happen, are not afraid of a challenge, and remind me that we will get it done. Together, we create an energy that draws in others who get things done, expanding the impact of all we do. Through it all, I feel that the most rewarding piece is the family I have found in this work, who make it fun even in the hardest moments.
Are there any apps, books, podcasts, blogs, or other resources you think our readers should check out?
I have learned that the best way for me to learn is through interaction and discussion. I enjoy consuming popular art and media to be able to engage in current conversations with people that I meet. Consuming pop culture has helped me build relationships and open doors. From BTS to Anime, Hip Hop to MMA, the more touch points through diverse topics the easier it is to find a connection.
I enjoy a few blogs: nonprofitaf.com and blog.angryasianman.com
I still love the work of the artists I managed. Beau Sia, Suheir Hammad, Denizen Kane, and the Visionaries.
I watch anime and Chinese/Korean dramas on Netflix and Viki.
And I’m always reading. Articles. Poems. Updates.
By being connected to communities through both engagement and entertainment, I have been able to earn trust, which I believe is the beginning of civic engagement. There is a trust that I am familiar, I am listening, and that our friendship can build positive change.
Contact Info:
Website: causeusa.org
Instagram: causeusa
Linkedin: nancy-yap-275b996