LAS VEGAS - To promote Asian-American leadership in government, the White House Initiative on Asian-Americans and Pacific Islanders (AAPIs) has launched a training program for managers.
The program is expected to increase the number of senior and mid-level managers in the federal government.
“(This is) part of ensuring that our government looks very much like our community. We are committed to preserving that diversity in government,” Kiran Ahuha, WHIAAPI executive director told media last Oct. 14.
The one-year mentor training fellowship program is expected to enhance communication and leadership skills in these individuals.
“There is a sense of frustration among AAPIs because of cultural upbringing,” Ahuja said, referring to how these individuals think they are seen as future leaders.
Ahuja noted that doubts about their communication style or “how outspoken” they need to be are common questions among AAPI government employees
“(The program) is about building a level of confidence among them. This is a very important issue for Asian-Americans in government,” she added.
Ahuja, along with several senior White House officials, were in Las Vegas for a Town Hall meeting on jobs and housing. The meeting was part of the two-year anniversary celebration of the WHIAAPI’s reauthorization.
The WHIAAPI, a federal inter-agency working group was reestablished by President Obama in October 2009 with a goal of improving the quality of life of members of AAPI communities nationwide. The Initiative was first established during the Clinton administration.
Among its many activities are town hall meetings such as the one held in Las Vegas where senior officials of various federal agencies will “listen, learn and engage” with members of these groups at the grassroots level.
Data gathered from these activities are used to create plans and policies that would address the issues affecting the AAPI community and eventually improve their quality of life.
In the executive order reauthorizing the WHIAAPI, President Obama said, “When any of our citizens are unable to fulfill their potential due to factors that have nothing to do with their talent, character, or work ethic, then I believe there is a role for our government to play.”
At the media briefing in Las Vegas last Oct, 14, Ahuja said, “Within that executive order, there is a commitment to improving diversity in the federal government.”
(www.asianjournal.com)
(Las Vegas Oct 20-26, 2011 Sec A pg.1)
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