MassLive recently asked readers to identify people who are leaders from the Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) community throughout the state, working to make a difference in politics, education, business, the arts or another area of interest.
Profiles of these leaders will be published through AAPI Heritage Month in May. These are people our readers have identified as inspirational, who may be doing good acts for their communities. They are being recognized for their accomplishments, leadership and commitment to inspire change.
Yasmin Padamsee Forbes is the Executive Director of the Asian American and Pacific Islanders Commission in Massachusetts.Yasmin Padamsee Forbes
Yasmin Padamsee Forbes
Age: 55
Community: Cambridge
What area are you primarily involved in: Advocacy/activism
Her story: Yasmin Padamsee Forbes is the executive director of the Asian American and Pacific Islanders Commission in Massachusetts. Her unique perspective is shaped by her experiences as a first-generation immigrant and single mother, she said.
Her leadership emphasizes strategic planning and resource mobilization which can ensure impactful outcomes for a community, she added. Forbes also champions cross-cultural collaboration and partnership building as she has a background in working with non-profits, including the United Nations.
Her accolades include the 2019 All-Star Award from Harvard Kennedy School and the 2018 Julius E. Babbitt Memorial Volunteer Award, she said. Her commitment to social justice and human rights can really be seen as she helped organize the “Pride and Progress” LGBTQ film festival and helped foster partnerships in Burma.
Forbes also serves as a Cambridge Human Rights Commission Commissioner, where she advocates for diversity, equity, and inclusion, she said.
Her work resonates deeply, driving positive and sustainable change throughout Massachusetts, she said. Her efforts in advocacy, leadership and community service show her commitment to creating meaningful change and empowering marginalized communities.
Forbes immigrated to the United States of America from Papua New Guinea, she said. Her journey from moving from the island to becoming the leader of the Asian American and Pacific Islanders Commission in Massachusetts shows her resilience and collaboration.
Even though she faced discrimination in college, she was able to learn the value of perseverance, she said.
“This early challenge paved the way for impactful roles, including working with the United Nations and dedicating myself to promoting diversity and inclusion in Massachusetts,” Forbes said. “Through my experiences, I’ve come to appreciate the transformative strength of community and collaboration.”
In her words: “First and foremost, cultivate resilience. Challenges will inevitably arise, but viewing them as opportunities for growth can propel you forward. Secondly, prioritize building strong partnerships and collaborations. Success often hinges on the strength of your network and your ability to leverage diverse perspectives and expertise.”
We’re always open to hearing about more inspiring people. If you’d like to suggest someone else who should be recognized, please fill out this form.
