LEAP Connect
LEAP Connect aims to bring both needed and inspirational leadership dialogues to the community. Through a series of accessible monthly leadership conversations, trainings, networking opportunities and more, participants will build the tools and resources needed to inspire change within their personal and professional communities.
Upcoming Event
Beyond Hard Work: How to Advocate for Your Wants Without Feeling “Too Much”
Many of us were raised to believe that hard work speaks for itself—but in reality, staying silent about our contributions often keeps us overlooked and underrecognized. For many Asian Pacific Islanders, the fear of being seen as "too much" or "too demanding" can make self-advocacy feel uncomfortable.
In this workshop, we’ll unpack the cultural and systemic reasons we downplay our value and reframe self-advocacy as a skill that honors both our work and our worth. You’ll learn how to communicate your impact with confidence, advocate for your needs without guilt, and embrace visibility in a way that feels authentic—not performative. Through guided exercises and real-world examples, you’ll walk away with tangible strategies to ask for what you deserve—whether it’s a raise, leadership opportunities, or simply more respect in your personal and professional life.
This workshop is tailored to the API experience but is open to all allies and community members.
LEAP Connect leadership workshops are free, accessible to the public, and are intended to bring a safe space to the community. Participants can walk away from the sessions with the tools and resources necessary to increase their leadership skills and inspire change.
About Nicole Cruz
Nicole Cruz is a certified life and leadership coach, TEDx speaker, and the founder of the first coaching company to cater specifically to the needs of the 1st & 2nd generation immigrant community. Through culturally-informed leadership coaching, Nicole helps folks with immigrant roots break generational cycles and become powerful leaders. Her expertise is in empowering clients to go from people-pleasing to making life-changing decisions that align with their values, wants, and goals. She is the daughter of Filipino immigrants, an aspiring salsa dancer, and currently resides in Honolulu with her husband.
Thank you to our LEAP Connect sponsors
