OUR MISSION & HISTORY


What's AAWIL Conference?


AAWIL is the only conference in the nation dedicated to Asian American women and non-binary students and professionals.


All proceeds from the AAWIL Conference go to ASPIRE, a 501c3 non-profit.

The Asian American Women in Leadership Conference was the first conference in the nation dedicated to Asian American women. Since 2004, the Conference has been engaging more than 150 Asian American students and professionals yearly in workshops and discussions that explore various aspects of leadership.


First held in 2004 by ASPIRE, the Asian American Women in Leadership (AAWIL) Conference is an interactive event aimed at growing and developing personal and professional leadership. The conference provides a forum for a cross-generational community of Asian American girls and women to share experiences and learn from one another. The program includes a keynote address, small group activities, networking opportunities, workshops, and community building sessions. Conference participants include high school, college, and graduate school students and young, mid-career, and seasoned professionals from around the country. 


Asian American Women in Leadership Conference lotus icon

2026 Conference Team

We are all volunteers in this together, contributing our time and skills to give back to a worthy cause. 


Learn more about our organization at girlsaspire.org.

Catherine Allen

Catherine Allen


Conference Co-director


Vice-President, Global Services Operations, Schneider Electric

Lizette Sta. Maria

Lizette Sta. Maria


Conference Co-director


Ed.M. '26, Harvard Graduate School of Education

Thi Doan

Thi Doan


Conference Sponsorship Outreach Coordinator


Student, DePauw University