How leadership empowers AAPI communities

By Faith Taylor, Global Sustainability, ESG and Social Impact Officer at Kyndryl

Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders have created groundbreaking technologies that have significantly improved how we live and work. Yet despite these contributions, societal challenges remain — particularly when creating career-advancing opportunities in the workplace. These challenges can include underrepresentation in leadership roles, microaggressions and cultural biases that hinder professional growth.

As we embark on Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month, technology companies must take actionable steps toward empowering AAPI communities. By increasing representation, enhancing awareness and fostering inclusivity, organizations can create environments where AAPI individuals not only survive but thrive.

I have experienced the benefits firsthand — and it’s also one of the reasons I am proud to serve as the executive sponsor of the AAPI Kyndryl Inclusion Network, a business resource group. As the child of an African American father and a Japanese mother, I bring a unique perspective rooted in a strong work ethic and a love for continuous learning found in both cultures. Inspired by my father’s pursuit of education late in life and my mother’s connection to nature through the ocean (my grandfather owned a shipping business in Japan), I value diversity of culture and thought, and strive to bridge understanding and empathy in the workplace.

That spirit continuously shows up in the work we do and the global teams we build at Kyndryl. For instance, I was a judge at the company’s recent Green Spark hackathon, which included 41 teams from 14 countries across 10 professions. The teams developed sustainability solutions that could be proprietary and scalable. This was diversity and collaboration in action, and reflected the power of our culture and people, including the significant contributions of AAPI individuals to the technology industry.

Authenticity to one’s heritage empowers individuals to enrich organizational cultures with varied insights. For me, embracing my Japanese and Black roots enables deeper connections and promotes inclusivity. By championing diversity and fostering inclusive cultures, technology companies can amplify AAPI voices and celebrate the richness of diverse backgrounds. I have found that diversity can help in identifying blind spots, considering various stakeholders' interests, and fostering innovation in environmental, social and governance strategies.

Diverse viewpoints and management can also lead to more comprehensive risk management strategies by encouraging open dialogue and active listening within the teams. It can facilitate collaborative decision-making processes, help with scenario planning or impact assessments, and play a role in balancing short-term goals with long-term sustainability considerations.

During AAPI Heritage Month — and beyond — it is critical to reflect on the significance of celebrating the heritage, contributions and struggles of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders. It serves as a reminder of the resilience and achievements of the AAPI community, emphasizing the importance of solidarity and allyship in advancing equity.