It’s Asian American Pacific Islander Heritage Month, and I want you to know that when young people go out looking for a job, it’s important for them to see other people who look like them, to help inspire them. Once I started walking into board rooms, I didn’t see other Asian Americans seated at the table. I didn’t know the possibilities for my career because no one looked like me to inspire me.

Over 12.8% of the Seattle Metro identifies as AAPI. For real estate and its related industries, the vision and passion of AAPI leaders can be seen across the region, including co-founder of Green Canopy NODE Sam Lai, local architect George Suyama, James Fung and Whitney Maehara of NB Design Group, and James Wong and Ming Fung CEO of Vibrant Cities and the developer of Infinity Shore Club Residences.  I am also continuously inspired by Robyn Kimura Hsu who led me to my Realogics Sotheby’s International Realty community. And we certainly cannot forget En-May Mangles an internationally renowned Strategic Intuitive Advisor, Empath and modern-day Spiritualist.

These industry leaders are making amazing things happen now and are inspiring the next generation to do more. The homes we create and where we live in the Pacific Northwest are reflections of our heritage and traditions. It’s more important now than ever that we reflect on where we came from and build on that legacy as we change the future.

As a third-generation Japanese American whose grandfather immigrated from Japan in the early 1900s, I’m a part of three generations of Shigas who lived in the same Central District home in Seattle. My family lost everything in World War II when they were sent to an internment camp—including a successful business in Chinatown (then Japantown). In the aftermath, my parents became peace advocates, and their philosophy was witnessed in everything they did. 

My values build on the peaceful world my parents worked so hard for. If you know me, you probably already know about my passion for green building and affordable housing. And now, I want to share what I’ve learned as a mentor at the University of Washington. I am fortunate enough to be involved in the career development of Asian American students that are going to change the world!

As we take building, real estate, design, and more into the future, it is also important to use this month honoring AAPI heritage by recognizing that a legacy of discrimination is still felt in the U.S. As recent as 2020, there were 279 anti-Asian hate crimes incidents, according to the Department of Justice.  That’s a 77% year-over-year increase.  

I believe that during this time of year it is important to remember all the accomplishments and struggles our AAPI community has endured. We need to move forward and embrace our differences and be truly proud of our culture and how we became who we are. 

Want to celebrate AAPI Heritage Month all year long? Check out and support these AAPI locally owned businesses and restaurants in Seattle.  

A version of this article also appears on rsir.com.