Protiviti was thrilled to attend the 2024 Ascend Convention in Las Vegas last month, hosted by Ascend Global Leaders. Their mission is to support, develop, and empower Pan-Asians throughout their careers with a network for growth and advancement that enables their members to serve our vibrant communities to the best of their abilities.
This year’s Convention theme of “We Lead Together” brought attendees together to discover the power of leadership with a focus on learning how to build a culture of collective leadership, creating solutions for leadership advancement, uncovering unique leadership styles, and learning how to become and develop holistic leaders for both individual and collective good.
Several Protiviti team members attended, including leaders from our Employee Network Group ASPIRE (Asian Social Professional Innovative and Resourceful Employees). We asked them about what stood out from their time at the Convention and how the theme of “We Lead Together” resonated with them. Read below to learn more!
Jessica Wang – Senior Consultant, Technology Consulting
My favorite part of the Ascend Convention is the momentum and energy that the AAPI community brings when we gather together. The network at the Ascend Convention is so strong, and I got to meet so many people who inspire me in my career. It’s so special getting to see my fellow ASPIRE co-leaders in person after spending years working virtually. The comradery and true connection really come from being in person together and spending time together as both colleagues and friends. Albeit separate from my day job, ASPIRE and Ascend provide so much light and meaning into my time here at Protiviti.
The theme of “We Lead Together” really challenged me to think about the ways I view and seek mentorship and sponsorship in my career. Mentorship and sponsorship are often used interchangeably, but it’s important to not conflate the two. Mentors are meant to challenge and stretch us, while sponsors are meant to advocate and break barriers for us. In every career path, we need both, both within and outside our organizations, but what really stood out to me was the way in which we should be seeking. As we navigate finding mentors and sponsors in our careers, we need to be specific in our asks and invite others to co-create and partner with us in our journey. And if at any point you are getting everything you ask for, you’re probably not asking for enough.
Samantha Sung – Manager, Risk & Compliance
I particularly enjoyed the opportunity to network with other AAPI professionals and leaders at the Convention from all over the country. Everyone has a unique story and career journey, and I find it fascinating to learn about their paths and the lessons they offer. Their experiences provide valuable insights that can inform and inspire our own careers.
The theme of “We Lead Together” reminded me that as leaders in the workplace, it is crucial to demonstrate empathy and understanding. Recognizing and respecting each other’s boundaries and personal priorities—such as leaving early to pick up a child from school or taking a parent to a doctor’s appointment—while ensuring that work responsibilities are met, is essential. By being empathetic and supportive, we can effectively lead and uplift together.
Dorothy Lam – Senior Consultant, Internal Audit & Financial Advisory
My favorite part of the Ascend Convention was fostering new connections both in and out of Protiviti. From participating in interactive sessions and meeting your tablemates, to meeting someone new at the networking events, the Ascend Convention provides ample opportunity to venture outside of your comfort zone and meet people who come from vastly different personal and professional backgrounds. It’s inspiring to hear from AAPI professionals who have paved the way for others in their career by offering their support, advice, and mentorship. I also enjoyed building comradery with the Protiviti team!
During a specific session I attended, I was drawn to two points that related to the theme of “We Lead Together.” First, it is important to consider and leverage lateral moves within your organization. People often think about career progression as upwards movements; however, growth opportunities also exist laterally. Second, in order to break through your career, you must utilize your network by leaning on peers and advisors you trust. As we continue to grow in our careers, it is important to seek opportunities for growth that exist outside of common circles. To progress and veer away from stagnation, we have to seek growth opportunities and build a diverse and supportive network.
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