The Annual Gala is a premier event attended by leading figures from the fields of business, arts, culture, entertainment, and sports from across the Southern California region, the U.S., and Asia. Each year, Asia Society Southern California (ASSC) recognizes outstanding leaders who epitomize ASSC's mission of cross-cultural understanding. Southern California’s diversity, openness to people of all cultures, and thus its ability to attract big dreamers take center stage at this highly anticipated annual event.

This year, Asia Society Southern California is delighted to honor five individuals who best represent these qualities:

• Nikesh Arora, "Tech Visionary"
• Awkwafina, "Culture Visionary"
• Noriko Honda Chen, "Asian Women Empowered (AWE) Visionary"
• Sonia Cheng, "Hotel Visionary"
• Toni Ko, "Business Visionary"

I addition to our incredible lineup of honorees, Asia Society Southern California is delighted to present a special Sports Tribute, recognizing the stunning accomplishments of Asian and Asian-American athletes in the Southern California region, including:

• Jun Endo - Angel City FC
• Rui Hachimura - Los Angeles Lakers
• Shohei Ohtani - Los Angeles Angels
• Lang Ping - Volleyball Hall of Famer
• Taylor Rapp - 2019 - 2023 Los Angeles Rams
• Ali Riley - Angel City FC
• Alyssa Thompson - Angel City FC
• Michelle Wie West - LGPA Golfer

For more information, please visit our FAQs page. If you are interested in sponsorship opportunities or have additional questions, please contact [email protected].