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Immigrant entrepreneurs share stories of resilience, entrepreneurship and belonging, exploring how building a business can create both freedom and community. Inspired by Fei-Fei Li’s memoir The Worlds I See, the panel highlights the vision, sacrifice and creativity that shape entrepreneurial journeys. Moderated by Cynthia Huie, panelists reflect on the challenges and triumphs of starting a business in a new land and how their enterprises nurture legacy, community, opportunity and hope for the next generation. Pre-Event Marketplace: Our panelists will be selling their products beginning at 5 PM in the Koret Lobby.
Panel discussion starts at 6 PM in the Koret Auditorium.
Cynthia Huie is a San Francisco–based entrepreneur and community leader. She is the founder and co-owner of On Waverly, a bookshop, gift store and community space in Chinatown celebrating Asian American stories and creativity. Currently serving as President of the San Francisco Small Business Commission, Cynthia champions local entrepreneurship and neighborhood revitalization across the city. Deeply rooted in the Bay Area, Cynthia brings a multidisciplinary perspective shaped by her work in retail, healthcare and civic service—all grounded in a commitment to supporting immigrant and small business communities.
Jeffrey Dumlao is the owner and head designer of Chartreuse by Roje, a boutique floral studio that celebrates creativity and beauty one stem at a time. Born in the Philippines and raised in San Francisco, Dumlao earned a master’s degree from Georgetown University and built a successful career in human resources before returning to his lifelong passion for floral design. He is deeply rooted in San Francisco’s small business community and actively involved in several local merchant associations.
Nafy Flatley is the founder of Teranga, a San Francisco–based company inspired by the vibrant flavors and wellness traditions of Senegal. Drawing on childhood memories of her grandmother preparing drinks from the baobab fruit—the “tree of life”—Flatley turned a family tradition into a thriving business. Through Teranga, she shares nourishing, sustainable products that celebrate culture, community and connection.
Naz Khorram is a queer Iranian artist, activist, and entrepreneur who founded Arcana, a Mission District gathering space that weaves together art, plants, food and music. After being imprisoned as a political dissident, Khorrram sought asylum in the United States in 2009, finding freedom and community in San Francisco. Through Arcana, they create space for connection, self-expression and the celebration of diverse cultures.
Wendy Lieu is a first-generation Vietnamese American chocolatier and co-founder of Socola Chocolatier, known for its inventive, award-winning confections that blend Vietnamese flavors with modern craft. Born in a refugee camp in Kuala Lumpur, Lieu grew up in the Bay Area, where she and her sister, Susan, began experimenting with chocolates that tasted like home. Today, Socola Chocolatier celebrates heritage, creativity and the immigrant spirit.
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Event Venue & Nearby Stays
Main Library - 100 Larkin St, San Francisco, CA, United States, California 94102
Concerts, fests, parties, meetups - all the happenings, one place.
