Hmong National Development Conference 2019
The Hmong National Development Conference was held this year from April 19th through April 21st in San Jose, California. The theme this year was "Be Bold - Unleash Your Potential". There were over 700 attendees, including Judge Kristy Yang and Neng Thao from Neng Now. The workshop topics ranged from funerals to Hmong LGBTQIA. Other components of the conference included a business pitch competition, an impact award, and a spirit award.
This was my first HND Conference, and I was completely blown away by the energy, the organization, and the professionalism of the event as a whole. The event was paperless, and we were all asked to download and use the Whova app. It was so good to be able to interact with other attendees and look at my own schedule and the workshops I chose. The map of the hotel was on the app. The app really enhanced my experience, and I was impressed by how technologically forward the planning committee was on utilizing this app.
1. Favorite workshop:
My favorite workshop was not actually the workshops itself, but the connections that I made, and the meetings that I was able to have with people that I have connected online. It was amazing to deepen these relationships and to see how we can make these relationships beneficial.
2. Favorite moment:
My favorite moment was watching the fashion shows! Wow, the music, the clothing, and the whole feel when the fashion shows were going on was amazing! I was so impressed by it, and just absolutely in awe. I walked away completely inspired!
3. Most fun moment:
I loved seeing the Lor Brothers of the Twinjaz! Their story was so inspiring, and the stories of their parents were just so relatable. It was fun to see them on stage having attendees break dance. And of course, when they break danced, it was so much fun to see.
4. My biggest takeaway:
There were so many takeaways and moments of truth that dawned on me while I was there. If I could just parse it down to my number on takeaway, it would have to be that there are help and encouragement from my Hmong brothers and sisters. I had so many great conversations with so many people, and their willingness to help and give. It inspired me to want to also do more and help those around me. My Hmong brothers and sisters are going through the same journey, and I have so much to learn from them!
5. Would I go again?
I would definitely go again! And not only that, but I would want other people to go as well. Who would find it most beneficial? Hmong people in high school and college, as well as professionals! Students for the encouragement and wisdom is thrown down, and professionals for the networking opportunities!
I definitely think the conference as a whole was really well done, and I appreciate all the individuals that made a decision to attend because the people make the conference experience what it is!
-Kaolee