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Welcome to AAPIC NextGen
— where AAPI youth in Sonoma County connect, lead, and create change.
From podcasts that amplify young voices to mentorship programs that open career doors, NextGen is building a community where high school and college students can learn, grow, and celebrate their heritage together. Explore their projects, discover upcoming events, and see how they’re shaping the future.
AAPIC NextGen – Youth-Led, Community-Driven
Empowering the next generation of AAPI leaders in Sonoma County
AAPIC’s NextGen program is a vibrant community of high school and college students in Sonoma County. Since 2024, they’ve connected through monthly meetups, shared meals, leadership projects, and programs that inspire and empower the AAPI community.
🎙 The AAPIC NextGen Podcast
Where youth voices meet community stories
Launched in June 2024, the podcast aims to:
- Spotlight influential AAPI leaders in Sonoma County
- Discuss issues facing AAPI youth — letting listeners know you’re not alone
- Release monthly episodes (30–60 minutes each)
Episodes so far: (click on link to listen)
- Episode 1 – AAPI Teaching in Sonoma County with Stephanie Hsu
Hosts Prasen and Nathan talk with Montgomery High’s Stephanie Hsu about representation in education.
- Episode 2 – AAPI Mental Health with Rita Phetmixay
Hosts Rizka Sela Thomas and Tyler Tao discuss intergenerational trauma and healing with therapist Rita Phetmixay.
🌟 Mentorship Program – Paths to Professions
Helping youth answer: “What do you want to be when you grow up — and how do you get there?”
This free, online mentorship series connects AAPI high school and college students with professionals from a variety of industries. Participants:
- Explore diverse career paths
- Learn directly from working professionals
- Build skills and confidence to reach goals
Upcoming Workshops: (click on link to register)
- Paths to Professions: BUSINESS – Sept 2, 2025
- Paths to Professions: COLLEGE Workshop 1 - Want to Head to an Ivy?– Sept 3, 2025
- Paths to Professions: COLLEGE Workshop 2 – Need Help Choosing a College? Sept 17, 2025
If you are interested, please sign up to be a mentor on this form.
🎉 Past NextGen Events
(Click each event to view the photo gallery/event)
- Lion Dance Workshop – 3/31/25
- Asian Noodle Potluck – 2/22/25
- NextGen Halloween Party – 10/26/24
- Threads of Our Culture Festival – 11/23/24
- September Monthly Meeting – 9/23/24
- NextGen Potluck – 8/24/24
Volunteering Highlights
- Commemorating the Fall of Saigon - 4/30/25
- Author Susan Lieu’s Talk – 4/15/25
- AAPIC/JACL Connect – Sushi Palooza – 10/13/24
- AAPIC Connect – Korean Thanksgiving – 9/21/24
📌 Get Involved
Whether you’re a student, mentor, or community supporter, there’s a place for you in NextGen. (Click below to access)