Investing in the Future of History: Exploration of Identity in the AI Era
🌟 Event Description
2026 Washington Chinese American History Month Special Event Investing in the Future of History: Exploration of Identity in the AI Era
How does Chinese cultural heritage shape who we are today, and who we can become in an AI era? This special livestream brings together parents, youth, educators, specialists and community leaders to explore how language, culture/heritage, and lived experience strengthen identity, fuel creativity, and empower the next generation.
Through our special interview, lightning talks, and a community roundtable, we’ll connect the past to the present to the future, and discover how every choice we make becomes part of the evolving story of Chinese American history.
👥 Who Are Invited:
Parents & youth interested in cultural identity, language learning, cross-cultural interaction and future‑ready skills
Educators seeking meaningful ways and teaching contents that connect heritage with learning
Professionals in different fields curious about how culture shapes innovation and how to navigate career path
Community members & leaders passionate about community building, Chinese American history and cultural/historic preservation
Anyone exploring identity, belonging, and purpose in a changing world
💡 What to Expect
A powerful opening conversation on heritage, resilience, and the future
Four lightning talks from speakers across tech, education, philanthropy, and student leadership
Real stories about navigating identity, career choices, and community building
A roundtable on how families, educators, and communities can support deeper cultural connections
An invitation to join a new action group shaping the future of overseas Chinese education
🎁 Why You’ll Benefit
Gain fresh insight into how heritage strengthens confidence and creativity
Learn practical ways to support cultural identity at home, in school, at work and in communities
Hear diverse perspectives on thriving in the AI era while staying rooted in who you are
Connect with a growing network committed to history, culture, and the next generation
📅 Event Details
Online Livestream January 18, 2026 | 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM (PT)
Join us for two hours of reflection, storytelling, and forward‑looking conversation and help shape the future of our shared history.
Opening Interview:
The Resilience of Heritage and the Wisdom of the Future
Interviewer: Cheryl Wang
Founder of Centrigrowth, teacher, mentor and coach
Guest Interviewee: Betty Lau
Co-founder Transit Equity for All (TEA), community advocate, educator
Cross-Border Story Lightning Talks：
Aolin Xu
Software Engineer in Tech Company in Seattle, WA
Mo Zhou
Technology Teacher at Eastside Preparatory School
Jasmine Zhu
Program Coordinator in Gates Foundation
Leo Chen
Freshman at Carnegie Mellon University and a student leader passionate about technology and education
Roundtable Discussion:
Moderators: Cheryl Wang from Centrigrowth and Yingying Gao from CLTA-WA
🤝 Initiators and Partners
Initiator: Centrigrowth Cultural Ambassador Lab
Co-Organizers: Centrigrowth and Washington Chinese Language Teachers Association (CLTA-WA)
Community Support: Emerald Parents Association (EmP), Little Masters Club (LMC), United Hub, UCAWA, CLTA-SC, CACA, Washington Association for Language Teaching (WAFLT) and other community organizations