Built for Us, Because I Needed It Too

Hi, I’m Michelle, the founding mother of Asian Connections Hub. I grew up in Wisconsin, where winters were spent skiing and snowboarding—two passions that have been a big part of my life. As the middle child in my family, I learned early on how to navigate different perspectives and bring people together, a skill that has shaped both my personal journey and my work in building a strong, connected community.

When I was younger, learning never came as easily to me as it did for the other kids in my class. Vietnamese was my first language, and because of that, I struggled to keep up in school. I learned at a slower pace, processed information differently, and often felt like I was falling behind.

In elementary school, I had designated times where I was pulled aside to work with a special education teacher who helped me with math, reading, and other subjects. As I progressed into middle school, I had to request accommodations for extra time on tests and always required additional help to grasp certain concepts. By high school, I relied on the Learning Resource Center, where special education teachers worked with me one-on-one, ensuring I had the support I needed to succeed. It was a scheduled part of my school day—a necessary space for me to learn at my own pace without feeling left behind.

It wasn’t until later in life that I began to understand why learning had always been a challenge for me. I discovered my ADHD, my neurodivergence, and the impact that mental health had on my education and career. These realizations opened my eyes to how many other individuals like me existed—people who struggled not because they lacked intelligence or effort, but because traditional learning environments weren’t built with them in mind.

This realization inspired me to create Asian Connections Hub. I wanted to build a community where people—especially those from Asian backgrounds—could connect, find resources, and support one another in their educational and professional journeys. I knew firsthand how isolating it could feel to struggle in silence, and I wanted to ensure that others didn’t have to navigate their challenges alone.

Through Asian Connections Hub, we foster a space where learning differences, mental health, and career struggles are acknowledged and supported. Our mission is to uplift and empower individuals by providing resources, mentorship, and a strong sense of community. No one should feel like they are alone in their journey, and I hope that this platform continues to be a guiding light for those who need it most.