I was 12 years old when I attended my first AAMA event.  The year was 1984 and I was just a third wheel during my father’s first tenure as AAMA’s president.  I recall a familiar scene that has changed little at AAMA in the past 25 years:  a diverse crowd of business professionals who share a passion for the Pacific Rim, the steady hum of friendly conversation and the frequent exchange of business cards.  I recently learned that when my father applied for U.S. citizenship in 1985, AAMA was proudly listed as one of his affiliated organizations.  Back then, technology was largely a cottage industry and Asian Americans made up a tiny fraction of the business community.

Of course Silicon Valley, Asia and AAMA have changed dramatically since then.  Today, a deep appreciation of Asia is deeply woven into the fabric of Silicon Valley and Asians lead many of the region’s most successful companies.  Led by China and India, Asia shows tremendous promise as the main engine of growth to restore strength to our global economy.  AAMA now has thriving chapters in Beijing and Shanghai, as well as deep roots in rapidly emerging sectors such as alternative energy.

What has not changed at AAMA is our dedication to deliver the highest quality programs focused on the Pacific Rim, and last year’s events showcased the best of AAMA.  We kicked off 2009 with Founder and CEO of Zero2IPO Gavin Ni, who provided a comprehensive review of the Chinese investment market to a sold-out, standing-room only venue.  Nearly two dozen programs followed throughout the year, bringing business leaders from around the world to discuss the latest trends in technology, energy and finance.  Our annual conference, which celebrated AAMA’s 30-year history in Silicon Valley, included keynote addresses from Chairman and CEO of PG&E Peter Darbee, CEO and President of Cadence Design Systems Lip-Bu Tan, CEO of Star China Jack Gao, Founder and Managing Partner of Draper Fisher Jurvetson Tim Draper, and CEO of Innovation Works Dr. Kai-Fu Lee.

As we enter a new decade, AAMA is committed to continuing our tradition of bringing together business leaders who share a common interest in Asia.  We have an exciting slate of activities planned through our Speaker Series, VC-Entrepreneur and Charter Member programs, as well as our annual conference.  This year, we are extending our reach in the alternative energy community through a series of events that highlight the key role that Asia plays in this dynamic market.  Finally, AAMA is launching a Leadership Development program to foster the professional growth of mid-level executives and to provide mentorship to younger professionals.  I encourage you to join AAMA this year as a program director, volunteer, member or sponsor to help us fulfill our valuable mission.

On behalf of AAMA, we deeply appreciate all of the support that the community has offered us in our first 30 years of service.  We thank you for your friendship and look forward to partnering with you for many years to come.

All the best,

David J. Lam

2010 AAMA President
Managing Director of WI Harper Group