AMM BOARD OF DIRECTORS

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Elizabeth Yang is the founder of Asian Minds Matter, a dedicated family attorney, elected official serving Monterey Park, and an author passionate about strengthening relationships and emotional wellbeing. Her advocacy for mental health awareness stems from her personal experience with the loss of her father to suicide and the subsequent silence around it—a painful experience that revealed how stigma can compound grief when mental health struggles remain unspoken. This journey profoundly shaped her commitment to transparency, resilience, and compassionate communication, which she emphasizes both in her professional work and her book, "Stress-Free Divorce." Elizabeth finds joy and rejuvenation in salsa dancing, embracing its energy and rhythm as a form of self-care. 

Draco Guan is a photographer and storyteller committed to bridging cultural divides through visual narratives. His initial connection to Monterey Park came through documenting the community's healing journey after the 2023 Lunar New Year Shooting, but soon transformed into something deeply personal. Through sharing meals, celebrating festivals and quiet moments with community members, Draco discovered the profound value of human connection in healing. At Asian Minds Matter, he fosters open dialogues about mental health, using his art to transcend language and generational barriers. Away from his camera, Draco finds peace brewing tea, a calming ritual he often shares with elders and friends alike. 

Emily Wu Truong is a Medi-Cal Certified Peer Support Specialist and vibrant mental health advocate known for her powerful storytelling and active community presence. Drawing courage from her own lived experiences as a psychiatric and trauma survivor, Emily openly shares her journey to inspire resilience, challenge stigma, and foster spaces for community healing. Her advocacy thrives on creativity, empathy, and meaningful dialogue. Emily finds solace and expression through various art forms, particularly in arranging flowers and creating visual arts, which serve as therapeutic practices that nurture her spirit and bring beauty into her life 

Kanako Martz is a certified hypnotherapist and advocate for workplace wellness, dedicated to promoting positive psychology and the power of mind-body connection. Her philosophy centers on how our physical environments profoundly influence our internal mindsets and peace. Kanako believes in the deep interconnection between external spaces and mental wellbeing—that by creating harmonious surroundings, we can transform our thought patterns and emotional states. This philosophical approach guides her work in championing supportive, balanced workplaces as essential foundations for holistic health. Residing in Torrance, when she's not at her corporate job, Kanako enjoys dog sitting and finds it a grounding activity that connects her with simple joys. 

Charlie Chen contributes administrative support, project management, and graphic design skills to Asian Minds Matter while bringing personal commitment to mental health advocacy following the loss of a close friend to suicide. His organizational abilities help AMM operate efficiently, ensuring initiatives move from concept to completion. Chen's background in personal development strengthens the organization's approach to helping individuals recognize their inherent value beyond external metrics of success. 

Betty Wang brings valuable personal insight to AMM, having successfully navigated anxiety and depression in her youth through treatment and family support. As a real estate broker with extensive connections throughout San Gabriel Valley, Wang identifies community needs and develops strategic partnerships that expand AMM's reach. Her experience connecting people with properties translates effectively to connecting community members with vital mental health resources. Wang maintains her own mental wellness through consistent physical exercise and structured routines, demonstrating practical approaches to integrating mental health practices into daily life.