Our story
Our story began with a few shared questions, and grew through many shared journeys.
What became most evident was the need to share these stories with others
In our careers, we have faced challenges and successes that have shaped who we are both professionally and personally. It was inspiring to hear these stories and to meet women in senior positions from various industries.
But what became most evident was the need to share these stories with others – the knowledge and experience we have accumulated throughout our careers – in order to help not only our own, but future generations in their professional development.
It was early spring 2014 when this journey began.
We had the privilege of meeting with four fellow Korean women from various professions. In our encounter, we shared our life experiences: education, career paths, families, values and philosophies.
Although from different walks of life, we quickly realized that we shared similar backgrounds, raised by parents who had a common desire for their daughters.
That is,
to be strong (but not ‘too aggressive’), to be honest (but not ‘too opinionated’), and to carefully choose a ‘successful’ career path in the eyes of our parents and the Korean-Canadian community (in other words, their friends).
I can’t help but think how different it might have been if an organization like KPWA had existed when I was just starting out.
The challenge growing up, however, was that some of the traditional ‘successful’ careers were not necessarily what we may have wanted to pursue and the others were somewhat elusive. And while at a young age we may have been aware of the many industries that existed, we didn’t have a wide network, nor did we know how to pursue all the brilliant opportunities that were out there for us.
We all agreed that our community was in need of an organization to empower, inspire, mentor, lead and nurture young professionals. And there are other associations that provide networking opportunities,
But, there is still a gap.
We had the privilege of meeting with four fellow Korean women from various professions. In our encounter, we shared our life experiences: education, career paths, families, values and philosophies.
Our desire is to build an organization to help professional career development through mentorship and leadership programs, as well as civic and community engagement – to fill that gap.
This was the humble beginning of the Korean Professional Women's Association(KPWA).
This is just the beginning.
We have planted a seed that we are nurturing to grow and evolve into a larger institution that will cater to the needs of the people within our community.
As we continue this journey together,
We look forward to supporting women and men across generations.
What began as a small group of four women has grown into a community shaped by listening, shared values, and diverse experiences.
Today, it continues as a space for mentorship, leadership, and professional growth.
Do you have any questions?
Reach out to us about membership, programs, or events—we’re happy to help.