A: My journey began in 2004 in finance and commercial mortgage-backed securities (CMBS), where I built a foundation in hospitality as an asset class through underwriting and analysis. Witnessing the industry navigate the Great Recession and later the COVID pandemic taught me the importance of resilience and strategic planning. I then moved into commercial real estate banking, where I connected deeply with clients who shared my cultural background and entrepreneurial spirit. Many had built their families’ foundational wealth through hospitality investments, which inspired me to become more than just a financier—I wanted to be an active participant. This realization led to my ownership of flagged hotels and the founding of Harborview Capital Group.

Q: What’s the best advice you’ve ever received?
A: Focus on your strengths and surround yourself with people who complement your weaknesses. This mindset has created a multiplier effect in my life and career. When everyone operates in their zone of excellence, the collective output exceeds what any individual could achieve alone, allowing us to achieve ambitious goals with greater efficiency.

Q: Is there a book or piece of media that’s shaped your professional outlook?
A: The Intelligent Investor by Benjamin Graham fundamentally influenced my approach to hospitality real estate investment. Graham’s value investing principles—especially the concept of a “margin of safety”—guide how I assess acquisitions and manage risk, particularly in the face of market volatility. I also follow Hotel News Now and the “Hotel Investor” podcast to stay current on trends and market dynamics, blending timeless investment wisdom with real-time industry insights.

Q: If you could accomplish anything, what would it be?
A: I want to elevate both the hospitality industry and the Asian American business community. My vision includes setting new benchmarks for sustainable investment practices and mentoring the next generation of hospitality entrepreneurs, particularly those from underrepresented communities. I want to create lasting pathways for success and ensure that twenty years from now, Asian American representation in hospitality leadership is significantly stronger, with the industry operating at higher standards of excellence.

Q: What’s your favorite part of being an AAHOA Ambassador?
A: The ability to create meaningful impact. Being an Ambassador offers access to a network of driven industry leaders and technology partners that help advance our businesses. More importantly, it gives me a platform to mentor others, share capital markets expertise, and open doors that might otherwise remain closed, enabling fellow entrepreneurs to achieve—and surpass—their goals.

Q: What are your personal or business goals for the future?
A: Beyond expanding my own portfolio, I’m committed to leveraging Harborview Capital Group to create a multiplier effect in the industry. By sharing knowledge, capital markets expertise, and strategic partnerships, I hope to remove barriers for others and collectively raise the standards and opportunities in hospitality. For me, true success will always be measured by the leaders we help develop and the lasting impact we create together.