2021-2022 WAFL Program

Graduation | June 4, 2022

On June 4, the WAFL Program concluded the 2021-2022 school year with its graduation ceremony and send-off for our seniors.

During the final session the recipients of the Presidential Volunteer Service Award were announced. This year, the WAFL Program had 21 students who qualified for the PVSA (7 bronze, 1 silver, and 12 gold.) Additionally, KAYF announced the 2022 scholarship awardees. The session concluded with messages from our senior class to their underclassmen. 

Scholarship Awardees

J.P. Morgan:KAYF Scholarship Award | $1,000
Rudy Beauchesne
Joel Kim
Hannah Kim
Dain Anna Ham
William Kim
Yisang Moon
Yun-Seo Lee

Korean American Excellence Award | $500
Lina Kim
Chrissy Jung
Lonnie Moon
Marie Kim

Leading by Example Award | $300
Chae Rin Yang
Olivia Lee
Andrew Park
Joowon Yoon
Alyssa Choi
Janice Lee

Go-Getter Award | $200
Joon Kwon
Hailey Won
Yang Wu
Danielle Yoon
Eugene Park
Jun Choi
Emma Mohanram

Presidential Volunteer Service Award Recipients

Gold
Alyssa Choi
Chrissy Jung
Derrick Kang
Eugene Park
Heewon Moon
Janice Lee
Joon E Kwon
Joshua Lee
Matthew Wooton
Olivia Lee
Sarah Whitney
Yang Wu

Silver
Marie Kim

Bronze
Danielle Yoon
Eugene Seo
Edward Park
Joshua Kim
Lauren Kim
Lina Kim
Seung Hoon Sean Lee

Career Forum | May 14, 2022

On May 14, the Korean American Youth Foundation hosted its annual Career Forum for the WAFL Program.

The Career Forum is a yearly event for our students to meet with Korean Americans working in a variety of professions and to gain insight on potential careers they’d like to pursue after high school. This year’s panel was composed of six professionals from fields ranging from finance to music production. After self-introductions, the students were split into smaller groups for an individualized Q&A with each panel member.

2022 Career Forum Panelists

Student Testimonies

“It made me realize once I'm in a career it’s never too late to change my mind and still be successful even though I started late.” - Ariana, 9th Grade

“I truly enjoyed this Career Forum. I took away some incredible life advice that I will keep with me when I am entering college, the professional world, and beyond. It was extremely inspiring to see and hear Koreans and Korean Americans doing amazing work in a diverse variety of fields. All of the panelists offered honest, raw advice that had our best interest at heart. I cannot wait for next year's career forum! A huge thank you to all the panelists who took the time to speak with us!” - Danielle, 10th Grade

“I really loved this session. It is one of the most useful things for high school students and helped me better understand what to bring and be looking for when I apply for a job. It also helped me tie in my interests and personality type to help me optimize my happiness for my future career and that’s super useful.” - Hannah, 12th Grade

Speech Competition | April 16 and 30, 2022

On April 16 and 30, the Korean American Youth Foundation held its annual WAFL Speech Competition.

The WAFL students were given the opportunity to deliver a 3-4 minute speech on a topic of their choice. They were encouraged to speak on topics that personally interest them. Topics included mental health, Korean American identity, the stress of being a high school student, and the impact of social media on young people. The WAFL students were joined by a judges panel composed of WAFL board members.

2022 Speech Competition Winners

First Place $1,000 - Janice Lee, 9th Grade
On Anti-Asian Hate & potential solutions

“We need to enlighten people of all ages and all races about what’s just and what’s not. [...] These solutions are neither complex nor out of reach. If we all unite, we could solve this issue. Today, we dove deeper into the cause, effect, and solution to asian hate crimes that have swept across the nation. Now the answer is clear; we must take action. Each and every one of us here today has the power to stop this – all it takes is the first step.”

Second Place $500 - Danielle Yoon, 10th Grade
On Being Asian American & Telling Our Stories

“Showing up to the table and catalyzing conversations for change is essential not only for self-acceptance but for showing others there is a platform with stories like theirs. So be loud, be a changemaker, whether it be through writing, art, music, speech – be a creative advocate for your cultural identity.”

Third Place $300 - Kaitlyn Youn, 11th Grade
On Korean American Identity

“I believe it's important to always remember that your own identity is extremely fragile, like a rubber band constantly being held to the point where it’s about to snap. [...] Every human being has their own way of identification and never deserves any judgment of how they identify themselves or who they want to be.”

Fourth Place $200 - Hailey Won, 9th Grade
On Eating Disorders & Body Shaming

“We don’t need to play a part in eating disorder culture, we don’t need to shame people for their eating habits, we don't need to comment on people’s bodies – but we do need our youth. It’s not too late to create accepting communities and to help each other heal. You and I both will make sure of it.”

Fifth Place $100 - Emma Mohanram, 9th Grade
On MisInformation & the Importance of Education

“Despite the endless bounds of the internet, education in this modern day world is needed more than ever. Education trains the mind to think [and] allows your brian to exercise critical thinking. By learning a variety of topics, you may step outside the limits and bounds that are set and can develop your opinions further, creating your own unique way of interpretation. This challenges conventional wisdom and allows different perspectives and innovations to foster within a student.”

Popular Award $100 Amazon Gift Card - Marie Kim, 11th Grade
On the Pros and Cons of Gacha Games

“People should be careful on what game to play. It can be all fun and games until your bank calls to tell you you’ve over drawn your account!”

Speech Writing Workshop | April 2, 2022

On April 2, the WAFL Program held a Speech Writing Workshop for our students as a precursor to the upcoming Speech Competition.

The WAFL students were joined by Jordan Smith, a contributing editor at The New Republic and a former speechwriter for New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio and Comptroller Scott Stringer. During the session, Mr. Smith discussed how to structure a speech and how storytelling can be an effective way to connect with an audience. He also went over the basics of speech delivery, such as voice projection, eye contact, and pacing. The students were also invited to give impromptu speeches introducing themselves to their peers and were given thoughtful feedback by Mr. Smith.

The annual Speech Competition is slated for April 16 and 30. The students will deliver speeches on topics of their choice and compete for cash prizes.

Student Group Presentations | March 5, 2022

On March 5, the WAFL Program had its presentation day for the first-ever student group projects.

Over the course of two months, the WAFL students worked in teams to research and put together a presentation on a topic of their choice. Topics included the importance of Asian American representation in media and education, combating stereotypes, intersectional identities, and notable figures in Korean American history. Some groups included additional components in their presentations, such as an interactive quiz game and a parody music video.

Group Presentation Topics

Asian Representation in Media
Ellen Ko, Joel Kim, Joon Kwon, Lauren Kim, Sam Lee, William Kim

How Asian American Hyperfemininity Affects Men and Women
Anna Beauchesne, Ariana Chong, Derrick Kang, Hailey Won

Asian Stereotypes
Dain Anna Ham, Ellen Lee, Eugene Seo, Kaitlyn Youn, Yang Wu, Yun Seo Lee

Asian American Identities: Who Am I?
Chae Rin Yang, Emma Mohanram, Hope Kim, Lina Kim, Natalie Pak

Koreans in America
Andrew Park, Katie Hong, Lonnie Moon, Marie Kim, Rudy Beauchesne

Being Asian in America: Scapegoating, the LA Riots, and Discrimination Today
Danielle Yoon, Rebekah Yun, Yumi Park

“Perpetual Foreigner”: A History of Asian Alienation
Chrissy Jung, Eddy Kang, Eugene Park, Janice Lee, Sarah Whitney

How Media Has Been Affecting East Asian Americans
Alyssa Choi, Andrew Kim, Hannah Kim

AAPI Curriculums Needed in School for Asian Americans
Eunice Jeon, Daniel Kim, Heewon Moon, Joshua Chong, Olivia Lee

Public Speaking Workshop | February 19, 2022

On February 19, the WAFL Program held a Public Speaking Workshop with New York Speech Coaching.

The WAFL students were joined by Daniel Reece, an instructor from New York Speech Coaching. In preparation for their upcoming presentations, each group presented what they have been working on and were given individual feedback from NYSC on how to improve their public speaking and delivery skills.

Students were tasked with researching and putting together presentations on a topic of their choice. Topics include the importance of positive representation in media on today’s youth, the ways stereotypes affect the perceptions of Asian men versus Asian women, and a deep dive on historical figures of Korean descent. The students are scheduled to present their topics to their peers on March 5.

Student Testimonies

“I liked the feedback that [Daniel] gave to us individually. It will really help us prepare for our presentation and make it the best it can be.” - Hannah, 12th Grade

“I’ve learned to structure my speaking so that it is more of a conversation with the audience. Instead of just talking at [our audience], I need to instead act as if I am talking with them so that it is more engaging.” - Matthew, 9th Grade

“I learned about trying to use less filler words. I also realized it is more impactful to speak concisely and to the point.” - Chrissy, 10th Grade

“One takeaway I have from this session was that more people remember the delivery of the speech rather than the actual words of the speech. This advice really helped me calm down in preparation for speaking and I think I can present more confidently thanks to this.” - Rudy, 12th Grade

Blue Bayou Film Screening | February 5, 2022

On February 5, the WAFL Program had a film screening of Blue Bayou, a film that tells the story of a Korean American adoptee facing deportation and must reckon with his past.

The students watched the film independently while sharing their live commentary using the student Discord server. They discussed the complicated issues around citizenship that some adoptees face in the United States, and the ways that deportation and un-naturalization can impact not only individuals but also entire families.

Blue Bayou is a 2021 film written and directed by Korean American filmmaker Justin Chon. The film premiered at the Cannes Film Festival and has received critical acclaim for its storytelling and shining a light on the plight of adoptees in the United States.

Student Testimonies

“One takeaway is how lucky my family is to have citizenship. I learned new things because deportation was something I heard of but was more distant to me and the film showed how devastating and how unjust deportation is and that there are families who are torn apart by these deportations which is more real to me now.” - Joel, 12th Grade

“It made me think of people who have committed crimes in a different way because some of them, like Antonio, only resort to crime so they can provide for their families, pay necessary fees, etc. It exposed me to the perspective of immigrant adoptees who were brought here when they were infants, but have no control over getting deported.” - Eunice, 10th Grade

“Something I learned from the screening was how much deportation impacts the family and friends of the one who is being deported. It's so cruel and heartbreaking to tear apart a family like that, and I think the film was able to portray that really well. I realized that lots of people who are deported may have lived in America for most of their lives and it is unfair to force them out of the place they call home.” - Lina, 10th Grade

“I loved the last part where the director added real names of people who were adopted and deported years later and it really makes me feel thankful for my parents for being here with me. This movie made me realize that there are people outside of my neighborhood living in difficult situations and because of movies like this, it humbles me ten times more.” - Alyssa, 11th Grade

Yellow Peril & the Model Minority Myth: AAPI History & Unpacking STereotypes | January 8, 2022

On January 8, KAYF kicked off the new year with a session on Yellow Peril and the Model Minority Myth.

The session was led by Program Coordinator Eri Kim, who gave the students a presentation on Asian American history and unpacking stereotypes. Some historical events that were discussed included the Chinese Exclusion Act, Japanese internment, the murder of Vincent Chin, and the Los Angeles Riots. The session also covered the model minority myth and how it is wielded to create divisions between ethnic minorities and communities of color. The students also discussed stereotyping in media representation and how this can be harmful to the way Asian Americans are perceived in the broader society.

Throughout the session, the students engaged in thoughtful discussions where they shared their experiences as Asian Americans and how the model minority myth has affected their lives. They also made connections between historical events and the present day, namely the COVID-19 pandemic and the surge of anti-Asian hate incidents in the 2020s.

The session concluded with announcing student group projects. Over the course of two months, the WAFL students will collaborate to create a presentation on a topic relating to Asian and/or Asian American issues. The students are scheduled to present at a WAFL session on March 5.

Student Testimonies

“I really loved how involved everyone was during the conversational parts. It really allowed everyone to express their nuanced ideas and share their experiences.” - Hannah, 12th Grade

“One thing I learned from this session was the story of Vincent Chin. The fact that I hadn't heard of his name and hearing what had happened to him shocked me. Although it was a tragedy, I'm glad it helped unite people to fight for justice.” - Eunice, 10th Grade

“Something that I took away from the meeting is that every minority group should come together to become one and overthrow white supremacy.” - Daniel, 11th Grade

“I never heard of the yellow peril until this session. This meeting changed my perspective on how asians are not a ‘model minority.’ I think growing up in a mostly Asian-American community kind of sheltered me from these things.” - Katie, 10th Grade

Public Participation & Asian American Political Representation | December 11, 2021

On December 11, KAYF held a session on social issues awareness for the WAFL Program. The topic for this year’s session was Public Participation and Asian American Political Representation.

The students were first joined by New York State Assemblyman Ron Kim, who took questions from the students about his career as a public servant. The questions included what it’s like to be an Asian American elected official, the policies and issues that are important to Assemblyman Kim’s constituents, and the importance of standing up against injustice wherever it occurs.

The Q&A with Assemblyman Kim was followed by a presentation by the MinKwon Center for Community Action on democracy and making our voices heard in the civic process. The discussion, led by Civic Participation Director Sandra Choi, covered an array of topics, from the history of voter suppression to what makes or breaks a healthy democratic society.

STUDENT TESTIMONIES

“I really enjoyed being able to listen to different speakers talk about how I can make an impact in my community as well as what they are striving for as they work to represent and participate as Asian Americans. I also learned of the importance of standing up and representing myself as an Asian American. The session allowed me to realize how much I can do despite my young age.” - Chrissy, 10th Grade

“I learned more about immigration voting and why many people are discouraged to vote. I also learned how a politician does his job and his life. Both sessions made me think of questions which is a skill I am trying to improve on.” - Lauren, 9th Grade

“I was reminded that a program like WAFL is a powerful community against social issues. Every meeting, we not only have learning opportunities, but also the simple ability to connect to other Korean-American students in the country. As a young person used to current communications technology and distanced social media culture, I’ve forgotten how organizations that unite people can be so influential against social issues that they were suppressed throughout history. I need to understand and be thankful for the overlooked unity that programs like WAFL brings.” - Olivia, 11th Grade

“Sandra Choi’s presentation of disenfranchisement not only showed me the current problems with our democracy, but also how those problems are also rooted in deep historical connections as well.” - Derrick, 11th Grade

Student Debate Workshop with the Harvard Debate Council | November 13 and 27, 2021

On November 27, KAYF concluded its two-part Debate Workshop with the Harvard Debate Council for the WAFL Program.

Led by Dr. Tripp Rebrovick of the Harvard Debate Council, the WAFL students worked together in teams to form arguments for the topic, “Humans should colonize space by 2050.” The first session gave an overview of how to structure an argument during a debate and what a debate would look like in a collegiate setting. This was followed by the students collaborating to explore both the pros and cons of the topic. After two weeks of preparations, the students went head-to-head against other teams in a formalized debate. Each round had a judge from the Debate Council, who gave thoughtful criticisms and advice on how to improve their debating skills.

Student Testimonies

“The debates were very engaging as it made me focus on what the opposing team was saying. I learned the importance of flowing (taking notes) and building upon your claims.” - Sam, 12th Grade

“I found out that debate isn’t the exclusive, unachievable, specific intellectual activity that I always imagined, or that it doesn’t have to be. I’m thankful for WAFL for encouraging students, without assumption of experience or inexperience, to engage in a meaningful activity that many would have otherwise left unexplored. I feel in every meeting I can take initiative in my learning without fear, alongside people both like and unlike me.” - Olivia, 11th Grade

“I felt as though my teamwork skills developed significantly and my skills in public debate were expanded upon. It was extremely engaging as I had to be attentive throughout the entire debate in order to not be caught off guard.” - Rudy, 12th Grade

“I really enjoyed being able to collaborate with my peers for the debate. Because we were put into teams, I was able to meet new people and get to know them. We were able to combine our thoughts and ideas into one cohesive product. Additionally, being able to debate with other groups was also very insightful to be able to hear what arguments they came up with.” - Danielle, 10th Grade

Korean Diaspora & Film Screening of Dear Pyongyang | October 23, 2021

On October 23, the Korean American Youth Foundation held a film screening of Dear Pyongyang, a 2005 documentary directed by Yang Yonghi about the Korean diaspora in Japan.

The film follows Director Yang’s personal experience as a second-generation Zainichi Korean whose father was a founding member of Chongryon, a pro-North Korean social and political organization in Japan. In the 1970s, her father sent her three brothers from Japan to live permanently in North Korea. The documentary, spanning ten years, follows the journey of the daughter who was left behind as she struggles to understand why her loving father would destroy his family out of political loyalty to an isolated and enigmatic regime.

Prior to the screening, Program Coordinator Eri Kim gave a historical overview of the Korean diaspora and the Zainichi Korean community. During the screening, the WAFL students gave live commentary about the film in the student group chat. After watching the documentary, the students had a group discussion about the film and reflected on their own experiences as Koreans of the diaspora.

Student Testimonies

“My favorite part of the screening was the ongoing discussions through messages while watching the movie privately. I could be both alone to process my emotions while free to share my thoughts with people I could connect with. It made the remote setting of this year have unexpected memorability, and in a way I felt even closer to my peers.” - Olivia, 11th Grade

“I learned that one's homeland is not defined by where you were born, your nationality, or where your parents were born, but rather it is family that defines your attachment to a country.” - Chrissy, 10th Grade

“I feel like my perspective on North Korean citizens shifted. I felt unconsciously that they were some unsympathetic, ideologically blind people. But after seeing the film, I questioned this perspective. [...] Instead of anger or indifference to the North Korean citizens, I felt empathy.” - Derrick, 11th Grade

“I learned that although your parents and yourself may have different beliefs and ideologies, in the end, the only thing they want for you is the best. I realized that some of the things that my parents have been telling me to do or not to do was all for me, and so that I could have a good, or even a better life than them.” - Lina, 10th Grade

“The film allowed me to see a different perspective of the separation of North and South Korea. In school they only really teach about the modern-day dictatorship in North Korea, but the film gave a different more personal perspective that I found super interesting.” - Emma, 9th Grade

orientation & College Prep Seminar with C2 Education | October 9, 2021

On October 9, the Korean American Youth Foundation had its orientation for the 2021-2022 WAFL Program. 

During the orientation, Program Coordinators Eri Kim and Emily Gaeun Kim discussed the program overview, student conduct policy, and how students can apply for the Presidential Volunteer Service Award. After the students introduced themselves to the class, the orientation was followed by the annual College Prep Seminar with Ed Kim of C2 Education. Ed Kim discussed what students can do to amp up their college applications, what admissions officers look for in potential students, and how students can set themselves apart from other applicants. 

Since 2020, the WAFL Program has been conducted online and is open to Korean American teens nation-wide. This year, 68 students are enrolled in the WAFL Program representing 11 states across the country.

Student Testimonies

“[My favorite part of the seminar was] the speaker’s words of advice in the end. I've attended meetings in the past about colleges, but having someone who is just a generation above me and had more recently gone through college give me advice was definitely better than someone who went through college decades ago.” - Matthew, 9th Grade

“My favorite part of the Seminar was when the students got to ask questions themselves to the speaker. It allowed us to take initiative in our own understanding of an important process.” - Olivia, 11th Grade

“My favorite part was when we were talking about the college essays and how to make ours sound unique. It helped me reflect on what exactly made me different from others.” - Lina, 10th Grade

“My favorite part of the Seminar was the college prep workshop, especially when Ed Kim answered our questions in the most honest and blunt way possible. His words allowed us to open our eyes in the sense that it put into perspective the realities of applying for colleges; he also helped eliminate and clarify certain myths/rumors found online.” - Chae Rin, 11th Grade