Empowering the Future: Jason Chan on Uplifting Communities - AHN Media Group
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January 16, 2025

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“Hustle is more than just work, it is a movement that can change the world,” Jason Chan, Chief of Staff to AT&T President of the West Region and Director of External Affairs. 

Inspired by the hustle, sacrifice, and unwavering determination of his family and the first generation of Asian American immigrants, Jason felt a profound calling to make a difference for his community. This passion led him to a career in government affairs and advocacy, where he focuses on fostering collaboration between government entities, corporations, and organizations to create policies that truly support and uplift the communities they serve.

A Tale of Challenge and Inspiration

“I’ve been inspired by the countless stories of resilience and perseverance within our community,” states Jason. As a member of the Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander (AANHPI) community, he is driven by a deep sense of responsibility to honor the legacy of those who paved the way before him—laying the groundwork for future generations.

Jason emphasizes that success is rarely a linear journey, and challenges are an inevitable part of the process. One of the most significant obstacles in his career has been navigating roles where AANHPIs are underrepresented, particularly in decision-making positions. This lack of representation has required Jason to work even harder to demonstrate his value, advocate for diversity, and ensure that the AANHPI community receives the recognition it deserves. 

What helped Jason overcome these challenges was leaning on a strong network of allies and mentors who believed in his vision and capabilities. He came to see setbacks not as failures but as opportunities for learning, growth, and redefining what’s possible. Jason firmly believes that the key to overcoming hardships lies in surrounding yourself with people who inspire, uplift, and challenge you to reach your fullest potential.

“During my time as Appointments Secretary for then-Mayor Gavin Newsom, it wasn’t always easy to challenge existing systems and push for diverse appointments. But I stayed committed to my belief that representation matters, and over time, those efforts led to tangible changes in the city’s leadership.” Jason exclaims.

The experience further solidified Jason’s conviction in the power of creating spaces for diverse voices and perspectives. It served as a powerful reminder that meaningful change becomes achievable when people unite and collaborate. With this belief at heart, Jason remains dedicated to his mission of uplifting others and dismantling the barriers that hinder progress.

Jason believes that overcoming hardships lies in surrounding yourself with people who inspire, uplift, and challenge you to reach your fullest potential.

Jason believes that overcoming hardships lies in surrounding yourself with people who inspire, uplift, and challenge you to reach your fullest potential.

From Dreams to Success

Jason has achieved numerous milestones, including being named Chairman of both the Asian Pacific American Institute for Congressional Studies (APAICS) and the California Asian Pacific Islander Legislative Caucus Institute (CAPILCI). These prestigious positions highlight his dedication to advocating for the representation and equity of the AANHPI community. Through these roles, Jason has been able to directly influence policies at both the national and state levels while fostering leadership development for the next generation.

In his current role at AT&T, Jason has demonstrated his commitment to supporting the AANHPI and LGBTQ+ communities through strategic partnerships, building strong relationships with stakeholders, and advocating for initiatives and policies that promote diversity and inclusion. His efforts have resulted in stronger connections, increased visibility for underrepresented groups, and meaningful investments in fostering equity and inclusion. However, Jason’s proudest accomplishment lies in the mentorship and guidance he has provided to emerging leaders, helping to shape the next generation of changemakers.

Jason shares with Asian Hustle Network, “Never underestimate the power of your story and the impact you can make. Our journeys, no matter how humble or challenging, hold immense value. They shape who we are and inspire others to dream bigger and aim higher.”

For Jason, the most rewarding achievement of his journey is witnessing the leaders he has mentored make meaningful contributions to their communities and careers. To him, success is not measured by personal accolades but by the impact one has on others and the legacy of opportunities created for future generations.

Success and the Journey Ahead

Jason’s vision is to create pathways that empower individuals to reach their full potential and, in turn, give back to their communities. He is dedicated to uplifting the Asian community by ensuring policies and decisions reflect our stories, perspectives, and needs. Through his work, he hopes to inspire others to take bold steps toward achieving greater representation and making their voices heard.

Jason affirms, “Let’s continue to hustle—not just for our personal ambitions, but for the collective success of our community. Together, we can create a future where every voice is heard, every dream is supported, and every barrier is broken.”

Connect With Jason

Facebook: Jason Chan

Linkedin: Jason C.

Twitter: Jason Chan

Instagram: @jayson326

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Building Tomorrow: How Nan Lin Redefines Homebuilding with 3D Printing 

For Nan Lin, entrepreneurship isn’t just business; it’s freedom. A freedom earned through sacrifice, relentless execution, and a refusal to accept the limits of a broken system. As the founder of Kaizen Capital and 4DIFY, Lin is reimagining the housing industry, tackling its inefficiencies with cutting-edge technology and a bold vision. His mission? To build stronger homes faster, at lower costs, empowering communities and challenging the status quo.

From Immigrant Roots to Visionary Leadership 

Lin’s journey began at age 10, when he immigrated to America with his mother. While adapting to a new country, he was inspired by his loving parents’ sacrifices, which shaped his relentless drive. “I saw the lengths they went to give me a better life,” Lin says. “Their love and dedication became my compass.” Years later, that resolve led to the creation of Kaizen Capital, where he transforms underutilized properties into vibrant housing solutions: ADUs, subdivisions, condo conversions, and luxury short-term rentals. By unlocking hidden value in land, he delivers market-rate and affordable housing that strengthens neighborhoods.

But Lin saw a deeper problem: traditional construction is slow, costly, and vulnerable to fire, pests, and natural disasters. Frustrated by an industry stuck in the past, he founded 4DIFY to lead a new era of construction through 3D-printed concrete homes.

Nan Lin | Founder and Principal of Kaizen Capital and 4DIFY

3D Printing: The Future of Housing, Today

Lin’s vision for 4DIFY was sparked by a frustrating reality: “Wildfires destroy neighborhoods every year, yet we keep building stick-frame homes that burn like kindling,” he says.

After visiting several 3D printer manufacturers, Lin partnered with New York–based SQ4D. It took nearly a year to secure exclusive licensing rights, navigate regulatory hurdles, and obtain building permits, but he got it done.

Now, 4DIFY is building California’s first community of 3D-printed concrete homes. As this article goes live, their first printed home is nearing completion, despite heavy regulations and a steep learning curve. The team is already outperforming traditional timelines and cost benchmarks. The second and third homes will soon print simultaneously, targeting completion in two months, effectively one home per month at under $200 per square foot.

Despite challenges as an Asian immigrant, Lin managed to transform them into motivation and success. 

“We’re aiming to build at half the cost and in a quarter of the time,” Lin says. “That’s not a dream. It’s the direction we’re heading.”

Built with concrete, reinforced with rebar, and topped with metal roofs, these homes are resilient against fire, wind, earthquakes, mold, and pests. They’re also designed for long-term savings, with lower maintenance, less waste, and reduced energy and insurance costs.

“Critics doubted it would work,” Lin reflects. “But seeing is believing. This is the future.”

A Philosophy of Purpose and Resilience

Lin’s journey has been marked by relentless challenges, some seemingly insurmountable. “Obstacles never stop,” he admits. Yet he transforms adversity into opportunity, fueled by a positive mindset, solution-driven focus, and disciplined execution. His trusted team is his backbone. “No one succeeds alone,” he says. “My team turns the impossible into reality.” This resilience shapes his leadership, blending bold vision with purposeful action to create opportunities, particularly for communities long excluded from wealth-building. “Housing isn’t just a product,” Lin says. “It’s a platform for empowerment.”

Recognition and Inspiration

Lin’s impact is gaining notice. The Sacramento Bee named him one of the Top 20 AAPI Change Makers, and he was honored in the Business Elite Awards’ 40 Under 40. But for Lin, the real reward is inspiring others. “I want to show the next generation of Asian entrepreneurs what’s possible when we claim our seat at the table,” he says.

Lin wants to create opportunities for those marginalized by elevating the future of construction, making it more accessible for his community.

Join the Housing Revolution

Nan Lin isn’t just building homes, he’s redefining what’s possible. Through Kaizen Capital and 4DIFY, he’s creating a future where housing is affordable, resilient, and sustainable. Follow his journey and see the revolution unfold.

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