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Chef Jeremy Pang’s journey into the world of cooking took an unexpected turn from his childhood aversion to food. In his early years, he confessed that he had a distaste for meals.
However, his life took an exciting turn when his family relocated to Singapore, exposing him to open-air food markets, where culinary artisans specialized in single dishes. This experience transformed his perspective, igniting a passion for Asian cuisine that would shape his career.
The pandemic prompted a shift in Pang’s family dynamic, leading him to cook with his son and discover his preferences. Through this shared experience, they explored crafting homemade pizzas and flapjacks. This is when they found out that his son really likes the flavors of Chinese food, like light and tasty dishes with fish and crispy veggies.
An advocate of the Asian tradition of feasting, Pang believes that sharing multiple dishes is integral to the dining experience. This philosophy, deeply ingrained in his approach to cooking, led him to create “Simple Family Feasts,” a guide designed to make the concept accessible to all.
Central to Pang’s culinary finesse is his artful balancing act of flavors and textures. He highlights the significance of contrast – harmonizing crispy and tender, soft and resilient, while incorporating fresh vegetables or quick-fried selections. This balance is the key to an unforgettable dining experience.
Featured Image Source: SBS
- 2 min read
Stories
JFERRER is a talented Creative Director from Southern California. His journey began in high school when he discovered his love for film. Little did he know that this passion would lead him to an incredible path of self-discovery and empowerment.
It was in college that JFERRER embraced his cultural heritage as a Filipino American, realizing the significance of being Asian in shaping his identity. Despite facing doubts from others, he remained determined to pursue his dreams. This led him to create a documentary titled “DO WHAT I WANT,” shining a spotlight on the incredible work of young Asian creatives.
Now, JFERRER is gearing up for his next mission with “DO WHAT I WANT: SPIN OFF EDITION,” focusing on up-and-coming Asian American DJs in Southern California. Join us as we delve deeper into his story and his mission through an insightful interview with Asian Hustle Network.
THE ARTISTIC VOYAGE OF JFERRER
The world of music has been a constant inspiration for me. When I listen to a song, my mind instinctively creates music video scenes that synchronize perfectly with each beat. I knew that I had to make these vivid visions into reality and on the screen. I started taking clips of videos and putting them into music and created a whole new vibe and energy for the song. It was exciting to help people experience the song in a whole new way.
As my passion for storytelling through visuals grew, so did the scope of my aspirations. Beyond music videos, I became interested in capturing and celebrating diverse narratives and talent. This interest and experience took on a life of its own and I became involved with crafting and managing live events tailored specifically for emerging creatives.
These events became platforms for budding talents to shine, fostering a community of artistic expression and collaboration. I realize that creativity knows no bounds and I want to unleash it and inspire others to find their own creative gifts.
THE IMPACT OF HIS CULTURAL UPBRINGING ON HIS CREATIVE DIRECTION
I grew up in a Filipino American family. Throughout my life, I’ve been fortunate to be surrounded by creative family members and friends. Knowing the immense talent and gifts of Asian Americans around me, yet seeing the simple, one-dimensional portrayals of Asian/Asian American characters in movies and television was disappointing.
I want to showcase the rich diversity and talents of Asian Americans and promote positive and authentic representation.
BREAKING BOUNDARIES WITH “DO WHAT I WANT”
Asian Americans do not rely on their creative side to make money. If we wanted financial stability, we would typically look at careers in the medical field, business, or engineering, right? Creative energy would just be reserved for hobbies. But why can’t it be our full-time career? That’s what I wanted to challenge in “Do What I Want”. I wanted to break free from the stereotypes and challenge the notion that you can’t be successful doing something creative and fun.
I believe in eliminating the fear of pursuing our passions and going against the grain. We have the power to choose our own paths and find immense success in doing what we love. This is the essence of the documentary I want to create – to shine a light on a community of like-minded individuals who have shattered barriers and defied expectations.
In this documentary, we will meet incredible artists, each driven by their unique passions and determined to leave their mark on the creative world. They stand as living examples of why this project exists – to showcase Asian creatives who fearlessly pursued their dreams, despite parental and societal pressures.
The title “DO WHAT I WANT” embodies the spirit of this documentary, as each person featured chose to follow their heart’s desires. They rejected the notion that their career should be dictated by others and, instead, embraced their true calling. This is a celebration of those who broke free from the confines of societal expectations and carved out their own path to success.
NAVIGATING CHALLENGES AND SEIZING OPPORTUNITIES AS A YOUNG CREATIVE
In the realm of young creatives today, networking their art stands as a paramount challenge. Excelling in their craft is undoubtedly crucial, yet without the ability to effectively brand their work and themselves, opportunities for exposure may be limited.
Embracing the significance of self-branding, however, holds the key to unlocking a broader audience and creating a multitude of opportunities that lie ahead. So, dare to showcase your true potential, and let your art shine brightly in the vast sea of possibilities. Together, your creativity and strategic branding will pave the way for a remarkable journey of growth and success. Keep believing in yourself, and the world will undoubtedly take notice of your inspiring creations.
A MESSAGE OF EMPOWERMENT FOR ASIAN AMERICAN ARTISTS THROUGH DO WHAT I WANT
I believe that “DO WHAT I WANT” has the power to ignite a flame of empowerment within the Asian and Asian American communities. It serves as a reminder for individuals to embrace their authenticity and follow their true passions, refusing to conform to societal norms or the cookie-cutter lifestyle. I envision a wave of inspiration, encouraging people to break free from limiting beliefs and embrace the unique paths that await them.
“DO WHAT I WANT” carries a profound significance for Asian American youth. As they witness the success and creativity of these artists, they can find a sense of connection and envision their own future selves achieving greatness. The documentary not only inspires confidence but also fosters a sense of community and unity among Asian Americans, reminding them that they too, can embrace their dreams and make a lasting impact in the world.
INSIGHTS AND ADVICE FROM JFERRER
Throughout my creative journey, the most valuable lesson I’ve learned is the importance of letting go of seeking validation from others. Happiness cannot be solely dependent on the approval of others. While I appreciate and consider the professional opinions of others when it comes to my work, I firmly believe that I must retain ownership of my decisions. Embracing this mindset empowers me to stay true to my vision and creative expression, paving the way for genuine fulfillment and growth.
By freeing myself from the need for constant validation, I can embark on a path driven by authenticity and self-belief. This newfound sense of independence fuels my creativity and allows me to push boundaries without being confined by external expectations. As I continue to evolve creatively, I welcome constructive feedback and embrace the opportunities to learn and grow, but I will always hold firm to my convictions, knowing that the true essence of my work lies within my passion and dedication to making a meaningful impact.
CONNECT WITH JFERRER
Instagram: @itsjferrer
- 6 min read
News
At the age of 18, Aziza Aznizan embarked on a remarkable journey that would shape her life’s mission and inspire meaningful change. Today, she stands as a model, a PhD student, and the co-founder of Paint The World Malaysia, a non-governmental organization (NGO) committed to supporting marginalized communities.
Born and raised in Sarawak, Malaysia, Aziza’s early experiences in diverse environments fueled her desire to create a more inclusive world. Despite being a minority in her Chinese-stream private secondary school, and later as one of the few Muslims at the United World College Atlantic (UWC Atlantic) in the UK, Aziza used these situations to cultivate friendships across nationalities and ethnicities.
However, Aziza’s journey was not without challenges. During her stay in the UK and the US, she faced anti-Muslim sentiment, experiencing hurtful incidents due to her hijab. Rather than succumbing to negativity, she chose to channel her experiences into raising awareness about her culture and religion. Aziza firmly believes that greater inclusivity fosters understanding among different races, religions, backgrounds, and values.
In 2015, Aziza and fellow students founded Paint The World, advocating for inclusivity and youth empowerment. Aziza established the local branch in Malaysia, focusing on creating a supportive community for underprivileged youth. Support from Malaysian ministers and community leaders bolstered the organization’s growth.
Paint The World Malaysia’s projects have included language courses for Rohingya refugees and the United World Academy, an educational platform for disadvantaged youths. Aziza’s education in International Relations and International Law equipped her to navigate challenges and advocate effectively.
Featured Image Source: New Strait Times
- 2 min read
News
Rising from the bustling streets of Asia, a new wave of young eco-champions is shaping the world of green business. One of these changemakers is Samuel Tecuala, a student from the Philippines studying in the UK.
Tecuala realized that coconuts could do more than make tasty treats—they could also help the environment. Back home, he noticed that lots of people were lactose intolerant, which means they can’t drink regular milk. So, he started a company called Dehusk, which makes coconut milk that’s good for people and the planet.
This isn’t just one person’s effort. According to Study International, a survey found that almost everyone in Asia is willing to spend more money on products that are kind to the Earth. Around 40% of people want to buy things that don’t hurt the environment in the next few years. In fact, Asians care as much about the environment as folks in the Western world, and they’re extra concerned about things that are good for their health.
This change in attitude comes after the pandemic showed us how much we depend on a healthy planet. During lockdowns, places like New Delhi and Mumbai saw less air pollution. This made people pay more attention to living sustainably, which means using less energy and creating less waste.
Schools, like the EHL Hospitality Business School in Switzerland and Singapore, are teaching students how to make the world cleaner and better. They’re showing that even small actions, like not wasting things, can add up to a big difference.
People all over Asia are joining the green movement, and schools are teaching students how to keep the Earth healthy. This is a good reminder that even small steps can lead to a big change.
Featured Image Source: Dehusk
- 2 min read