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From Japanese American Traditions to National Philanthropy: Meet Kirstie Matsushima
As we celebrate Asian Pacific Islander Month, we are proud to spotlight Kirstie Matsushima. A Japanese American event strategist, cultural advocate, and community builder hailing from Colorado, Kirstie brings her passion to her role as the National Director of Philanthropy for Alpha Phi Gamma, an Asian-interest sorority dedicated to service and sisterhood.
Tell us about your journey.
My journey has been a blend of identity, purpose, and reinvention. I grew up in Colorado, where I was fortunate to be surrounded by a strong Japanese American community. That early exposure to culture, tradition, and shared heritage shaped the foundation of how I see the world—with a deep sense of responsibility, pride, and connection.
In college, I found my voice through an Asian-interest sorority—a space where identity and leadership intersected. That experience sparked a lifelong commitment to inclusion and cultural advocacy. Today, I’m honored to serve on our sorority’s national board as the Director of Philanthropy, where I help guide our mission and support a new generation of change-makers.
Professionally, I’ve spent the last decade building meaningful experiences through events. I’ve worked with mission-driven organizations across sectors—from the Recording Academy to UCLA—designing events that foster belonging, amplify impact, and center community. My work has spanned everything from large-scale conferences and high-profile galas to internal employee engagement and cultural programming.
At the heart of it all is my belief that events are more than logistics—they’re an opportunity to tell a story, build trust, and create moments that matter. My goal has always been to lead with intention, elevate underrepresented voices, and leave spaces better than I found them.
What pivotal experiences shaped your current path?
One of the earliest turning points in my journey came during college, when I joined an Asian-interest sorority. It was the first time I felt surrounded by women who not only looked like me, but who were leading, organizing, and showing up with pride and purpose. That experience sparked a lifelong dedication to advocacy and cultural visibility—and taught me that community isn’t just something you find; it’s something you help build.
But the most defining shift came in 2020. Like many, I was navigating the uncertainty of the pandemic while trying to maintain a sense of normalcy at work. In the midst of it all, I experienced deep burnout—and then the unexpected loss of my father. That period changed everything. It forced me to slow down, reevaluate what mattered most, and confront the ways I had deprioritized my own well-being in service of achievement.
From that point on, I became much more intentional—not just in how I lead and work, but in how I live. I began aligning my career with purpose, choosing projects and organizations that reflect my values, and making space for rest, healing, and self-care as non-negotiables. That clarity continues to guide every decision I make.
What are the most valuable lessons you've learned about yourself through your life and career?
One of the most valuable lessons I’ve learned is that I’m allowed to grow and evolve—even if that means letting go of who I thought I had to be. For much of my life, I was driven by perfectionism and a need to prove myself. But over time, I’ve realized that real leadership comes from self-awareness, not self-sacrifice. It’s okay to pivot, to shift directions, and to redefine success on your own terms.
I’ve also learned the importance of honoring my own well-being. I used to wear busyness as a badge of honor—saying yes to everything and pushing through exhaustion. But that pace wasn’t sustainable. Now, I’m learning to choose a slower, healthier life—one that prioritizes rest, boundaries, and alignment. Slowing down has helped me show up more fully, more creatively, and more intentionally—not just for others, but for myself.
What drives your desire to contribute and make a difference?
I believe in the power of creating meaningful experiences—and when done with intention, they can shape how people see themselves, each other, and the world. What drives me is the possibility of making a positive impact, no matter how big or small. That belief has guided me throughout my career, especially in the world of events.
I’ve seen firsthand how a well-designed gathering can build connection, spark joy, or inspire action. It’s in the details—the way a space feels, the stories that are shared, the sense of care behind the planning. That’s where transformation happens. I’m driven by the idea that every touchpoint is an opportunity to uplift others, to create belonging, and to move us all a little closer to a better, more inclusive world.
If you could go back and advise your younger self, what would it be?
Don’t shrink to fit. Your culture, creativity, and compassion are not things to tone down—they are your edge. I’d tell her that the qualities that make her different will one day become the foundation of her strength.
I’d also remind her that success isn’t just about climbing ladders—it’s about building bridges. And sometimes, the most courageous thing you can do is step off the expected path and follow your own. There is power in being true to yourself, even when the world tries to pull you in other directions.
How can GlobalMindED support leaders like yourself in achieving your goals and advancing your aspirations?
One of the most powerful things GlobalMindED can do is invest in leadership development at every stage of our careers. As we grow, our needs shift—and having access to continued learning, skill-building, and real-world development opportunities helps us continue leading with confidence and impact.
Equally important is access to mentorship. Seeing and learning from leaders who share our lived experiences helps us envision what’s possible and navigate challenges with a greater sense of belonging.
And finally, visibility matters. Platforms like this remind us that our voices and stories are powerful. When we're seen, supported, and celebrated, we don’t just grow as individuals—we help shift the systems around us.
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