keynote speaker
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keynote speaker 〰️
Funny Asian Women Kollective
Founded by Naomi Ko, May Lee-Yang, and Saymoukda Duangphouxay Vongsay in 2014, Funny Asian Women Kollective (FAWK) uses comedy to combat the dehumanization and invisibility of Asian women. We're award-winning artists, lauded communityleaders, and ladies who are risking it all for a laugh. We're acreative force transforming how Asian American women are seen, heard, and valued in the Midwest and abroad. Our work makes
space for joy, resistance, and representation — proof that even from the heartland, we can lead movements, tell our own stories, and build something lasting. FAWK has produced comedy supershows at the Ordway and Fitzgerald theaters, collaborated on absurd short films with the Minneapolis Institute of Arts and the Center for Cultural Power, and co-developed a party card game with Mayhem Games called Clapback at Microaggressions.
America. Learn about her art life at www.lazyhmongwoman.com and business life at www.mayhemgames.net.
Saymoukda is a Lao American writer best known for her KUNG FU ZOMBIES play cycle. She's currently a fellow with the Mellon Foundation and Jerome & Camargo Foundations, and a Playwrights Center Core Writer. Recent honors include residencies at the Kennedy Center, Hedgebrook, and Djerassi; and fellowships from Bush, Jerome, and McKnight. www.refugenius.net
Naomi is a Korean American filmmaker, performer, and writer best known for Nice, which premiered at Tribeca Film Festival. Naomi is a 5x Sundance fellow, McKnight and Jerome Hill fellow, and Bush Leadership fellow.
May is a prolific writer of stories, essays, poems, and plays, including the commercial hit, The Korean Drama Addict’s Guide to Losing Your Virginity. May's accolades include awards from the McKnight and Bush foundations, a Sally Award from the Ordway, and a feature in CNN's United Shades of
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Naomi Ko
CO-FOUNDER
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May Lee-Yang
CO-FOUNDER
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Saymoukda Duangphouxay Vongsay
CO-FOUNDER
