CELEBRATING AAPI ENTREPRENEURSHIP
This month, we’re celebrating resilience, creativity, and cultural heritage. We’re spotlighting AAPI entrepreneurs who are making waves in beauty, wellness, and beyond—turning their stories into movements that uplift their communities. Know someone who should be featured or want to share your own journey? Send us a message on Instagram @highonfeminism!
Ada is the founder of Erleia, an earth-friendly skincare brand rooted in sustainability, self-care, and real, effective solutions.
Her journey with Erleia began in 2020 while caregiving for her late father. During that time, her own self-care took a backseat, and her skin reflected the stress and exhaustion she felt. Searching for plastic-free, natural skincare that truly worked, she came up empty—so she decided to create it herself.
With a commitment to sustainability, inclusivity, and high-performance skincare, Ada has built Erleia into more than just a brand; it’s a movement toward mindful, earth-conscious beauty. As Erleia continues to grow, she remains dedicated to helping people care for themselves in a way that’s both nourishing and sustainable.
Follow Erleia and connect with Ada Chen!
2. Rose wong, Founder of Kolohe
Rose Wong is the founder of Kolohe, a handmade jewelry boutique that goes beyond aesthetics—it’s an experience, a story, and a testament to resilience.
What started as a personal challenge has evolved into a thriving brand, proving that even the hardest struggles can transform into something beautiful. At just 21, she opened her first store in Waikiki in partnership with the Alohilani Resort, a milestone that was quickly followed by a second flagship location at Waikiki Beach Walk. Recognized as Student Entrepreneur of the Year by both the Pacific Asian Center for Entrepreneurship (2018) and the Hawaii Venture Capital Association (2019), she has also won numerous awards in business competitions and been featured in prestigious publications like Hawaii Business Magazine and Ka Wai Ola Magazine.
Beyond the accolades, what drives her is purpose—leading by example for her younger siblings as the first in her family of 12 to attend college. She will also be working towards receiving her GIA Graduate Jeweler certification this year!