The International Leadership Foundation (ILF) Annual Award Dinner was held in Washington D.C. on July 20, 2017. Guests included student interns in the federal government who help with the foundation’s planning, leaders from Asian organizations, government officials, etc. The Honorable Elaine L. Chao, also attended the event with her father, Dr. James S.C. Chao and gave a speech. Secretary Chao told the inspiring life story of Dr. Chao and how he went from China to Taiwan due to the outbreak of civil war, then brought his family to the US and buil his shipping company. She emphasized that America is a nation with ample opportunities. Dr. Chao encouraged the young people that as long as you work hard you will have a bright future.
The honorable Elaine L. Chao, Secretary of Transportation, was the keynote speaker for International Leadership Foundation (ILF) Annual Award Dinner on July 20, 2017. She started her speech with “I am a big fan of ILF”, which excited everyone including this year’s public affairs interns, long term sponsors, consultants & volunteers for the foundation. Unlike previous events where she usually shared her experience in politics and her life, at this event, she focused on her family history and communicated the message from “Fearless Against the Wind” – her father, Dr. James S.C. Chao’s biography.
The Honorable Elaine L. Chao, was the keynote speaker for International Leadership Foundation (ILF) Annual Award Dinner on July 20, 2017. She used her father’s biography “Fearless Against the Wind” as the main theme of her speech and shared with everyone the legendary story of how Dr. Chao started from scratch and realized his American dream. She hoped his story brought everyone hope and inspiration, because 62% of Asian-Americans are immigrants facing immense challenges yet this is a great country where your dreams can come true. There are so many opportunities and with society being so diverse, one should not fear failure and work hard, which you then could be rewarded beyond your imagination. Even though Dr. Chao is almost 90 years old, he still dreams of a better world and hopes to use his unique resources to enhance the US-China relationship and world peace. Secretary Chao praised her father’s courage and believes that he will always remain fearless and dream great dreams
