Dallas, TX — Against The Grain Productions is proud to announce the Designer Line-up and Emcees for its 10th (and final) Fashion for a Passion presented by Audi Dallas charity event, which takes place Saturday, September 22nd, 2018 at sixty five hundred located at 6500 Cedar Springs Road in Dallas. Fashion for a Passion has become significant as a place to discover talent, serving as a launchpad for Asian American designers such as Khanh Nguyen of Nha Khanh and Jerry Matthews of Nine Muses, who have all gone on to notable fashion careers. This year’s Presenting Designers range in focus from childrenswear to contemporary and evening wear. Each has created a brand recognized locally and internationally. The event line-up will also include a “retrospective scene” that honors designers from the past decade of FFAP shows for their years of support.
As one of Dallas’ hottest fashion tickets and fall charity events, the evening has made its name as a platform that showcases emerging Asian American artists and musical performers. “We achieved so much in a decade and have a lot for which to be grateful. For this milestone celebration, we decided to shake things up,” said President/Co-Founder Tammy Nguyen Lee. “We wanted to pay homage to our roots, celebrate our achievements as an organization and those who have helped us get there and also look toward the future to where ATG is evolving.”
To make this landmark show come together in a fresh way, Tammy tapped the talents of Shadia Lee, a protégé of runway guru Jan Strimple. Said Shadia, “We hope to honor the growth and transformation of FFAP, a decade of supportive hands and hearts for bringing the dreams of so many children to fruition and to deliver an unforgettable show.”
In addition to our traditional runway event, ATG will present the first ever Groundbreaker Awards to Quynh Chau Stone, Daniel Eng and Khanh Nguyen, three individuals who embody the spirit of ATG – “excellence in your chosen career path, leadership to pave the way for others, a servant’s heart to help and improve the lives of those around us and sharing ATG’s vision of ‘One Voice. Many Stories.'”
The evening begins with a reception of tasty bites from Chef Uno Immanivong (Chino Chinatown/Red Stix) and cocktails where guests can sip and enjoy musical entertainment, a silent auction/raffle, featured artwork, a retrospective show of past designers and concludes with a fashion show and live auction.
Proceeds from the evening’s ticket sales, silent, art and live auctions as well as support from generous sponsors benefit ATG’s supported orphanages and underprivileged children in Asia, scholarships for student artists and leaders and community outreach programs in the U.S. to inspire, educate and entertain the community.
General Admission and VIP Reserved Tickets range from $75 to $150 and will be on sale now at www.AgainstTheGrainProductions.com/events/ffap. Sponsorships are currently available by emailing fundraising@againstthegrainproductions.com.
Introducing the 2018 FFAP Presenting Designers:
Theresa Pham | TP Mini Me
A Houston-based fashion designer, Theresa Pham graduated from St. Thomas University started her career in the Oil and Gas industry. Although she always wanted to become a fashion designer, when times were tough on her parents, she decided to pursue a more financially stable route. Upon graduating with a Bachelor’s degree in Liberal Arts, she immediately obtained a job in the accounting arena where she furthered her education with two additional Masters degrees (Finance & Accounting) while quickly rising through the ranks. It was through her various promotions that Pham had the opportunity to experience every facet of Finance & Accounting and business in general.
It was only several years ago where the first iteration of Theresa Pham Designs was born, initially focusing on womenswear. While working her Corporate job, she spent all of her free time sketching, learning, designing, pattern making and sewing together garments she wasn’t able to find in stores. As a young woman, she was drawn to feminine silhouettes and pursued her dream of creating something she could share with the world. But life always has a funny way of working out — she soon discovered she was expecting her first child — and suddenly, life became a little less about the right blouse and more about growing her family. She decided to put designing on hold.
Fast forward four years later, Theresa is now a mother of two princesses — Loghan and Ava — with the support of her husband Shaw. Now, more than ever, she feels empowered to pick up right where she left off. She always knew motherhood was not going to keep her from reaching her goals, but rather, arm her with even more skills to bring her dream to life.
Today, inspired by her two fun-loving daughters, she just knew what was next — TP Mini-Me. With roots still firmly in creating quality clothes, Theresa is now solely focused on designing a coordinated mother / daughter collection. She believes that style and fashion shouldn’t stop after motherhood and she’s not letting it. In her Mommy and Me collection what you wear, so can your daughter. It’s a special bond that, she believes, is inherently understood only by a mother and her daughter.
Since the launch of her TP Mini-Me collection last September, Theresa has experienced a rapidly growing fan base which includes notable singers and reality TV stars. Theresa has recently resigned from Corporate America to focus on running her design business while continuing to draw inspiration from spending more time with her girls.
What does it mean to go ‘Against The Grain?’
“When I think about going ‘Against The Grain,’ and particularly with respect to the Asian culture, I think it’s about pushing boundaries and not in a rebellious way, but more in a way of wanting to be able to express and embrace an interest or passion other than the “typical norm.”
Why is it important to you to be part of this charity event?
“THIS is where I belong – to a community of Asian American Artists, boldly living their dreams, while making a positive impact in the community and giving back to those less fortunate. It’s everything that I stand for! I’m honored to be a part of this charity event; To promote the arts while supporting underprivileged children is win-win in my book.”
Shirin Askari | Askari
Shirin Askari is a Dallas based designer and owner of ASKARI. She learned how to sew at an early age and over the years a hobby of making her own clothing turned into a career path. Shortly after graduating with a fashion design degree, Shirin was invited to be on the sixth season of Project Runway. Her clothing collection – ASKARI – is a contemporary line which embraces effortless silhouettes, mixed with bold colors and artistic prints. ASKARI can be found in over 150 boutiques and online at AskariCollection.com
What does it mean to go ‘Against The Grain?’
“”Going Against The Grain’ to me means to be true to yourself by following your own path because there is only one of each of us in this world. We all have gifts and talents to contribute and it is so important to use those gifts to help others.”
“I have always had a immense love for children. My mother was a teacher for many years, and growing up, I would volunteer in her classes. So much of who we are is set in motion as a child. The support that Against The Grain provides for these children in need is truly immeasurable, so I feel blessed to be a part of the event this year!”
Against The Grain is honored to partner with The Betty Reiter Boutique to present the work of two globally known Asian designers carried in her store, Yeohlee and Liesang Bong.
Yeohlee
Yeohlee Teng moved to New York from Malaysia to study fashion at the Parsons School of Design. She has worked primarily in New York City and established her own house, YEOHLEE inc in 1981.
Yeohlee believes that “clothes have magic.” She dresses the “urban nomad,” a term she coined for her Fall 1997 collection, defining a lifestyle that requires clothing that works on a variety of practical and psychological levels. She is a master of design management and believes in the efficiency of year-round, seasonless clothes.
Yeohlee’s designs have earned a permanent place in the Costume Collection at the Metropolitan Museum of Art, where the late Richard Martin, then Chief Curator, called her “one of the most ingenious makers of clothing today.”
Lie Sangbong
Lie Sangbong is one of Korea’s preeminent fashion designers, a master craftsman and artist who is internationally recognized for his architectural collections that celebrate and enhance the body. Since founding his eponymous brand, LIE SANGBONG, in 1985 Mr. Lie continues to blend traditional influences and innovative techniques, allowing his work to resonate with audiences around the world. Believing that fashion is where art and industry converge, he combines diverse influences including: Korean poetry, calligraphy and architecture, Cubism, Bauhaus design, 1930’s Film Noir heroines, and the natural world. Garment construction is approached from an architectural perspective; silhouettes are built out from Bauhaus-influenced geometric shapes. Mr. Lie also produces unique ‘tech’ fabrics for each of his collections. Intricate techniques, like laser cutting, embroidery and digital printing, are applied to natural fabrics, used alone and in combination with one another.
Lie Sangbong began his career by creating couture garments for private clients at his atelier in Seoul. In 1993, he presented his first ready-to-wear collection, “The Reincarnation,” during Seoul Fashion Week. He quickly gained favor among Korean celebrities and the press; in 1999 he received the ‘Designer of the Year’ Award from the mayor of Seoul.
Wanting to expand the brand’s business into Europe, Lie Sangbong began to show during Paris Fashion Week in 2002. As the notoriety of Mr. Lie’s collections continued to grow, he participated in several collaborative projects. In 2007, he created the Cyon Shine Mobile Phone by LIE SANGBONG with LG Electronics. One of the first limited-edition cell phones to be designed by a fashion designer, it features a modernized pattern of Hangul characters etched into the casing. Continuing his exploration of Hangul characters, he also designed several porcelain pieces with Haengnam Porcelain Company which later became part of the permanent collection at the Victoria & Albert Museum in London. Among his numerous other accomplishments, he has also created uniforms for the A1 Grand Prix Korean national team (2008) and designed an exhibit to celebrate the first anniversary of the Korean Cultural Center in London, later displayed in Trafalgar Square (2009).
Lie Sangbong has continued to expand its international business and, after 12 years of showing in Paris, the collection celebrated its New York Fashion Week debut with the Fall-Winter 2014 collection. Lie Sangbong continues to receive critical acclaim and has been featured in publications including: Vogue, Vanity Fair, W, The New York Times, Le Figaro, The Telegraph, Elle and Harper’s Bazaar. Mr. Lie has dressed notable women such as Korea’s First Lady, Beyoncé, Rihanna, Lady Gaga, Rosario Dawson, Kelly Rowland and Juliette Binoche. An influential artistic and cultural figure in Korea, he currently acts as the president of CFDK (Council of Fashion Designers of KOREA) and a cultural Ambassador for the City of Seoul.
About the Betty Reiter Boutique
Betty Reiter’s 25-year-old namesake boutique is nestled in Preston Center East and boasts a bright red door that marks the spot for clients all over the country. Betty is a native of Paris, France and was influenced early on by her father, who was a sought-after fashion and wedding photographer in Paris. Her merchandise includes an exclusive variety of international brands. She carries designers Yeohlee and Lie Sangbong — the former, a crisp and masterfully constructed line out of New York, and the latter, an artistic line out of Korea that quickly gained recognition in Asia and soon after, international acclaim. These two designers are in good company at Betty’s, found side by side with coveted European lines such as Annette Gortz, Ter et Bantine, Pascal Millet, Dusan and several other luxury European designers. She also carries handbags and fine costume jewelry (including a large selection of clip earrings). Her love of texture and fabrication, along with her eye for design and unique silhouettes, are evident in her always-changing inventory. Betty and her staff pride themselves on going above and beyond the call of retail duty to ensure not only the satisfaction of their customers, but their comfort and trust as well.
What does it mean to go ‘Against The Grain?’
“While it is important to remember and honor that we are part of the world around us, it is important to retain our individuality. i feel that going “Against The grain” gives respect to recognizing our own story, and enables us to find strength and be courageous in our jouney. To go ‘against the grain’ is finding your own way through the chaos, it is an exercise in flexibility, and yet, the ability to be confident in your own vision. “
Why is it important to you to be part of this charity event?
“I believe that we are all part of a global community. I believe that it is our responsibility as human beings to be kind and have compassion, that we are all responsible for each other. It is wonderful to be involved in an event that promotes this compassion in its outreach to orphans and underprivileged children around the world.”
Khanh Nguyen | Nha Khanh
Khanh Nguyen, Co-Founder and Creative Director of the Nha Khanh label, has been surrounded by fashion and art throughout her life. Khanh attended the University of North Texas and obtained a bachelor’s degree in Fine Arts in Fashion Design where she received numerous awards. In January 2010, the Nha Khanh label was established producing seasonal Ready-to-Wear lines, as well as, custom Atelier service to the public. Designs and manufacturing are 100% based in Dallas, Texas, while the sales and marketing PR are based in New York City. The Nha Khanh line can be found in stores like Saks Fifth Avenue, Neiman Marcus, Stanley Karshak, Rent-the-Runway and many others around the United States. Nha Khanh’s designs have been worn by Kim Kardashian, Brooklyn Decker, Guliana Rancic, and Kelly Osbourne, to name a few. Nha Khanh has been recognized through various awards and articles written by organizations such as FGI Rising Star, D Magazine Best Woman Custom Design, Harper’s Bazaar, People, Vogue, Teen Magazine, US Weekly, Glamour, InStyle, ENews and Style Network. The company takes pride in exceptionally well-made garments and strives to push the envelope on innovation and creative, elegant designs.Nha Khanh’s designs focus on modern glamour; they are inspired by art, architecture and, most importantly, nature. The designs are ethereal, meticulously constructed and host an ease about them that allows for an effortless sensibility. The company offers seasonal “advanced contemporary” Ready-to-Wear, a custom Atelier collection (which hosts one-of-a-kind custom pieces) and a bridal line.
The Nha Khanh mission is to empower women with inner-strength through their clothing while focusing on “feminine elegance with a modern edge.” “Nha,” in Vietnamese, is a feminine word implying‘ light and elegance’, whereas “Khanh” is a masculine word, meaning ‘victory and celebration’. The fusion of the words creates a balance of unison between feminine and masculine. The collection joins lightness and softness of silhouette and fabrication with the celebration ofconstruction and classic forms. This is the fundamental philosophy and creative driving force behind the Nha Khanh label.
For her work, vision and commitment to the community, ATG will honor Khanh with a Groundbreaker Award.
What does it mean to go ‘Against The Grain?’
“Taking the road less traveled and stubbornly refusing to fit in and live life on your own terms.”
Why is it important to you to be part of this charity event?
“The Nha Khanh mission is to empower women, but it also means we must empower the children, as they are the future of the world. We all have a role to continuing growth, spreading our knowledge and uniting within our community. We have been involved with ATG since the beginning, as it’s a special organization to us, because it is supporting the Asian arts community, and the donation funds help with the orphanages.”
Introducing the 2018 FFAP Retrospective Designers:
Joanne Hong | Jolynn kids
Joanne Hong is a Taiwanese American contemporary childrenswear designer based in NYC. She is 34 and was born and raised in Stillwater, OK. She moved to NYC over 6 years ago to pursue her passion in fashion. While interning and working for big design houses such as DKNY, Marchesa, and Tahari, she quickly gained experience, fueling her drive to launch her own line, Jolynn kids, in 2014. The Jolynn kids brand is inspired by trends in the high-end womenswear industry and then designed for the little fashionista.
Jolynn kids consists of sweet, feminine, and sophisticated dresses and separates for girls between the ages of 2 and 12 years old. It is a versatile line that can be worn on play dates, outings with the parents, and special occasions. In Jolynn kids, a girl can feel girly and youthful, yet still stay on trend with the fashionable “grown ups”. Every design has a special twist that makes a statement — whether through luxe fabrics, precious details, or sweet silhouettes. In her most recent collection, she has added chic mother-daughter looks!
Joanne blogged on ElleGirl, writing about her life as an emerging designer and her collections have been featured during Oklahoma Fashion Week. Aside from Jolynn kids, she has a quickly growing custom special occasion business in both children and womenswear and also helps consult other designers helping them launch their own brand. Through her designs, she hopes to inspire others to pursue their dreams.
What does it mean to go ‘Against The Grain?’
“To go “Against The Grain” is following your dreams despite if it’s the ‘traditional’ path or not. Choosing to stand up for what you believe in, fight for what you’re passionate about, listening to your heart and do what you love. “
Why is it important to you to be part of this charity event?
“I’m honored to be able to contribute to ATG and humbled to know that I’m helping making a difference in children’s lives. This organization has been so supportive in my career, and I’m so thrilled to be able to give back through my designs and what I love to do.”
Cac Lam | Cacdemode Swim
Cac Lam is a young fashion designer who graduated from the Art Institute of Dallas. With a passion to travel around the world and explore, the fascinating experiences from faraway lands inspired Cac to come up with her collections and Cacdemode Swim.
All her journeys to Africa, Europe, America, Middle East and Asia inspired her collections with designs that are bold, yet very practical – a perfect combination of nature, human and art.
Cac founded Cacdemode Co (preferred as Cacdemode Swim) a full fashion house and premium retail company in the heart of Saigon (HCMC), Vietnam in 2014.
Designed for confident women that live by their own rules, Cacdemode Swim is more than just swimwear. It is about having a playful and sexy attitude that drives a transformative experience. She brings the creative fantasy to life with intricate designs and sleek cutouts that work together to delicately frame and powerfully enhance the beauty of the feminine body.
What does it mean to go ‘Against The Grain?’
“Going ‘Against The Grain’ is a journey of discovering and believing in your own gifts. It means using the talents that you have to help make this world a more colorful and happy place. Going against the grain means finding your own way and doing things in a more creative way. It is about you making your journey in your own way.”
Why is it important to you to be part of this charity event?
“Eight years ago was my first time with ATG. I am happy to say that the event was the turning point for me to get involved in the world of charity. I felt empowered to be part of something that was helping people. This eventually inspired me to start my own charity organization in 2016 named Seam The World, which uses the art of fashion to support less fortunate children and women around the world. It is my honor to be a part of ATG this year again.”
Nikki Duong Koenig | Cykochik
Nikki Duong Koenig is the Founder/President of Cykochik (ˈsīkō CHik) Custom Handbags, an internationally awarded, cruelty-free vegan handbag company she founded in 2003 while a student at Southern Methodist University’s Meadows School of the Arts in Dallas, Texas. Upon graduating in 2005, Nikki launched her career in corporate marketing as an art director/creative director over a decade ago, all the while growing Cykochik part-time. She has worked in New York City and Dallas with Fortune 500 companies, including American Express, AT&T, Bank of America, Barneys New York, Hilton Worldwide, Hewlett Packard and many other global brands.
In 2013, Nikki decided to leave the corporate world to focus 100% of her time to growing her social enterprises, Cykochik Custom Handbags and NiKo Creative, and to dedicating herself to activism and philanthropic causes for animal and human rights, and the environment. She also successfully raised over $10,000 on the crowdfunding site Kickstarter to launch the Cykochik 10 Year Anniversary Collection. Within a year, PETA (People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals) honored Cykochik with their coveted “Compassionate Business Award” for being an “exceptional cruelty-free company”; and Nikki became the first Texas fashion/accessories designer to collaborate on a handbags collection with PETA for the Cykochik Causes Collection.
Nikki lives and advocates a compassionate vegan lifestyle for all living beings through Cykochik and her activism work with animal welfare organizations PETA (People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals), The Humane Society of the United States, The Humane League and Farm Sanctuary. She has been a part of ATG Against The Grain Productions since 2010 and has served as Director of Marketing/PR and Vice President. Currently, she is a member of the International Rescue Committee’s Gen R(escue), The Dallas Women’s Foundation Orchid Giving Circle and serves on the board of directors of non-profit Trans.lation Vickery Meadow, helping to cultivate the arts and culture of underserved minority (refugee) communities in Dallas.
When Nikki is not “working,” she enjoys volunteering, practicing yoga and meditation, playing tennis, painting/drawing, reading, cooking, traveling and spending as much time as possible with her husband and rescued dog, Mochi.
What does it mean to go ‘Against The Grain?’
“It’s a state-of-mind, being able to trust/follow my instincts and not second-guessing myself, despite external obstacles or influences.”
Why is it important to you to be part of this charity event?
“It’s bitter sweet to be a part of the 10th and final FFAP, since I became a part of ATG as a presenting designer in 2010, 2013 and 2016. It brings it full-circle for me having also served on the board and as an ambassador since 2010.”
Danh Ta
“As a designer I’ve always loved the concept of pure imagination becoming a real product,” explains Danh Ta. “Having the ability to make a woman look and feel beautiful, I believe is a wonderful gift. I hope to express my collection in a way that the audience can have an emotional connection.”
The Danh Ta collection is a Dallas-based womenswear label that seamlessly transitions from day to night. Since debuting his Ready-to-Wear collection in 2012 in Dallas, Danh has been dedicated to making clothes that are beautifully crafted down to the very detail. With the focus on couture-quality craftsmanship, every piece in the Danh Ta collection is meticulously constructed in the heart of downtown Dallas.
Danh’s humble beginnings taught him the value of creativity in life. Life began in Bangkok, Thailand for Danh. Living in a refugee camp, Danh witnessed his parents use their artistic talent to sustain their family and eventually allowing them to immigrate to the United States. Years after working in his mother’s tailor shop in Oklahoma City, Danh moved to Texas and graduated from the premier fashion design program at the Art Institute of Dallas.
During his time in school, Danh cultivated his skill and conceptualized his designs for fashion brands such as EXPRESS, Forever 21, Fossil, and J.C. Penney. After working in the fashion industry for several years, Danh’s passion for designing grew and he decided it was time to launch his own clothing label.
What does it mean to go ‘Against The Grain?’
“For me, it means pursuing something that you truly believe in and love. ”
Why is it important to you to be part of this charity event?
“It means a lot to me personally and professionally. I’ve been a presenting designer for several years and, to be invited back for their final showcase – I wouldn’t miss it for the world.”
Ann Hoang
Ann Hoang is a fashion designer specializing in celebrity and red carpet fashion. As a Texas’ Next Top Designer Finalist, Ann Hoang’s collection was named “Most Classic” by Top Trendsetter International. Ann was named a finalist in the nationwide Belk Designer Showcase competition.
What does it mean to go ‘Against The Grain?’
“To me, going ‘Against The Grain’ means to step outside of your comfort zone, challenge yourself, and take risks in order to progress.”
Why is it important to you to be part of this charity event?
“As an Asian American, it is meaningful for me to be a part of this charity to give a platform to and shine a light on the vibrant Asian American community.”
Jerry Matthews | Nine Muses
Nine Muses is a Dallas based women’s luxury label founded in 2013, by designers Jerry Matthews and Francesca Viamonte. The duo met while studying at The Art Institute of Dallas where they collaborated on independent projects. The two later developed a desire to create their own custom design business which led to their first collection.
The label’s name came about by the duo being inspired by the goddess of clarification and memory, Mnemosyne and her nine children: the Nine Muses. Additionally, every season, the duo chooses nine muses that serve as inspiration for their collection.
Nine Muses Collection focuses on luxury women’s sports wear and evening wear while incorporating high quality craftsmanship, unique design details and an effortless sense of sophistication. Design inspiration is drawn from contemporary art, iconic women in history and various genres of music combined with an emphasis on tailoring and contrasting proportions. The Nine Muses Collection customer is bold, sophisticated, fashion-forward and tasteful, while maintaining a balance of simplicity and edge.
What does it mean to go ‘Against The Grain?’
“For me, to go ‘ Against The Grain’ means to do something outside of what is expected of you. And for me, that’s been a running theme throughout my whole life. It’s part of being true to yourself, which is a major key to happiness and success.”
Why is it important to you to be part of this charity event?
“Being a part of this charity event is very special to me, because I see the ATG team as family. I started doing this show when I was fresh out of college, and it’s a cause I truly believe in. This event is such a fun and amazing event that allows support to emerging artists, while also giving back to an awesome cause.”
Introducing the 2018 FFAP Emcees:
Hilary Kennedy
Hilary Kennedy is an Emmy Award winning TV host from nationally syndicated morning shows, “Eye Opener” and “Morning Dose,” and is a contributor to The Country Network. She has appeared on Access Hollywood, Extra, The Rachel Ray Show and published her first book, Career Diary of a TV Host: 30 Days on the Job. Outside the TV studio, she is a style blogger and tennis player. She is married to Jeff Hoferer and they have two slightly crazy chihuahuas.
What am I looking forward to the most, and why is this cause important to me?
“What I’m looking forward to most this year is seeing the incredible display of generosity and kindness that is at every FFAP, but only on an even larger scale! With this being the tenth year, I am excited to see both old and new faces come together to raise money and awareness for the underpriviledged, as well as support Asian American artists who are doing BIG things! I love being a part of FFAP, because last year’s event really touched my heart; so many people gave so generously of their money and time. This year will be even bigger and more wonderful, and I am thrilled to be involved. (Plus, who wouldn’t want to spend an evening hanging out with Tammy Nguyen Lee and Ben Smithee?!)”
Ben Smithee
Ben Smithee‘s first long-term stint, at the young age of 23, led him to create one of the earliest and most respected Millennial-focused insights and intelligence firms, where he served as CEO until he exited in 2014. After a brief withdraw he fell of the wagon and launched The Smithee Group which focuses on helping brands strategically succeed in the age of digital everything. His clients include some of the largest and most well-known companies around the world including Coca-Cola, McDonald’s, Comcast, Del Monte, EA Games, Disney, General Mills, Kroger, VF Corp, Sterling Jewelers, Rio Tinto, and many more.
He has spoken to audiences around the world closing in on 20 countries, across 6 continents. He’s regarded as a go-to expert in Digital Marketing, the future of retail, and the Millennial Consumer segment. He’s the recipient of the American Marketing Association’s Marketer of the Year Award, and has been nominated as one of the the Top 10 Youth Marketers in the US. Ben has hosted top-rated TV segments on WFAA’s Good Morning Texas, and The Broadcast.
While he loves helping businesses succeed and out-perform their competition, he is even more passionate about the work he does with The Warren Center in Dallas, which helps families and their children that have developmental delays, and his work with the Big Brothers Big Sisters Organization where he currently resides, in New York City.
Ben currently serves on the Board of Directors for the Women’s Jewelry Association and the Big Brothers Big Sisters Young Professionals Committee in NYC.
What am I looking forward to, and why is this cause important to me?
“I’m excited to be back again this year for a very special FFAP Anniversary! The show is one the absolute highlights of my year, and I am honored to emcee it again with the wonderfully-talented Hilary Kennedy.
The money raised for the scholarships and projects ATG completes is inspiring and important. The fashion is always out of this world, and I hear we even have a FFAP veteran favorite coming back this year!!! Don’t miss it! Come have fun with us!!”
Allyn Hoang
“‘Going Against The Grain’ means to feel the fear and do it anyway — no one who has done anything extraordinary has done less. To shine a light on and embrace my fellow AAPIs is one of the most meaningful and fulfilling callings. Celebrating Asian American creators all while raising funds to help orphanages and underprivileged children in Asia is a win-win. My family and I came from nothing… and that is something I will never forget. Because of our experience, we try to do what we can to help others who need it.”
About ATG Against The Grain Productions, Inc.
ATG Against The Grain Productions, a Dallas-based 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, promotes Asian American cultural awareness through compelling media projects and raises funds for international orphanages and underprivileged children. In addition to hosting outreach events, it also awards annual scholarships to exemplary Asian American student artists and leaders. ATG produced the feature documentary, Operation Babylift: The Lost Children of Vietnam, which has screened at more than a dozen film festivals nationwide and received the Audience Choice Award for Best Feature Film at the Vietnamese International Film Festival and the Documentary Audience Choice Award from the Philadelphia Asian American Film Festival. For more information, visit www.AgainstTheGrainProductions.com or www.TheBabylift.com.
#ATGProds #FFAP2018 #beCAUSE
www.AgainstTheGrainProductions.com/Events/FFAP
