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The Asian American Foundation's New Storytelling Initiative

In an inspiring move to highlight and preserve the rich yet often overlooked histories of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders (AAPI), The Asian American Foundation (TAAF) has launched the TAAF Asian+American Storytelling Initiative. This initiative invites creatives from across the nation to engage in storytelling that emphasizes vital aspects of AAPI contributions to American history.

What is the Storytelling Initiative?

The Asian+American Storytelling Initiative is a grant and mentorship program designed to support original narratives focusing on AAPI figures, communities, and significant moments in U.S. history that have typically been left in the shadows. It aims to amplify these stories through various visual media, enabling filmmakers, podcasters, animators, and other creatives to weave narratives that resonate with their audiences.

Selected participants will receive a grant ranging from $5,000 to $10,000, providing the necessary support to bring their visions to life. In addition to financial backing, successful applicants will have access to mentorship from a distinguished panel that includes industry professionals such as Emmy-winning journalists, a prominent filmmaker nominated for an Oscar, and other content creators leading the charge in cultural representation.

The Need for AAPI Representation

Research by TAAF has highlighted a troubling gap in the general public's understanding of AAPI communities. Most people derive their knowledge from mainstream media—often skewed—leading to misrepresentation and a lack of personal connections with AAPIs. This initiative seeks to address such gaps by harnessing the power of storytelling as a tool for fostering understanding, acceptance, and a sense of belonging among the over 25 million AAPIs living in the United States.

TAAF has previously engaged in advocacy through digital series like The United States of Asian+America, which shares the pioneering tales of AAPI individuals shaping various industries and societal trends. The new initiative expands upon this effort, aiming to create a community-powered movement that not only captures overlooked narratives but also cultivates a greater appreciation for the diverse fabric of American society.

Who Can Apply?

TAAF is calling on a wide range of creatives to participate in this initiative. The application process welcomes filmmakers, journalists, artists, podcasters, and digital creators. This inclusive approach encourages submissions that highlight significant AAPI figures or movements, fostering a deeper appreciation for their contributions to American culture and society.

The Mentorship Program

Selected storytellers will not only receive a grant but will also engage in one-on-one mentorship sessions with members of TAAF's selection committee. This committee includes notable figures such as:

• - Juju Chang — Co-Anchor of ABC News' Nightline, Emmy-winning journalist.
• - Michelle Khare — Renowned content creator and host of the docuseries Challenge Accepted.
• - Dana Ledoux Miller — Writer/Director from Disney's Moana 2.
• - Lisa Ling — Emmy-winning journalist and host of CNN's This Is Life.
• - Philip Wang — Content creator and co-founder of Wong Fu Productions.
• - Sean Wang — Oscar-nominated director for Nǎi Nai Wài Pó.

This mentorship will serve as a valuable opportunity for up-and-coming storytellers to refine their narrative skills and gain insights from experienced creators.

How to Get Involved

The application window for this initiative runs from September 16 through October 7, 2026. Interested creatives can apply by submitting a proposal detailing the AAPI narrative they wish to tell. Once the applications are reviewed, selected storytellers will be announced on November 2, 2026. The initiative promises to be a significant step towards ensuring that AAPI stories are not just told, but celebrated in the fabric of American culture.

For more information about the application process and TAAF's commitment to amplifying AAPI voices, visit asianplusamerican.org.

About TAAF

Founded in 2021, The Asian American Foundation was established as a response to the increasing incidents of anti-Asian hate and the longstanding underrepresentation of AAPI communities in various sectors. Their mission encompasses promoting safety, advancing prosperity, and fostering a sense of belonging for AAPI individuals across the nation. Through initiatives such as this storytelling program, TAAF is dedicated to building a more inclusive narrative that reflects the diverse experiences and contributions of AAPIs in America.