Tina Cheung
Tina is a first generation Chinese American and was the first in her family to go to college. She started her career in community organizing within San Francisco’s Chinatown and after several years, she connected the dots between community, technology, and diversity, equity, and inclusion work to become a global talent program manager at Visa today. Alongside Tina’s 15 years of professional work, she is also heavily involved with volunteer groups in and out of the workplace, and sits on the board of several non-profits. What an honor that Tina agreed to be on the show!
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Highlights from the Interview
Audrey: To kick us off on Women Just Like You, what did you want to be when you were a kid?
Tina Cheung: As a child, I was really fascinated by pharmacology. I think my interest was sparked by the multiplication table toy my grandmother bought for me. I loved pressing its buttons and solving the problems. It made me feel connected to math and science early on. However, when I took a pharmaceuticals class in college, I realized it required a level of rote memorization that didn't align with my strengths or bring me joy.
Audrey: Which class was it that changed your mind?
Tina Cheung: It was a nursing class focused on pharmaceuticals. It overwhelmed me with the amount of information I needed to memorize, and that was a turning point for me. It made me reflect on what truly makes me happy and how I want to spend my professional life.
Audrey: So, pharmacy wasn't your path. Can you share more about your actual career journey?
Tina Cheung: Absolutely. My career has been quite eclectic, spanning nonprofit work in community development and affordable housing, to more recent roles in technology and corporate sectors. Throughout, I've been passionate about building community and fostering inclusion and diversity. This path has allowed me to create impactful programs and initiatives that really focus on human-centric work, which is deeply rewarding to me.
Audrey: That sounds incredibly fulfilling. Transitioning a bit, could you discuss your early career working in community organizing in San Francisco's Chinatown, especially as a young woman of color?
Tina Cheung: That phase of my career was pivotal. Despite the challenges, I found strength in the community of women of color who were also on the front lines. We shared a sense of sisterhood and solidarity, which was empowering. Navigating the political landscape, I learned invaluable lessons about policy development and the importance of having a seat at the table, which has influenced my approach to advocacy and organizing.
Audrey: It seems like those experiences really shaped you. Can you recall a specific instance where you felt the power of that sisterhood in action?
Tina Cheung: One vivid memory is from my time organizing tenant rights campaigns. The most successful campaigns were those that transcended neighborhood boundaries and brought diverse groups together. It was about building relationships and bridging gaps, often in settings that extended well beyond the typical nine-to-five workday. These experiences not only fostered deep personal connections but also underscored the collective power of community action.
Audrey: It’s inspiring to hear how those collective efforts played out. Switching gears a bit, you mentioned your transition into the corporate world. How have your nonprofit experiences influenced your current work in diversity and inclusion?
Tina Cheung: My nonprofit background has been instrumental in shaping my approach to corporate diversity and inclusion efforts. It taught me the importance of understanding people’s stories and backgrounds, which I carry into my role in corporate America. Whether it’s through employee resource groups or diversity initiatives, I aim to create environments where everyone feels valued and heard, which is a direct continuation of my community organizing principles.
Audrey: Lastly, any advice or a favorite saying that keeps you motivated?
Tina Cheung: A personal mantra I hold dear is, "A no is just a not now." It reminds me that rejection or a setback is temporary and not a definitive end. This perspective has helped me maintain resilience and optimism, even when faced with challenges. It encourages persistence and the belief that with time and effort, opportunities will open up.