Delicora celebrates Asian American Pacific Islander Month collaborating with AAPI founders and creators. Check out Lea Chen's story highlighted in our #MyAsianAmericanVoice blog. 

Lea Chen

Occupation: Social Media Marketer in Tech by Day, Asian American Advocacy Entrepreneur by Night
Heritage: Chinese-American
My Story: Growing up in a town that was predominantly Asian, I actually hated being Chinese when I was a kid -- feeling like people dismissed me as "just another Asian girl." But not only did I feel I was dismissed, I also felt my interests -- in fashion, dance, design -- where dismissed as they weren't the expected doctor-lawyer-engineer path. Years later I came to appreciate my Asian American heritage in a new light after meeting a handful of diverse AAPI individuals who accepted me for me. But this was only the start of my journey to Asian American advocacy.

With the rise in anti-Asian hate crimes during the pandemic, I wanted to help others be loud in their pride around their identity, something I had now found but never understood as a child, while rewriting stereotypes from our authentic perspectives. And AA BATTERIES was born.

I am proud to be the founder of AA BATTERIES, an apparel brand designed for & by Asian Americans, that aims to improve representASIAN. Whether it's dressing the next generation or fellow AAPI adults at social justice rallies, AA BATTERIES has helped to amplify our community's voice, an honor I am forever grateful for.

Favorite Asian Snack Brands: Sanzo (Asian American-founded sparkling water) when I'm thirsty, good ol Pocky when I want something sweet, and Shin Ramen Black when I want something savory (with 2 eggs of course!)
Favorite Asian Fashion Brands: KkCo, Prabal Gurung, Chunks, AA BATTERIES (shameless plug, self love everyone!)
Favorite Asian Beauty Brands: ManiMe
Favorite Delicora Made for Jade Piece: Hao Jade Tier Huggies