Congratulations to Shally Wong, Founder of Asia Trend, on receiving the 2026 Social Justice Award from Shakthi US in recognition of more than 22 years of dedicated service to the Central Florida community.
Shally has been known for her tireless efforts to bring people together, foster collaboration across different ethnicities and cultures, and create opportunities for communities to connect, learn from one another, and support one another. She is grateful for the opportunity to continue her passion for public service as the first Asian American Special Assistant to Orange County Mayor Jerry L. Demings, serving throughout both terms of his administration.
Throughout her community work, Shally has believed strongly in the importance of using our own voices and telling our own stories. She encourages communities to be organized, united, and willing to advocate for themselves rather than allowing others to define their experiences or speak on their behalf.
In accepting the award, Shally shared her appreciation for the many community leaders, organizations, volunteers, and friends who have joined her along the way. She also emphasized that meaningful change happens when we build bridges, create partnerships, and invite others to become part of the solution.
She concluded her speech by sharing one of her favorite quotes from the late Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg:
“Fight for the things that you care about, but do it in a way that will lead others to join you.”
The evening was especially meaningful because it celebrated the important mission of Shakthi US, a Central Florida nonprofit dedicated to empowering survivors of domestic and intimate partner violence, with a particular focus on the South Asian community. Founded in Florida in 2018, Shakthi’s mission is to provide education, empowerment, culturally sensitive resources, and support to help individuals and families break the cycle of violence and build safe, independent lives.
Shakthi understands that survivors from immigrant and culturally diverse communities can face unique barriers when seeking help, including language differences, cultural expectations, financial dependence, immigration concerns, transportation challenges, and fear of losing family or community support. Through culturally responsive programs and partnerships, Shakthi works to ensure that survivors know they are not alone and that help is available.
This year’s Shakthi US Gala brought together a sold-out crowd and raised $40,000 to support essential programs, including emergency housing, legal assistance, survivor support, and the Driving for Independence initiative. The evening featured powerful survivor stories, community solidarity, meaningful conversations, and a shared commitment to creating safer and stronger families.
Shakthi’s Driving for Independence program is particularly meaningful because transportation can be a critical step toward independence. Helping survivors obtain a driver’s license and reliable mobility can open doors to employment, healthcare, education, childcare, and other essential services.
A heartfelt thank you to the entire Shakthi US Board of Directors, Emcees Yog Melwani and Keith Landry, volunteers, sponsors, donors, advocates, and everyone who made this inspiring evening possible. Your commitment to standing with survivors and advocating for vulnerable members of our community makes a lasting difference.
Congratulations to all of the honorees, and thank you to Shakthi US for recognizing community service while continuing its life-changing work throughout Central Florida.
Together, we can use our voices, build bridges, uplift one another, and create a stronger and more compassionate community.
Learn more about Shakthi US and its life-changing work: Shakthi US
