12th Annual Policy Summit: Exploring Science-Based Approaches to Tobacco Harm Reduction
Thursday, November 13 | 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM | UC Student and Policy Center
The California Asian Pacific Chamber of Commerce invites you to join us for the 12th Annual Policy Summit, where policymakers, health experts, and industry leaders will gather to discuss one of today’s most complex and pressing public health topics: tobacco and nicotine harm reduction.
This year’s focus, Science, Regulation, and the Future of Harm Reduction, will explore how evidence-based strategies and regulatory frameworks can shape effective harm-reduction policy. With other nations embracing risk-reduction models, this conversation will examine how California can pursue balanced, data-driven solutions that both protect public health and encourage innovation and economic stability.
Featured Panelists
Assemblymember Stephanie Nguyen | Assembly District 10
Elected in 2022 as the first AAPI woman legislator representing the Sacramento region, Assemblymember Stephanie Nguyen brings a deep commitment to advancing equity and access for all Californians. A former Executive Director of Asian Resources, Inc. and past Elk Grove City Councilmember, Nguyen’s legislative work focuses on community empowerment, child care affordability, and social services for underserved populations.
In the current legislative session, she has championed key budget wins, including $30 million for Special Olympics California and $60 million for California Food Banks. She serves on several key Assembly Committees and as Vice Chair of the AAPI Legislative Caucus.
Assemblymember Joe Patterson | Assembly District 5
Representing Placer and El Dorado Counties, Assemblymember Joe Patterson was elected in 2022 following his service as a Rocklin City Councilmember and Mayor. A small business owner and lifelong Californian, Patterson brings both public- and private-sector experience to his role in the Legislature.
He is passionate about building a strong business climate and protecting local communities—grounded in practical leadership that supports families and small businesses across his district.
Dr. Pritika Kumar | Philip Morris International
Dr. Pritika Kumar is a public health scientist with over 25 years of experience in harm reduction, specializing in tobacco and substance use-related disparities. As a Scientific Engagement Lead at Philip Morris International, she oversees stakeholder engagement on smoke-free and reduced-risk tobacco and nicotine products in the U.S. market.
Dr. Kumar has a robust background in public health programs, policy, and research, having worked with leading institutions such as the United Nations, World Bank, integrated health systems, academia, and policy think tanks. She completed her mental health and public health graduate training in India and at New York University, Johns Hopkins University, and Harvard University.
Dr. Jeffrey Singer | Cato Institute
Dr. Jeffrey Singer is a Senior Fellow at the Cato Institute, President Emeritus of Valley Surgical Clinics, and a nationally recognized voice on health care policy and drug reform. With over 35 years in surgical practice, Dr. Singer writes and speaks extensively on evidence-based health policies and the unintended consequences of prohibition. He is also a Visiting Fellow at the Goldwater Institute and serves on the Board of Scientific Advisors of the American Council on Science and Health.
Moderator
Jazmine Advincula | Director of Public Policy, CalAsian Chamber
As the Director of Public Policy for the California Asian Pacific Chamber of Commerce, Jazmine Alop Advincula leads statewide advocacy efforts focused on inclusive economic growth and small business empowerment. A Sacramento native and experienced policy strategist, she brings a collaborative, community-centered approach to every discussion. Advincula has previously led initiatives across supply chain policy, workforce development, and economic mobility, and will guide this important conversation on balancing innovation and public health priorities.
Join the Conversation
Don’t miss this opportunity to engage with leading voices in science, regulation, and public policy as we discuss pathways for California to advance responsible, evidence-based harm reduction strategies.
Following the panel, guests are invited to join us for a networking reception with light refreshments. This is a great opportunity to continue the conversation, connect with panelists and peers, and engage with leaders across sectors who are shaping the future of public health and policy in California.
Date: Thursday, November 13, 2025
Time: 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM
Location: UC Student and Policy Center
Register today to reserve your spot and be part of the dialogue shaping California’s public health future.
This year’s Policy Summit is made possible through the generous support of our sponsors: Philip Morris International, Exxon Mobil, McDonald’s, Charter Communications, T-Mobile, Coca-Cola, Alaska Airlines, and PG&E.
On the Ground in Japan: Key Takeaways From the 2025 California-Japan Trade Mission
From September 28 to October 4, the California Asian Pacific Chamber of Commerce and CalAsian Foundation, in partnership with the New California Coalition, BizFed, LAEDC, and the WTCLA, led a dynamic delegation of California leaders, innovators, and elected officials to Tokyo and Osaka for the 2025 California-Japan Trade Mission. The week-long journey was a powerful reminder of the strength of global partnerships and the shared commitment between California and Japan to build connected, inclusive, innovative, and productive economies for all.
Here are our top takeaways from an unforgettable week of diplomacy, discovery, and collaboration:
A Warm Welcome from the U.S. Embassy Tokyo
The mission officially launched with a high-level “Welcome to Japan” briefing at the United States (US) Embassy in Tokyo, where senior officials provided timely insights into the evolving US-Japan trade and diplomatic landscape. Delegates received updates on the recently signed US-Japan trade agreement, learned about Japan’s economic priorities, and discussed opportunities for California businesses to engage in sectors like clean energy, infrastructure, and advanced manufacturing. The Embassy’s warm welcome and strategic overview set the tone for a week of meaningful engagement.
California’s Leadership on Display
The delegation was bolstered by a distinguished group of state and regional elected officials, each with an interest in key policy areas aligned with the mission’s focus areas: infrastructure resiliency, sustainability, and food and beverage. Their presence amplified California’s leadership on the global stage and opened doors to high-level conversations with Japanese counterparts.
Elected Officials Included:
- CA State Treasurer Fiona Ma
- Majority Leader Assemblymember Cecilia Aguiar-Curry
- API Caucus Chair Assemblymember Mike Fong
- Assemblymember Stephanie Nguyen, Chair, Select Committee on Ports & Goods Movement
- Assemblymember Joe Patterson, Vice Chair, Select Committee on Utilities & Energy
- Assemblymember Jose Solache, Chair, Economic Development, Growth, and Housing Impact (EDGHI)
- Mayor Rex Richardson, City of Long Beach
- Cindy Allen, President, Southern California Association of Governments (SCAG)
- Commissioner Jason Hodge, Oxnard Harbor District
Their expertise and thought leadership in forums, site visits, and bilateral meetings helped elevate California’s voice in discussions around infrastructure resiliency, energy & sustainability, and food & beverage.
Smart Cities, Flying Cars, and the Future of Infrastructure
Japan’s commitment to smart infrastructure and mobility was on full display throughout the mission. A highlight was the Tokyo-California Smart City Exchange at the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building and the Tokyo Innovation Base, where delegates explored cutting-edge approaches to urban planning, disaster resilience, and AI integration.
California innovation was on full display during our day trip to Osaka on October 2, where we were hosted as VIP guests by Joby Aviation at the World Expo. Delegates witnessed the launch of Joby’s revolutionary “flying car” taxis — an inspiring glimpse into the future of sustainable, autonomous transportation. The experience sparked conversations about how California can accelerate its own mobility innovations through global partnerships.
Ports, Trade, and Logistics: A Shared Priority
California and Japan share a deep economic bond, anchored by robust trade through their respective port systems as well as the 2023 Memorandum of Understanding signed between the Port of Yokohama and our California Ports of Los Angeles, Long Beach, and Hueneme. Our engagement with the Port & City of Yokohama, the Harbor Bureau, and Mizuho Bank provided valuable insights into Japan’s advanced infrastructure and operational efficiency. These engagements highlighted opportunities for collaboration in port modernization, green shipping technologies, and emergency preparedness — critical areas as both regions face increasing climate-related challenges.
Food, Beverage, and Cultural Exchange
California’s world-renowned agricultural and culinary sectors found enthusiastic partners in Japan’s vibrant food and beverage industry. Delegates toured the Tea Culture Creation Museum, were welcomed by the Son of the Tuna King himself at Sushi Zanmai, engaged with Japanese companies — including ITOEN — from Tokyo to Kyoto to Osaka to explore new business opportunities.
Beyond business, the mission offered rich cultural experiences, including a full Cultural Day on October 1, where delegates explored Tokyo’s historic Asakusa district, the Imperial East Garden, and the Ginza shopping district. These moments of cultural immersion deepened our understanding of Japan’s traditions and strengthened the personal connections that underpin successful international partnerships.
Cultural Day: Treasures of Tokyo
Delegates spent a vibrant Cultural Day exploring Tokyo’s rich heritage. The journey began in Asakusa with a visit to Sensō-ji Temple, Tokyo’s oldest Buddhist temple, surrounded by traditional shops and the lively Nakamise-dori street. Delegates then strolled through the tranquil Imperial Palace East Gardens and toured the Tokyo National Museum, where centuries of Japanese art and artifacts offered insight into the nation’s cultural legacy.
The day concluded in the upscale Ginza district, where delegates experienced Japan’s blend of tradition and modernity through luxury shopping, striking architecture, and local cuisine. These cultural experiences deepened personal connections and enriched the mission’s broader diplomatic and economic goals.
Building Bridges Across the Pacific
The California-Japan Trade & Investment Forum, hosted at the Keidanren-Kaikan Building, brought together top Japanese business leaders, government officials, and California delegates to identify strategic opportunities for partnership between California and Japan. This was then followed by the Pathways to Partnership: California & Japan program hosted by Pasona and MUFG, where the California delegation explored how to turn those high-level opportunities into business realities through the lenses of finance (MUFG), people (Pasona), and place (Gensler).
Pasona, a leading Japanese human resources and staffing firm with a growing presence in California, facilitated a dynamic exchange with regional business and government leaders at their reception, sparking new ideas around workforce development and cross-border collaboration.
MUFG, one of the top five largest banks in the world, played a pivotal role in the mission’s closing dinner. We were honored to be joined by Masatoshi Komoriya, Chair of the Board, whose rousing remarks underscored the importance of long-term investment and friendship between our regions.
These engagements reinforced the importance of face-to-face diplomacy in forging long-term partnerships. From innovative financing strategies to the development of the workplace, the conversations held during the mission laid the groundwork for future collaboration and investment between our respective regions.
Final Thoughts
The 2025 California-Japan Trade Mission was a powerful reminder of the value of showing up — in person, with purpose, and with a shared vision. As California continues to lead on climate action, inclusive economic growth, and technological innovation, our partnerships with global allies & friends like Japan are more important than ever.
We extend our deepest gratitude to our sponsors — United Airlines, PG&E, DoorDash, US Bank, MUFG, Pasona, Joby Aviation, Delta, Port of Long Beach, Sunstone, and the Port of Los Angeles — and to every delegate who contributed to the success of this mission!
Member Spotlight: Republic Services — Leading the Future of Sustainable Waste and Environmental Solutions
When it comes to environmental services in North America, few companies have achieved the reach, vision, and impact of Republic Services. With decades of experience under its belt, Republic has evolved from a trusted waste management provider into one of the foremost leaders in sustainable recycling, energy recovery, and industrial environmental solutions.
A Legacy of Growth, Innovation & Reliability
Republic’s origins trace back to the mid-1990s, when it incorporated as Republic Services in 1996 and went public on the NYSE by 1998. Further expanding its scope, the company merged with Allied Waste—a heritage waste management giant—in 2008, solidifying its market position.
Today, Republic Services is a leader in environmental services across North America. With over 1,000 locations, a fleet of 17,000 vehicles, and more than 13 million customers, the company orchestrates 5 million waste pickups daily.
Comprehensive, Tailored Services
Republic delivers a full spectrum of solutions:
- Waste Collection & Disposal for residential, commercial, industrial—and even hazardous—waste streams.
- Recycling Programs, powered by 75 recycling centers, process millions of tons of materials.
- Energy Services, including landfill gas-to-energy projects, transform waste into renewable power.
- Environmental Solutions, featuring high-complexity hazardous treatment, industrial cleaning, emergency response, and oil & gas sector services.
Their environmental services capabilities extend beyond routine disposal—from rapid response to environmental crises to tank cleaning and remediation. Republic's customer portals even enable clients to manage their accounts, forms, and documentation online, streamlining compliance and efficiency.
A Culture Rooted in Values & Sustainability
Republic Services isn’t just a waste hauler—it’s a sustainability pioneer. Its “Sustainability in Action” framework uniquely positions safety, talent, climate leadership, and community engagement at the core of its operations, anchored by bold 2030 sustainability goals.
- Safety: Republic’s safety performance is 38% better than the industry average. Their goal? Zero employee fatalities and a Total Recordable Incident Rate of 2.0 by 2030.
- Talent: From leadership academies to technology institutes, Republic invests in its workforce, ensuring employee engagement scores reach or exceed 88%.
- Climate Leadership: Republic launched the nation’s first Polymer Center, invested in electric collection trucks, and partnered on landfill renewable natural gas (RNG) projects.
- Community: Its National Neighborhood Promise and corporate philanthropy programs empower neighborhoods where their employees live and work.
In recognition of its integrity, Republic Services was named one of the World’s Most Ethical Companies by Ethisphere in 2025.
Financial Strength & Market Confidence
Republic’s financial performance mirrors its operational strength. As one of the two dominant players in U.S. waste services, it forecasted over $16 billion in 2024 revenue—backed by pricing power and sustained demand.
On Wall Street, Republic’s stock has climbed steadily—rising from around $65 in 2020 to over $210 by late 2024—a 142% increase. Analysts highlight its consistent earnings and dividend-friendly metrics as signs of its essential role in modern infrastructure.
Committed Leadership for a Sustainable Tomorrow
Republic’s leadership team remains focused on profitable, sustainable growth, partnering with customers to build cleaner, safer communities. Their culture—built on being Safe, Committed to Serve, Environmentally Responsible, and Driven—ensures the company delivers results responsibly.
Why It Matters
In today’s rapidly changing world, Republic Services stands out as a model of innovation, reliability, and environmental stewardship. From household waste pickup to renewable energy development, their vertically integrated model turns challenges into opportunities—and consistently delivers value to customers, communities, and the planet.
Republic Services isn't just managing waste; it’s shaping a more sustainable and resilient future. Discover how Republic Services can elevate your sustainability efforts and meet your environmental needs.
Trailblazers: Women Innovators Pitch Competition Returns August 1 to Uplift Visionary Women Entrepreneurs Nationwide
The California Asian Pacific Chamber of Commerce (CalAsian Chamber), in partnership with the CalAsian Foundation and National Asian/Pacific Islander American Chamber of Commerce and Entrepreneurship (National ACE), is proud to announce the return of Trailblazers: Women Innovators Pitch Competition on Friday, August 1, 2025, at UCI Beall Applied Innovation @ the Cove in Irvine, CA from 5:00 – 8:00 PM—RSVP Today!
Now in its eighth year, Trailblazers is a nationally recognized pitch competition that celebrates the power of women-led innovation and entrepreneurship. Each year, five finalists—selected through a competitive national search—take the stage to pitch their ventures to a live audience and a panel of expert judges for a chance to win funding and strategic support that can accelerate their growth.
The event draws civic leaders, funders, investors, and change agents from across the country, united in support of advancing equity and visibility for women entrepreneurs. Trailblazers is a free event that is open to the public, offering attendees a chance to witness transformative ideas in action and connect with an energized community committed to inclusive economic development.
RSVP Today: https://trailblazerspitch.eventbrite.com/?aff=PMIrelease
“Trailblazers is more than just a pitch competition—it’s a national platform that empowers and uplifts visionary women entrepreneurs,” said Pat Fong Kushida, President & CEO of the CalAsian Chamber and CalAsian Foundation. “It’s an incredible opportunity to shine a light on innovation that is too often overlooked, and to create new pathways for long-term business success.”
Introducing the 2025 Finalists
These five bold entrepreneurs were selected from a competitive pool of 50+ applicants to pitch their groundbreaking businesses on stage:
- Kanna Ecklund – Asaichi
Eco-friendly floral foam alternative that offers water retention, strong support, and safety for you and the planet.
- Valerie Bernal – Parker and Talia
Sensory-friendly clothing and socks that keep kids calm and comfy all day long.
- Melody Stein – pi00a
Inclusive pizza brand that challenges norms, empowers the Deaf community, and promotes Deaf culture through business.
- Amber Ivey – AiDigiTales
AI-driven storytelling tools to empower young learners, educators, and content creators of color.
- Charlyn Bender – Avarie Femcare
Period care with reusable, comfortable menstrual products designed for active lifestyles and sustainability.
A Special Thank You to Philip Morris International
At this year’s event, we will be recognizing Philip Morris International’s U.S. businesses (PMI U.S.) for their $100,000 investment in the CalAsian Foundation’s efforts to expand access to entrepreneurship and economic opportunity for small businesses. This support aligns with PMI U.S.’s giving area of Economic Empowerment, which focuses on making economic opportunity a reality for all. PMI U.S.’s investment in the foundation will help deliver technical assistance, capital access, and growth strategies to small business owners , positioning them for success.
“At PMI U.S., we’re committed to pragmatic philanthropy – supporting initiatives that deliver real, measurable impact,” said Marian Salzman, PMI SVP, Corporate Development, U.S. “Our investment in the CalAsian Foundation is about championing small business owners and entrepreneurs, ensuring they have the tools they need to succeed. We’re proud to stand alongside partners who share our belief that economic empowerment should be within reach for everyone.”
The contribution of PMI U.S., a leader in smoke-free innovation, strengthens the Foundation’s mission and sets the stage for future collaboration to scale impact and drive lasting economic empowerment – such as events like Trailblazers that spotlight and uplift the next generation of women entrepreneurs.
We welcome members of the media to join us for coverage of this inspiring event. Opportunities are available for on-site interviews along with photo and video access to the pitch competition, networking reception, and more. For media inquiries, please contact:
Lauren Akabori
Media & Content Specialist
California Asian Pacific Chamber of Commerce
lakabori@calasiancc.org | (916) 912-5281
Five Visionary Women, One Stage: Meet the Finalists of the 2025 Trailblazers Pitch Competition
The California Asian Pacific Chamber of Commerce, CalAsian Foundation, and NationalACE is proud to introduce the finalists of the 2025 Trailblazers: Women Innovators Pitch Competition—five bold, community-driven entrepreneurs from across the country who are building the future through innovation and impact.
From revolutionizing period care, pizza, and children’s clothing to transforming AI education and sustainable floristry, these women-led businesses are reshaping their industries and uplifting the communities they serve.
On August 1, 2025, these inspiring founders will pitch live in Irvine, CA for a chance to win funding, resources, and recognition to help grow their ventures. The event is free and open to the public, offering attendees a powerful evening of stories, connection, and women-led innovation.
Meet the 2025 Finalists:
Amber Ivey – Founder of AiDigiTales (Washington, DC – Baltimore area)
Amber founded AiDigiTales to make AI literacy accessible and fun for kids through interactive children's books, biweekly podcasts that simplify complex AI topics, AI Activity Decks for screen-free learning, and workshops for students and teachers.
Charlyn Bender – Founder of Avarie Femcare (Los Angeles, CA)
Charlyn is a former Deputy District Attorney turned entrepreneur, on a mission to revolutionize period care with Avarie Femcare. Founded in 2022, Avarie Femcare is a newly launched feminine health and hygiene company focused on providing women with better period products. Her company offers high-performance, inclusive products and a digital platform aimed at education and community.
Kanna Ecklund – Founder of ASAICHI (San Diego, CA)
Founded out of a passion for floral design and a commitment to health and the environment, Kanna is a third-generation florist who founded ASAICHI (formerly GreenGrip), a plant-based alternative to toxic floral foam, inspired by the loss of her grandfather, whose illness may have been tied to long-term chemical exposure. She developed an eco-friendly foam to eliminate the risks associated with traditional floral foam.
Melody Stein – Co-Founder of Pi00a (Los Angeles, CA)
Melody and her husband Russ launched their first pizza restaurant in 2011, creating job opportunities for the Deaf community and promoting a fully ASL-accessible workplace. Today, they run Pi00a, a frozen pizza brand blending Neapolitan tradition with Asian-inspired flavors. “We saw a gap in the frozen pizza category... while also creating job opportunities for the Deaf community, who too often face barriers to employment.”
Valerie Bernal – Founder of Parker and Talia (New York City, NY)
Valerie founded Parker and Talia after combining her two passions, fashion and her love of being a mom. With 20 years in the industry, she launched the clothing brand, offering soft, simple, sensory-safe clothes for neurodiverse kids that helps build a supportive community for families like mine. A portion of every sale even helps fund pediatric mental health programs, because comfort goes beyond clothing.
See Them Pitch LIVE!
Don’t miss your chance to experience the energy and ingenuity of these visionary founders at the Trailblazers: Women Innovators Pitch Competition on Thursday, August 1st from 5:00–8:00 PM at UCI Beall Applied Innovation at the Cove in Irvine, CA.
Meet the finalists, hear their stories, and see them pitch their businesses to a panel of esteemed judges. This event is your front-row seat to the future of women-led entrepreneurship.
Admission is free—reserve your spot today!