Already tired of the week’s usual routine of going to class, eating, studying, partying, sleeping, and looking for something new to do in Gainesville? Look no further than UF and come along on a month-long journey celebrating and learning about Asian American culture with AKM: Asian Kaleidoscope Month.

For 22 years, the Asian American Student Union (AASU) and the AKM staff have been proud to continue the tradition of recognizing the rich heritage unique to Asian countries around the world. This year, the focus of AKM is to not only highlight the achievements of the Asian American community, but to share and celebrate this growth with a larger audience.

Earlier this week, AKM kicked off the first of its events with Opening Ceremony at the Reitz Grand Ballroom. The energy and sense of community was indescribable, as the crowd could not be contained. APIA Director Alex Cena spoke passionately about AKM’s philanthropy, the Asia Foundation, and the many advancements of the Asian community. 

Two special guest performers, renown YouTube stars Julie Zhan and Timothy DeLaGhetto, took the stage that night. Zhan featured one of her interpretive dance pieces, while DeLaGhetto rapped deep lyrics to the audience.

Executive Director and sister of aKDPHI, Alice Zhang, gave a speech tying in the elements of AKM with this year’s theme BRAVE and also introduced her amazing board of directors. She stated prior to ceremony, “In college you have to be brave to get the things you want. If you want to do anything you are passionate about, you just have to be brave and you’re that much closer to it.” By heading AKM, Zhang wishes to “inspire and educate the new generation of Asian American leaders.”

This year’s Mr. and Mrs. AASU Pageant Contestants, Vi Le, Umbar Malik, Tram Nguyen, Alicia Soller, Zeel Patel, Howie Johnson, Will Hsuing, Haitao Xu, Jan Dela Cruz, and Kevin Sardja, also formally introduced themselves on stage, for the first time, as their respective fans screamed and cheered. 

Opening Ceremony is just a preview of one of the six main events to come later this month. Be on the lookout and don’t miss out on AKM Pageant, Fashion Show, Food Festival, and Closing Ceremony, amongst the other small events hosted throughout the week. The small events will be a great outlet to learn more in depth about Asian culture and issues, through interactive workshops and discussions. Surprise guest appearances will be announced in the near future. 

If you’re looking to explore Gainesville a little more, and interested in learning about a new culture other than your own, your new adventure with AKM awaits you. All events are free of charge and refreshments are usually offered. Executive Director, Alice Zhang, comments, “I hope that people will take away something from AKM this year and that they come out and see what we have to showcase. This year will be different and exciting!"