AAPI Heritage Month: Rachel Hanawa

Celebrating AAPI Heritage Month with Rachel Hanawa

May is Asian American and Pacific Islander Month. This year, Legacy's AAPI Employee Resource Group is proud to share stories of leadership, resilience and identity in the workplace from a few members. This is just one of many stories.

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Rachel Hanawa joined Legacy Meridian Park Medical Center 11 years ago as a certified nurse assistant, fulfilling her goal to serve her community. She’s held several positions since coming to Legacy and is currently a patient access representative.

If you’re visiting Legacy Meridian Park, Rachel might be one of the first people you meet as she helps guide people to appointments, hospital rooms or answers questions. 

She recently spoke about her experiences as Legacy celebrates Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month and the national theme of a legacy of leadership and resilience.  

What challenges have you faced navigating your identity in the workplace, and what helped you overcome them?
 
Navigating one's identity in the workplace can often present a myriad of challenges, from misunderstanding and lack of acceptance. These challenges can stem from cultural differences, biases, or a lack of representation and support within the organization. Overcoming these difficulties often requires resilience, seeking support from allies and mentors, and fostering open communication to educate and inform colleagues about one's identity.  

I am an advocate for diversity and inclusion initiatives within Legacy. These initiatives have helped pave the way for a more supportive environment, ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to thrive professionally and personally.
 
Can you share a moment when you had to show resilience in your career or life, and how your cultural background helped shape your response?
 
My multicultural upbringing emphasized the importance of maintaining a positive outlook, even in adversity. This mindset was instrumental in keeping me motivated each day. I’m frequently reminded of our shared goals and celebrated small victories along the way.

Growing up with a multicultural background, it strongly emphasized perseverance, solidarity, and mutual support, I learned the value of teamwork and collective effort. In my culture, we often say, "It takes a village," underscoring the importance of unity and shared responsibility.
 
How have you seen leadership within the AAPI community demonstrated in your own life or by others at Legacy?
 
Leadership within the AAPI community has been vividly demonstrated through various initiatives and events, particularly during AAPI Heritage Month. My manager, who is actively part of the AAPI committees at Legacy, has played a pivotal role in highlighting and celebrating the contributions of the AAPI community.
 
In what ways has your cultural identity shaped your leadership style or the way you navigate challenges?
 
My cultural identity, enriched by Buddhism, family values, and respect for the elderly, has profoundly influenced my leadership style. Growing up in Malaysia, I was taught to work diligently and embrace diversity, while living harmoniously with different races. 

Speaking multiple languages and experiencing a wide gastronomic cuisine from our rich culture has broadened my perspective, which I share today with our team. Patience, perseverance, and empathy are my guiding principles in navigating challenges. 

Additionally, my high customer service expectations, honed from working in the airlines and being based in Kuala Lumpur and Hong Kong, shape how I carry myself and handle challenges at work.