Sahra Nguyen
How did growing up Asian make you feel?
Growing up Asian in the 90s (pre social media) in Boston, I felt invisible, unrepresented, and misunderstood. I didn’t see myself reflected in mainstream media, which made me question my identity as I found myself often comparing my appearance and experience to the dominant narratives seen on TV. But also, not seeing myself reflected in mainstream media meant that all those around me had limited to no access into my community’s experiences, which led to me being misunderstood, looked down upon or ignored altogether.
How do you feel now? What does being part of the AAPI community mean to you?
Now, as an adult and someone who has spent 20 years rooted in activist work and community empowerment, I spend everyday living out my pride and joy as a 1st generation Vietnamese American, daughter of refugees. The expansive, multifaceted and nuanced AAPI community can sometimes be complicated as there’s no 1 singular experience to define us as a conglomerate, yet living in multiracial America we often feel compelled to identify as one for the sake of ease. I love that the AAPI community is constantly evolving, and in recent years, I feel the sense of widespread unity and desire for collective progress grow to be stronger than ever, particularly on a mainstream level. This is not to disregard the decades long work of intergenerational community organizers and activists who have been fighting for systemic change long before we started having these conversations on social media. I feel so proud when I see the younger generation normalize conversations around culture and identity politics, and living their most authentic lives. And while there are still extreme systemic inequities, racism and oppression in our world, the fact that we’ve evolved as a culture & society where specifying preferred gender pronouns in our conversations is the norm now and we can talk about the disaggregation of Asian cultures rather than a monolithic umbrella of “Chinese” – is progress.
What's a moment recently where you've felt a strong sense of pride?
Growing up, I used to hate my last name “Nguyen” because no one could say it, some kids would make fun of it, and it was overall a strong indicator of my difference, which made me feel very alienated. In an effort to reclaim my last name and help bring more visibility to my community, I named my company “Nguyen Coffee Supply.” I don’t want to run from it because it’s different to pronounce, but rather use it as an educational opportunity to talk about diacritics of the Vietnamese language. Now, we’re launching in Whole Foods Market in June, and we’ll see “NGUYEN” on the shelves of one of the most renowned supermarkets in the country. Our presence in stores is a conversation starter and an access point into stories about culture, coffee and representation.
If you had to recommend someone your favorite AAPI owned restaurant, where would it be and what should they order?
Pho Bang on Mott Street, in Chinatown. My favorite dish there is the grilled lemongrass chicken thigh with a fried egg.
Who inspires you?
My parents.
What are you listening to right now? (we'll make a playlist)
Pusha T’s new album “It’s Almost Dry” is on repeat. The whole album is fire but if I had to choose top 3 tracks would be Rock N Roll, Neck & Wrist and Scrape It Off.
Are there any AAPI artists or designers you've been eyeing lately?
Thai Nguyen.
How do you unwind after a particularly long/stressful day?
If I’m staying in, a boulevardier on the rocks and an episode of true crime – it’s gratifying to solve a case within 40 minutes. If I need to step out, a boulevardier and a round of shooting pool – I like to channel my energy towards focusing on sinking balls and winning.
Sahra wears the Seamed Denim Bustier and High Rise Baggy Pant in Tropical Chambray Abstract, and Le Naomi Mule.
Any advice you could share for someone struggling with their identity?
Self-love is an active process, so start small, reframe, and acknowledge the things you appreciate about yourself everyday. Even if it feels uncomfortable (which is okay), just think of this active process as strengthening your courage muscle.
How can people get involved to help their AAPI communities?
Ask AAPI business owners, artists, non-profits and people around you what they need. Listen, then implement. If someone were to ask me, I’d say support Nguyen Coffee Supply by buying our coffee and/or amplifying our mission.
Why do you like supporting Heart of Dinner and their mission?
Our elderly are the most vulnerable, and easily neglected. Especially during this time where there is a pattern of Asian elders being targeted and attacked. I’m so grateful that Heart of Dinner delivers meal, joy, and love to our elders. This helps them feel seen, understood and valued. We must remember that everything we have today is made possible by the hard work and sacrifice of all those who came before us, including all of our elders who carved space for the younger generation to live, work, and build.