The Asian American Youth Leadership (AAYL) program hosted a forum at the South Coast Chinese Cultural Center, “Future Horizons: Pathways to Leadership & Change,” where Irvine Mayor Larry Agran, Vice Mayor James Mai, and Councilmember Melinda Liu shared insights on life, AI, and the city’s future.
They urged youth to dream big, serve their communities, and lead change. Moderated by AAYL Director Mary Nguyen with guidance from UCI’s Dr. Judy Wu and Dr. Tony Hwang, the forum took place on September 27.
Life Lessons Dare to Dream
Mayor Larry Agran reflected on the value of community, describing Irvine not just as a city but as a shared home where youth should speak up, learn from elders, and embrace responsibility.
Vice Mayor James Mai stressed the importance of following one’s passion: “Advice can guide you, but choices must come from the heart.”
Councilmember Melinda Liu encouraged students to act without fear of imperfection: “Even if you have to fake confidence at first, action leads to growth and success.”
Wisdom & AI A Generational Dialogue
When a student asked how they viewed AI, the officials offered distinct perspectives :
Mayor Agran cautioned that AI’s rapid rise is a “critical threshold” requiring careful oversight.
Vice Mayor Mai compared AI to the advent of cars and television—inevitable but needing rules and governance.
Councilmember Liu emphasized AI as a neutral tool, urging youth to master it for the good of society: “Handled well, it can be a force for progress.”
City Blueprints Shared Responsibility
Mayor Agran outlined Irvine’s “Urban Forest” plan, pledging 100,000–200,000 new trees within 15 years and a city nursery at the Great Park.
Vice Mayor Mai highlighted three initiatives: a nonprofit resource hub, a new senior service center, and a citywide fiber upgrade to close gaps in access.
Councilmember Liu focused on families, calling for affordable childcare from preschool to grade six, and advocating for a new community center and library branch in District 1.
From personal choices to AI challenges, from sustainability to city visions, the forum gave students a rare look into leadership in action.
It concluded with applause and a group photo, marking an inspiring close to the event.
Students posed with Mayor Larry Agran (center) after the forum
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The Asian American Youth Leadership (AAYL) program, founded after the pandemic by the South Coast Chinese Cultural Center, is guided by UCI’s Dr. Judy Wu, Dr. Tony Hwang, and PhD student Mary Nguyen.
AAYL prepares the next generation of Asian American leaders by advancing equity and justice, fostering civic engagement, and developing skills for meaningful social change.
The program also promotes awareness of Asian American history and culture, strengthens cross-community understanding, and helps reduce prejudice and hate.