Farewell Julie Bawa, AAHI Program Manager

Last week, the Asian American Health Initiative said goodbye to Program Manager, Julie Bawa. Julie has left AAHI to embark on an exciting opportunity at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. As one of AAHI’s founding members with a six year tenure at AAHI, Julie is credited for many of AAHI’s successes. AAHI wants to take this opportunity to thank Julie for her dedication and passion to serving the Asian American community. Last week, before her departure, AAHI’s summer interns had the opportunity to interview Julie and gather her last thoughts before she left.

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Q: As the founder of AAHI, what are your thoughts on the eve of your departure?

A: Leaving AAHI was very difficult decision for me. AAHI has grown tremendously since it started and although I am leaving behind a great foundation, it still needs a lot of work. The voice of the Asian American Health Initiative needs to be louder. Nonetheless, it is a very exciting time for AAHI with all the new programs in action and the strategic plan coming out. For me, this decision personally was very emotional but professionally it is time to move on.

Q: During your time here, what impact, if any, do you think AAHI has made on the community?

A: Prior to AAHI, there were minimal efforts made to target Asian American communities at a county level since the growth and diversity of these communities were viewed as challenges. Through the efforts of AAHI, however, the community was able to become actively involved with the concerns of many Asian Americans. AAHI is able to stand due to its unique abstracts that captured the attention of not just local, but county and state officials as well. In addition, the opportunities that AAHI has had to expand at a higher level is a great accomplishment on its own.

Q: Are there any parting words of wisdom that you would like to leave for your staff?

A: Because most of the staff that starts out at AAHI is young, I would say take in as much as you can while you are here. There are several opportunities to create for yourselves at this age here. At AAHI there is so much freedom to develop interventions, start your own initiatives, and network professionally. Through working here you get a chance not only to participate in hands-on, grassroots work, but also sit in on business meetings and play an active role in developing strategies. As young people coming here right out of college, it’s the perfect place to apply what you learn in the classroom to an actual community. You can experience health education, outreach and meet board members, and run an initiative yourself all in one place. Experience and take advantage, with the guidance of the wonderful staff already here, of all that there is to offer.

Q: As you leave AAHI, a new chapter in your career begins. What are some insights that you can give us about your new position?

A: I will still be working for the Department of Health and Human Services for the agency of Health Resources and Service Administration (HRSA) specifically in the Bureau of Primary Health Care of the Western Pacific Division. Specifically, I will serve under income and under privileged communities in areas such as California, Guam, and the Pacific Islands.

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