“To capture the essence of Taiwan.”

The ABTaiwan Project is an initiative dedicated to capturing the essence of Taiwan in the United States, and the rest of the world. Our way of doing this is three-fold: Interviews, Articles, and Collaborations. Equally important, The ABTaiwan Project explores the meaning of Taiwanese-Americanness and Formosan ontology.

Interviews
ABTaiwan interviews consist of three sub-categories: 1. The Legacy Project 2. Student Stories 3. The Hyphenated-Identity. The former refers to ABTaiwan’s aims to preserve the culture legacy and individual legacies of Taiwanese-Americans. By doing so, we hope to promote Taiwanese culture by sharing the successes and reflections of professionals who have made a profound cultural impact on both Taiwan and the United States. Secondly, student stories aim to connect the younger generation of Taiwanese-Americans with the older. By sharing multi-faceted perspectives on the collective identity, ABTaiwan hopes to address and reconcile differences in beliefs, cultures, et. cetera. The latter develops a more coherent understanding of the Taiwanese-American identity, thereby painting a more intricate picture of the overall hyphenated identity. Through conversations with individuals who have a cultural connection with Taiwan and the U.S., ABTaiwan interviews capture the essence of Taiwan in America, while exploring the Taiwanese-American identity.

Our team consists of fantastic interviewers with professional videographers who use top-line equipment. Common questions you might expect in an interview are: What does it mean to be Taiwanese-American? Identity-wise, are you more Taiwanese or American? What advice would you give to your younger self? What is the most significant aspect of Taiwanese culture?

Articles
ABTaiwan articles are written by ambitious students, many of which are published authors in the pre-professional world. From sharing anecdotes about cultural-specific lived experiences to foreign policy suggestions, our articles delve into the nuances of many different topics. Additionally, these articles offer insight into current events in both Taiwan and the Taiwanese-American community. Some of our articles are also translated to Chinese!

Also, we have a team of four editors who are responsible for reviewing each and every article submission. We hope to maintain research authenticity and legitimacy as means to better explore Taiwan and everything Formosa.

Collaborations
ABTaiwan collaborations and partnerships encapsulate a wide range of mission-oriented pursuits. These collaborations come in the form of hosting joint events, adding Taiwanese dishes to local restaurant menus, sharing research, hosting night-markets, etc… Important is the youth connect internship program, in which members/volunteers of ABTaiwan will be exposed to a large network of Taiwanese-American professionals who have offered to help the younger generation cultivate professional development. Our members have a community wherein we share advice and connect each other with various pre-professional and professional opportunities.

Why We Do This
In a world that often feels divided on the topic of our home, we recognize the importance of a space where young people can connect with their heritage and learn from each other’s experiences. The ABTaiwan Project hopes to promote cultural pride and empower the next generation to share their voices.

But perhaps more importantly, The ABTaiwan Project has the underlying motivation to shift foreign discourse and international attention away from Taiwan as merely a geopolitical pawn, but rather a distinct group of peoples who have endured much suffering but choose to remain proud.

Join Us
Whether you’re here to read, write, or connect, ABTaiwan welcomes all youth, regardless of background. Sign up to be an ABTaiwan volunteer or apply to become one of our team members. Just email: abtaiwanproject@gmail.com or evanyclee1@gmail.com to get started.