How Two MongoDB Employees Are Reflecting on Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month

MongoDB employees, Zaira Pirzada and Kailie Yuan, reflect on Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month, sharing their personal stories of identity, culture, and the struggles they faced growing up in diverse communities. Both women highlight the importance of recognizing and celebrating individual experiences within the broader Asian American and Pacific Islander community, as well as acknowledging the challenges that many face due to stereotypes and discrimination. Zaira Pirzada shares her journey as a Pakistani-American woman navigating multiple cultures and languages, while Kailie Yuan discusses her experiences with perfectionism and cultural expectations in Chinese families, highlighting the need for greater understanding and empathy. Through their stories, both women aim to raise awareness about the complexities of Asian American identity and the importance of inclusivity and representation.