Ashlyn So is a remarkable rising star in the design world, already showcasing collections at New York and Paris Fashion Weeks by age 16. She powerfully combines her striking fashion with dedicated activism, driven by the belief that fashion provides both identity and a voice. This conviction fuels her work speaking out against bullying and AAPI/Asian-Hate.

In this conversation, host Jay Ruderman and Ashlyn delve into the experience of being an introverted activist, the importance of building supportive communities for change, and how Ashlyn intentionally grows her distinct design work and impactful activism in tandem.

Episode Chapters

(0:00) intro

(0:41) becoming an “accidental activist”

(2:44) combating AAPI hate during COVID 19

(6:17) Ashlyn’s design origin story

(9:30) how Ashlyn integrates her culture and activist causes into designs

(12:09) Mental health as a young person with an audience

(15:50) How Ashlyn organized a safe and successful rally

(22:11) What’s next for Ashlyn’s design work and activism?

(24:22) outro

For video episodes, watch on www.youtube.com/@therudermanfamilyfoundation

Stay in touch:

X: @JayRuderman | @RudermanFdn

LinkedIn: Jay Ruderman | Ruderman Family Foundation

Instagram: All About Change Podcast | Ruderman Family Foundation

To learn more about the podcast, visit https://allaboutchangepodcast.com/

Looking for more insights into the world of activism? Be sure to check out Jay’s brand new book, Find Your Fight, in which Jay teaches the next generation of activists and advocates how to step up and bring about lasting change. You can find Find Your Fight wherever you buy your books, and you can learn more about it at ⁠www.jayruderman.com⁠.