Each year, ILF holds a global awards ceremony to recognize outstanding leaders who have provided outstanding services to the AAPI communities and the nation. Awards are given to winners of different categories through rigorous judging processes. This year marks the twentieth anniversary of the ILF’s Leadership Awards. Over the years, various heads of government have presented the awards at the ILF’s annual gala. The awardees provide the next generation of young people examples to follow and allow them to see AAPI members thriving in mainstream society.

Asian- Americans that have been recognized as models for all young American leaders for their outstanding contributions in politics, economics, science and technology, and culture include the Honorable Elaine L. Chao, Secretary of Transportation and former Secretary of Labor; the Honorable Norman Mineta, former Secretary of Transportation and former Secretary of Commerce, and Honorary ILF Chairman; Max Baucus, former U.S. Ambassador to China; Members of Congress Judy Chu, Grace Meng, Doris Matsui, Ted Lieu, and Amata Radewagen; Yoshimi Inaba, Executive Chairman of Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc.; Kanwal Rekhi, Founder of The Indus Entrepreneurs (TiE) organization; international film star Jackie Chan; David Ho, prominent AIDS researcher; and Toby Dawson, Olympic medalist.