Each year, ILF holds a global awards ceremony to recognize outstanding members in the APA community who have provided outstanding services to their communities. 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 APA 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; Mitch McConnell, U.S. Senate Majority Leader; Nancy Pelosi, Speaker of the House; 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.

The ILF Leadership and Business Conference aims to explore, investigate, and discuss the relationship between the United States and China as the two countries become increasingly interdependent. The U.S.-Asia Strategic Economic Forum features U.S.-China Economic and Business Relations as well as discussions about U.S.-Asia Global Strategic Alliances. The conference includes a Business-to-Business Networking and Procurement Session. The event introduces qualified Asian entrepreneurs to program managers and buyers to discuss contracting and subcontracting opportunities. Both Federal Agencies and corporate organizations participate. This session also matches international business opportunities to Asian firms. The ILF delegation participates in congressional visits and also visits diplomatic meetings with Asian countries and federal agencies such as the U.S. Treasury Bureau of Engraving and Printing (BEP).