What does a singer, an activist, a beauty queen, and an Attorney General have in common? They’re all Filipino Americans recognized in the prestigious Gold House A100 list for 2023, a line-up that celebrates Asian Pacific leaders at the forefront of culture and innovation.
A Legend, an A1 Awardee, and eight A100 Honorees who are Filipinos or of Filipino descent were feted during Gold House’s annual A-lister Gold Gala event held onsite on May 6, 2023. Here are the ten Filipinos who have made significant impacts on American society this year.
1. Lea Salonga: A Lifetime of Indelible Contributions
Renowned globally for her powerful voice and perfect pitch, Lea Salonga receives the Gold Legend Honor for her lifelong contributions to musical theatre and the Asian Pacific community. From her role in Miss Saigon to her voiceover work for Disney princesses, Salonga continues to excel in her field and represent the community.
2. Geena Rocero: Activism and Journalism A1 Honoree
Geena Rocero, the Filipino-American model and activist, receives a special honor in the Activism & Journalism category. Known for her work as a trans rights advocate and her Emmy-nominated work in production, Rocero continues to influence culture and advocacy.
3. Saweetie: The Multi-Platinum Musical Artist
Chart-topping Filipino American artist, Saweetie, has established herself as a powerhouse in the music and entertainment industry. Her music, entrepreneurial spirit, and recent foray into acting showcase her dynamism and ambition. Saweetie paid homage to her Filipino roots during her MET Gala debut.
4. Shay Mitchell: Actor and Entrepreneur
Shay Mitchell, best known for her roles in ‘Pretty Little Liars’ and ‘You’, is not just an acclaimed actor but also the co-founder of the travel brand, BEIS. Her work in entertainment and business secures her place on the A100 list. Mitchell voiced the lead character in the first all-Filipino anime on Netflix, Trese.
5. R’Bonney Nola Gabriel: Miss Universe 2022 and Miss USA 2022
R’Bonney Nola Gabriel, the first Filipino-American to win the Miss Universe crown, has taken the world by storm, earning her place in the A100 for her contributions to fashion and representation.
6. Steve Lacy: Musical Artist on the Rise
Filipino-American singer-songwriter and record producer Steve Lacy has made waves in the music industry, with his second studio album, Gemini Rights, achieving top ten status on the Billboard 200 chart.
7. Jose Antonio Vargas: Writer, Producer, Director, and Advocate
Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist and advocate for immigrant rights, Jose Antonio Vargas, is the founder of the narrative change organization Define American. His work, spanning journalism, film, and advocacy, earns him a spot on the A100 list.
8. Pablo Sison Torre: ESPN’s Host, Writer, and Commentator
Pablo Torre, an award-winning host, writer, and commentator for ESPN, is known for his insightful sports reporting and commentary. His dedication to his craft has won him recognition and a place on the A100 list.
9. Rob Bonta: California Attorney General
Rob Bonta, the first Filipino American and second Asian American Attorney General of California is celebrated for his lifelong commitment to justice, fairness, and public service.
10. Melanie Perkins: Co-Founder and CEO, Canva
Melanie Perkins, the co-founder of the online design platform Canva, has revolutionized the way people design online. Her commitment to empowering users worldwide has earned her a place on the A100 list.
These honorees and their contributions are reminders of the significant impact Filipinos have on American culture and society. Their achievements bridge communities, industries, and continents, challenging expectations and paving the way for future generations.
THE FULL LIST of Gold House A100 for 2023 is found here:
Lea Salonga, Geena Rocero lead impactful Filipinos in @GoldHouseCo A 100 List for 2023 https://t.co/4YHROEq2Z7
— GoodNewsPilipinas.com (@GoodNewsPinas_) May 12, 2023
In 2022, 13 Filipinos were named in the A100 while in 2021 there were 9 honorees.
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