Karen Loong

Executive Director

Karen Loong is a multi-dimensional creator, proud entrepreneur, non-profit leader, plant lover, floral designer, community builder, activist, volunteer, and daughter of Southeast Asian immigrants.

The act of giving is a simple yet transformational expression of love that has defined Karen and her purpose in life.

Growing up in an immigrant family, she understood at a young age how lending a helping hand reflects the unspoken cultural value of reciprocity that has made it possible for so many marginalized communities to not only survive, but thrive together.

Karen first began to realize her passion while being a full-time paralegal and college student. Through Asian American Studies (AAS), she learned about social injustices and civil rights issues that shaped her story as well as the lives of her community.

This realization inspired Karen to change her political science major and she graduated with a Bachelor's degree focused on AAS from California State University, Northridge. Her education paved the way for Karen to find her voice in serving social justice organizations in various leadership roles.

Karen’s heart is at the fullest when she uses her unique ability to transform the way we connect with one another through meaningful and intentional interactions that enrich our communities.

As a volunteer and leader, she has created safe and empowering spaces for collective learning and grassroots organizing, along with planning successful fundraising campaigns and major events for various community-based organizations in the Greater Los Angeles Area.

In 2018, Karen became the founder of CreateHerStory, a creative brand dedicated to opening doors for community-centered events and experiences providing resources and a platform for activism. Later in 2019, she co-founded EKLA Events, where Karen and her best friend plan custom events that create intimate connections and memorable experiences throughout Southern California.

In that same year, Karen started working as the Program Manager at Asian American Professional Association (AAPA) and most recently became the first woman of color to serve as Executive Director in 2022. She is also a LA small business owner hosting several pop-ups and community events with her signature thrift & consignment store CreateHerCloset.

Giving back, while connecting with people to create positive change in the world, is what lights a fire in Karen’s heart and it is also how she has found her place in the world. This is why it is her life’s mission to inspire others to find theirs.​