Heritage & Hope workshops give Asian American high school students in Central Florida a place to explore their identity, build creative and leadership skills, and connect with mentors and peers who share their story.
Coffee & Confidence
- When3:00 to 5:00 PM
- WhereBash & Brew, 2900 E Colonial Dr, Orlando, FL 32803
- WhoStudents and young leaders ages 16 to 22
- CostFree. 25 spots, RSVP by November 4
A two-hour, hands-on afternoon on speaking up and showing up. Students practice interview and public speaking skills, learn how posture and expression read as confidence, and leave with a free professional headshot for college applications, résumés and LinkedIn.
The afternoon
- Welcome & grab a brew
Check in, pick up a name tag and grab coffee or tea from Bash & Brew. Opening remarks from Heritage and Hope.
- Part 1: Speak with confidence
David Sudarma on getting past speaking and interview nerves, projecting your voice, structuring your points under pressure and introducing yourself with poise.
- Speaking practice
A fast-paced elevator pitch and mock interview exercise, followed by peer feedback and Q&A.
- Part 2: Body language & posing
Bouquet Kramek on how posture, stance and expression communicate confidence, and small adjustments that feel natural on camera.
- Headshots & networking
One-on-one headshot sessions with Bouquet while everyone practices their pitch, meets other students and enjoys drinks and snacks.
- Closing
Takeaways, a look at upcoming Heritage and Hope events, and a group photo.
Thank you to Bash & Brew for hosting us and providing the coffee.
Past Workshops
SPRING 2026 · SATURDAY, APRIL 4, 2026
Writing Your Story: Discovering Your Asian American Identity
The Julian, Downtown Orlando | Led by Kar-Lai Gambiroza, poet and creative writing workshop leader
On Saturday, April 4, high school students gathered at The Julian in Downtown Orlando for our Heritage & Hope Launch Day Celebration — an interactive creative writing workshop led by poet and creative writing leader Kar-Lai Gambiroza.
Highlights from the Day
Connecting Across Cultures
Students explored the idea of “The Bridge” between dual cultures — discussing shared experiences, family traditions, and building meaningful connections beyond the classroom.
The "I Am From" Writing Exercise
Guided by structured reflection worksheets, participants explored family heritage, influential figures, sensory memories, and personal traditions to craft their own unique story or poem.
Sharing Our Voices
Each student stepped up to read their piece aloud to the group. It was an inspiring session filled with authenticity, deep listening, and a celebration of unique roots.
Moments from the Day
Special Thanks to Our Event Sponsors
We extend our sincere gratitude to our generous sponsors, whose support made this launch event possible for our community.
- The Julian Apartments — host venue, Downtown Orlando
- Impress Ink — custom journals and event merchandise
- Blended Bistro & Boba — boba and refreshments
- A Gourmet Chinese Cuisine — lunch for students and volunteers
- Lotte Plaza Market — snacks and supplies
Want to join the next one?
Our workshops are free for high school students and spots are limited. Check our events page for what’s coming up next.