First Light: Asian Short Film Screening & Cultural Celebration
Join us for a day of cinema, culture, and conversation. Three vibrant organizations—Viet Creative Society, Taiwanese American Professionals (TAP), and Fuzhou America—have curated an entire afternoon showcasing the richness of Asian storytelling through film and dialogue.
More than just a screening, this is a glimpse into the voices of Asian filmmakers, a celebration of heritage, and a rare chance to connect with artists and communities over shared stories.
From intimate narratives to visionary experimental films, these artists explore identity, heritage, and the modern diaspora with striking originality. Join us in celebrating the future of Asian cinema.
//tickets
$20
//schedule
Introduction
1pm – Doors Open / Guest Arrival (Mingling + Light Refreshments)
120pm – Opening Remarks (Festival Organizers & Collaborators)
Screening + Q&A Discussion
130pm – Shenghan Gao: My Name人如其名 (15 min) + Discussion (10 min)
155pm – Masataka Ishizaki: The BiodiverCity (15 min) + Discussion (10 min)
220pm – Short Break / Mingling (10 min)
230pm – Vivek Menon: Showtime (15 min) + Discussion (10 min)
255pm – Artemisia Luk: Both, And (15 min) + Discussion (10 min)
320pm – Extended Break / Mingling (20 min)
340pm – Wonsik Choi: 1 in 300 Million (15 min) + Discussion (10 min)
405pm – Siqin Bian: Various (15 min) + Discussion (10 min)
Conclusion
430pm – 5PM Closing Remarks & Group Thank You, Networking & Mingling (Final Refreshments), Event Ends.
//Cultural Tastings (All Afternoon!)
Savor the flavors of Asia with:
Taiwanese specialty teas from UsTwoTea (a fragrant, handcrafted experience)
Vietnamese Bánh Da Lợn (layered pandan-coconut steamed cake)
Fujianese snacks (traditional bites from Southern China)
Global Popcorn Bar – A cinematic twist!
//about the host
Viet Creative Society is a group dedicated to bringing together and highlighting Vietnamese artists and other Southeast Asian creatives across NYC.
Fuzhou America is the primary organization dedicated to fostering Fuzhou American history, culture, and community.
TAP’s mission is to enhance the Taiwanese-American community by networking individuals interested in professional and career development, while emphasizing the preservation of Taiwanese American identity.