"As a second-generation Filipino American that has entered the professional world, I have observed my own journey from a compliant, obedient, submissive employee to a leader who brings value and inspires those around me. I recognized that there are factors related to the bamboo ceiling which involve my own Filipino upbringing. It is necessary for us to notice our cultural makeup and find ways to bridge the gap to develop leadership behaviors.   After conducting research on 473 Filipino Americans, I found that strong Filipino interpersonal norms are related to low assertiveness. Now I speak to audiences to tell them why and how to be more assertive. This topic is relevant not only to Asians but to professionals from all backgrounds. We struggle with assertiveness because we don't want to be mean and ugly. My message is that assertiveness is not rude. It is a form of communicating that is FIRM while still being calm and respectful.   I speak on cultural dexterity which allows employees and leaders to be more productive, more collaborative, and more successful. I speak on emotional intelligence and unconscious bias and the best practical strategies to make change immediately." - Dr. Abby Hamilton