30 Under 30 San Diego County Leader No. 25: Nikki Lam

At 25, Nikki Lam is the president of the Vietnamese American Youth Alliance and oversees an annual festival that attracts 20,000 to San Diego.

Though her initial attraction to the organization was based on the "pure fun," Lam learned the importance of the organization's mission to carry on Vietnamese culture in the U.S. and especially among first-generation Vietnamese-Americans. On a personal level, Lam said she has grown as a leader.

"Every year involved unleashed a new capability that I never knew I have," she said. "Each experience gave me more ideas on how I can better myself as an organizer and a leader; it teaches me to be calmer, more patient and considerate, especially when working with people. These lessons encouraged me to continue my commitment so I can share my knowledge with my peers and show them a same experience."

Lam, who said her biggest accomplishment was earning the organization a $20,000 sponsorship deal, said she hopes to enter the film industry and open a center for Vietnamese-American women so that she can continue to share the stories of Vietnamese-Americans.

Advice for young people:

1. Practice listening more as it will lead to more effective communication.

2. Try to incorporate proactive word choices in everyday conversation and thinking. This is one way to achieve the "can-do" attitude.

3. Smile as much as possible as it attracts positivity.