HERE ARE YOUR 2025 BUSINESS AWARDS
Finalists
Business of the Year Finalists
This award identifies and recognizes an AAPI-owned business that has made a significant contribution to the community while supporting the economic growth of the community it serves by practicing great work ethics, processes and systems at their business to provide quality service/product to their customers. Must be an operational and profitable business for at least 30 months.
Naly’s Floral Shop
We are Tou Lor and Naly Jasengnou, proud owners of Naly’s Floral Shop. For the past eight years, we have been honored to serve Madison and the surrounding communities with beautiful floral designs.
As a full-service flower shop, we specialize in weddings, funerals, and everyday celebrations such as birthdays and anniversaries. We also create custom centerpieces for corporate events and provide holiday gifts for businesses. Our services include local delivery to homes, hospitals, and offices.
Our journey began at the Dane County Farmers Market, where we managed a stand before opening our storefront inside the Northgate Shopping Center. That experience rooted our passion for flowers and community, leading us to where we are today.
To us, flowers are more than arrangements—they spread love, joy, and comfort. Our goal is to design pieces that leave a lasting impression during life’s celebrations and bring solace during difficult times.
Sweet Basil MKE
Sweet Basil blossomed from Vanna’s lifelong dream of owning a restaurant. While working tirelessly to support her family, she found comfort in cooking traditional family recipes but longed to share her food on a larger scale. Inspired by her passion, Vanna’s children rallied behind her vision.
Taking on multiple jobs, her kids diligently saved—from McDonald’s wages to dishwashing tips—until they were able to make her dream a reality. At just 21, 19, and 17 years old, they surprised Vanna with her very own restaurant.
Through the challenges of the pandemic and other hardships, the family poured their love and flavorful Thai and Lao recipes into Sweet Basil. Today, Vanna’s dedication as head chef remains the heart of the business she once only dreamed of. Her food not only nourishes but also carries the spirit of family, hope, and perseverance.
Emerging Small Business of the Year Finalists
This award recognizes an AAPI-owned small business that has demonstrated significant growth and success in the areas of economics, job creation and market demand. Must be an operational and profitable business for at least 18 months.
1st Street Autobody
Founded in Wisconsin Rapids, 1st Street Autobody is a locally owned and family-operated repair shop built on the dedication of brothers Der Thao and Ge Thao. With more than 35 years of combined experience in autobody and mechanical work, they bring a personal touch to every vehicle they service.
Der, a licensed autobody technician trained at North Technical College, has spent over 15 years perfecting the art of collision repair. He treats every car as if it were his own, ensuring workmanship of the highest quality. Ge, a licensed auto mechanic trained at Universal Technical Institute in Chicago, brings over 20 years of hands-on expertise. His journey through various cities always led him back to Wisconsin Rapids—his true home.
Together, the Thao brothers have built a shop that values honesty, quality, and community. From minor dents to major overhauls, 1st Street Autobody is committed to restoring vehicles with precision and pride.
Weld + Arrow
Weld + Arrow is a jewelry studio dedicated to creating timeless, meaningful pieces as unique as the people who wear them. Specializing in custom-fit, micro-welded chains, we offer an elevated experience where each bracelet, anklet, or necklace is welded directly on—no clasp, no fuss, just effortless elegance designed to last for years.
Every piece is more than jewelry—it’s a memory, a bond, and a story you can carry every day. From celebrating milestones and friendships to marking personal achievements, our work blends modern minimalism with enduring sentiment. Founded on a love for fine craftsmanship and connection, Weld + Arrow is where luxury meets personal meaning. Whether in-studio or at one of our pop-up events, every guest leaves with more than jewelry—they leave with a piece of themselves made permanent.
New Startup Business of the Year Finalist
This award recognizes an AAPI-owned new business startup that has demonstrated an upward trajectory towards sustainability and growth, while venturing into non-traditional business development industries. Must be an operational and profitable business for at least 12 months.
Designs by Aemi
Aemi Cruz is the CEO and founder of Designs by Aemi, a 3D and laser-engraved home décor and custom signage business she launched with her husband and COO, Marc Cruz. The idea was born in 2021, shortly after the couple purchased their first home in Sheboygan Falls, WI. While on maternity leave and adjusting to a new community, Aemi noticed her home lacked the cultural art and connection she grew up with. Inspired by her heritage and fueled by creativity, she began designing custom door signs that incorporated traditional Hmong elements.
What started as a personal project quickly gained traction. After sharing her work on Facebook, Aemi received overwhelming encouragement and custom requests, sparking the idea to turn her passion into a business. Towards the end of 2021, Designs by Aemi officially launched.
As the brand grew, so did its offerings. From simple door signs, the collection expanded into 3D laser-engraved family frames, cutout frames, keyholders, logo signs, and more—each piece thoughtfully designed to reflect both heritage and home. Marc hand-cuts all their wood from locally sourced materials, while Aemi applies her intricate designs. Their work gained momentum at Hmong tournaments and New Year celebrations, earning them regional recognition and a loyal customer base.
From humble beginnings in their dining room and garage, Aemi and Marc proudly expanded into their own warehouse in July 2025. Through it all, their mission has remained the same: to create meaningful décor that celebrates culture, identity, and family.
Bambu - Green Bay
Opened by Danny Thao and Nadine Lee, Bambu – Green Bay brings the nationally recognized Bambu franchise to the local community, offering a wide variety of authentic, Asian-inspired drinks and desserts. The café features fresh fruit teas, creamy smoothies, Vietnamese coffees, refreshing chè (a traditional Vietnamese dessert), and mochi waffles—all made with real ingredients and bold flavors.
Since its opening, Bambu – Green Bay has become a go-to destination for both Asian American families seeking a taste of home and new customers eager to explore fresh, innovative flavors. Danny and Nadine’s vision has been to create not only a dessert shop, but also a welcoming space where culture and community come together over food and drink.
Professional of the Year Award (40+) Finalists
This award recognizes an AAPI professional who has achieved significant milestones in their professional career, elevating the community with their accomplishments.
Kerry Yang
Kerry Yang serves as the Community Liaison and Special Events Coordinator for the City of Green Bay Mayor’s Office, where she coordinates two Hmong advisory councils and one Latino advisory council, while also serving on multiple community committees.
She is the co-founder and President of Hmong Autism Neurodiverse Disability Support—the first nonprofit in Wisconsin dedicated to supporting Hmong children with special needs. Inspired by her son, who is diagnosed with autism, Kerry has been a tireless advocate for building inclusive resources for families.
In recognition of her work, Kerry was recently named one of the 20 Most Influential Asian American Leaders for 2025. She has spearheaded initiatives such as establishing Hmong Business Week in May and organizing the local Hmong New Year celebration. Kerry earned her B.A. in English from the University of Wisconsin–Madison and lives in Green Bay with her son and partner.
Toan “Tone” Ly
Toan “Tone” Ly is the Agency Principal and President of Rectify Services LLC, where he has dedicated more than 24 years to providing trusted insurance solutions and strategic guidance for individuals, families, and businesses. A graduate of Marquette University, Toan has built his career on a foundation of integrity, innovation, and results.
As a member of the Strategic Independent Agents Alliance (SIAA)—the nation’s largest alliance of independent insurance agents—he has consistently ranked among its top performers, earning recognition as a Top 10 Producer for SIA of the Great Lakes in 2024 and a Top 10 Insurance Agent five times over the past decade.
Beyond his professional success, Toan is an active leader in the business and nonprofit community. He currently serves as Board President of the Wisconsin Chinese Chamber of Commerce and is a Founding Board Member of AREAA Greater Milwaukee, advancing opportunities in homeownership and generational wealth within the AAPI community. He has also contributed as a Committee Member for the Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation’s Governor’s Conference on Diverse Business Development.
Respected for both his expertise and his dedication to service, Toan Ly exemplifies leadership that bridges business success with community impact.
Professional of the Year Award (39 & under) Finalists
This award recognizes an AAPI professional who is an emerging leader who showcases their passion and drive to move the community forward through their innovative community projects and efforts.
Mai Nu Vang
With more than 18 years of experience, Mai Nu Vang has dedicated her career to advancing education, cultural preservation, and community development. She holds a Master’s degree in Human Services Leadership, a double Bachelor’s degree in Elementary and ESL Education, and three minors in Math, Science, and Bilingual–Hmong. As a proud Hmong American educator, she has worked to strengthen the workforce and foster a positive student population.
Her leadership and contributions have earned her recognition as one of Madison 365’s Top 40 Most Influential Asian American Leaders in Wisconsin, Insight Publications’ Top 40 Under 40, and the Greater Green Bay Chamber’s Future 15 Young Professional Award. She has served on numerous community planning committees, including the 2025 Hmong Wausau Festival. Currently, she is on the Board of Directors for ACEL–NEW and serves as Dance Manager for Nkauj Zaj Dance Academy.
Additionally, Mai Nu is the Founder and President of Maiv Passion Foundation, Ltd., a nonprofit dedicated to uplifting Hmong youth through academics, athletics, culture, and the arts.
Nou Yang
Nou Yang is a registered nurse, entrepreneur, and community leader committed to bridging healthcare, beauty, and wellness. She is the founder of Rejuva Wellness & Aesthetics in Green Bay, WI, where she specializes in advanced medical aesthetics, laser skincare, and wellness therapies. She is also the Director of Nursing and owner of Generations of Care, a Medicaid-approved home healthcare agency that provides essential services to underserved populations, with a focus on Hmong, Laotian, and Southeast Asian communities.
As a proud Asian American woman, mother, and first-generation nurse entrepreneur, Nou is passionate about empowering others through education, mentorship, and accessible care. She is currently pursuing her Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner degree while continuing to grow her businesses and create innovative opportunities for women and minority entrepreneurs across Wisconsin.