Saturday, October 19
Part 5: 7:30 pm - 9:30 pm
Film Short: The Well
Featured Film: Unbroken Ties
Q&A Discussion with Producer Peter K. Yap, Valerie Sheibels, Joyce Lin Costello
Moderated by Dr. Xi Zhao-Wilson
Film Short:The Well
An Asian-American man drives from his home in Chicago to a small lake town in rural Iowa, to confront a bar owner with whom he suspects he shares a traumatic childhood experience. What ensues is a tension-filled night where two men must find the courage to be honest and vulnerable with each other.
FEature Film: Unbroken ties
In the 1990s, "Unbroken Ties" captivates with the story of Min, a grown-up orphaned Burmese man who embarks on a journey to find his place in America after securing a US diversity visa. As he navigates his new life, Min unravels a web of secrets, betrayals, and connections that challenge his identity, friendships, and sense of belonging. This potent film celebrates immigrant, mother, and LGBTQA resilience, illuminating the global struggles of orphans and minorities. Their unyielding determination shines, crafting a heartfelt portrayal of hope and the indomitable human spirit.
Q&A GUESTS
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Peter K Yap - Producer, Unbroken Ties
Peter K. Yap, born in Rangoon, Burma (Yangon, Myanmar), is a renowned Asian American Indie Filmmaker and Music Producer. He made waves with his groundbreaking charity film "Myittar, aka Unbroken Ties (Festival Screenings 2024)," a joint U.S. and Myanmar production that follows an orphan's inspiring quest for purpose. In addition to this achievement, Mr. Yap is a Producer and Executive Producer for the acclaimed short film "Family Fiction (2022)," selected in over ten festivals and won at Shenzhen International Film Festivals. This thought-provoking work explores family fractures and the consequences of infidelity and divorce. Beyond his cinematic endeavors, Mr. Yap holds an unwavering belief in the power of filmmaking to unite people through curiosity and imagination. He envisions filmmakers as architects of emotion, shaping shared experiences that can influence the course of history. His mission is clear: to share stories that resonate with the human soul, inspiring all to become better citizens of the world. Beyond his work, he actively supports orphaned children through the Mary K. Yap Foundation's nonprofit. Education plays a pivotal role in Mr. Yap's journey, as he holds a Bachelor of Science Degree in International Business from San Francisco State University, a Master of Business Administration Degree from the Middlebury Institute of International Studies at Monterey, and proudly elevates his status as an Alumni of the Stanford Executive Program at the Graduate School of Business of Stanford University in Palo Alto, California. On a personal note, Mr. Yap cherishes his role as a devoted single father to four remarkable children, exemplifying his commitment to family and community. In every aspect of his life, Peter K. Yap's passion for storytelling and unwavering dedication to uplifting humanity shine brightly, leaving an indelible mark on cinema and beyond.
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JANET HUEY- PRODUCER, THE WELL
As a Filmmaker, Janet’s been known to kickoff her dancing shoes and put on her Producer Hat! She recently Executive Produced her first comedy special, The Life and Divorce of Jacq the Stripper. She has five short films currently headed to the Film Festival Circuit. She is currently in development for three episodic series and two feature films.
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Joyce Lin Costello- Retired High Tech Professional, Art Docent
Joyce Lin Costello is a retired high-tech professional, and is currently an art docent for the Los Altos School District. In her spare time, she is a volleyball referee, and volunteers regularly at MV Community Services. Her hobbies include photography, card making, art, and traveling.
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Valerie Sheibels- Community Advocate, VP at Metropolitan Bank
Valerie Sheibels immigrated to the United States from Myanmar in 1993. She pursued her education at UC Davis and San Francisco State University, earning dual Bachelor of Science degrees in Biochemistry and Physiology. During her academic journey, Valerie won multiple scholarships through beauty pageants, amassing over 12 titles at both local and international levels. She also engaged in professional modeling, participating in ad campaigns for prominent brands such as Panasonic, Citizen Watch, and numerous advertisements in Southeast Asia.
In 2006, Valerie married a U.S. Coast Guard veteran. She now serves as the Vice-President Manager of Commercial Lending at Metropolitan Bank.
For over a decade, Valerie has been a staunch advocate for the Asian communities, the Burmese American community, and the people of Myanmar. She founded the Burmese American Institute for Corporate Responsibility, working tirelessly to bridge gaps between international communities. Her advocacy has significantly impacted victims of natural disasters in Myanmar, contributing to the construction of homes, hospitals, and schools, fostering stronger community ties.
Valerie was recognized as a SHERO award winner in 2022 and was named The Most Influential Woman in 2023.
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DR. XI ZHAO-WILSON-- Moderator
Xi Zhao-Wilson, Ph.D., MBA cofounded BioMarker Pharmaceuticals, Inc., and served as its Chief Executive Officer and President. She is Professor at the Chinese Academy of Preventative Medicine in Beijing.
As a Research Scientist at Stanford Medical Center, Xi conducted research focused on gene regulation in various cancers that are related to steroid hormone receptors. She has more than 15 years experience as a senior executive of startup, early stage, and established companies in the biotech industry.
She served as Corporate Development Executive at Aviron, a biopharmaceutical company that recently merged with MedImmune. She served as Founder and Chief Executive Officer of InCell, a biomedical company. She served as Senior Executive officer at Baekon, a biotech company. She serves as Chairperson of BioMarker Pharmaceuticals, Inc. Dr. Zhao-Wilson serves as Director of BioMarker Pharmaceuticals, Inc. She served as Director of Baekon.
Xi has been awarded four U.S. patents and has published numerous research articles and book chapters. She has successfully obtained research funding through an SBIR Grant from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and an award from the Katharine McCormick Fund. She has also lectured extensively at international research institutions including the U.S. National Institutes of Health, the Max-Planck-Institute in Germany and at numerous universities in the U.S., China, and European countries.