In the bustling city of Los Angeles, amidst the kaleidoscope of cultures and languages, Bonnie Yi Hyde’s journey stands as a testament to the power of determination and compassion. From her roots in mainland China to her role as the founder of the American Born Chinese Foundation, Bonnie’s path has been marked by resilience, empathy, and a relentless commitment to philanthropy.
A Childhood Shaped by Compassion
Born and raised in mainland China, Bonnie’s early years were shaped by a deep sense of empathy and compassion. Growing up in a country where economic disparities were stark, she witnessed firsthand the struggles faced by underprivileged children. It was during one fateful visit to an orphaned girl living in poverty that Bonnie’s passion for philanthropy was ignited. The sight of the young girl, barefoot and playing in the mud, left an indelible mark on Bonnie’s heart and sparked a lifelong desire to make a difference in the lives of children like her.
A Dream of Philanthropy
From a young age, Bonnie harbored a dream of becoming a philanthropist. Inspired by her mother’s acts of kindness and generosity, she envisioned a future where she could empower underprivileged children through education and opportunity.
However, Bonnie believed that philanthropy was something reserved for the wealthy and influential. It wasn’t until later in life, guided by the wisdom of her mentor, Lisa Greer, that Bonnie realized the power of taking action in any capacity, regardless of financial status.
Thus, the seed for the American Born Chinese Foundation was planted—a nonprofit dedicated to promoting bilingual education and cultural inclusion among Chinese-American children.
Filling a Void in Bilingual Literature
Central to the mission of the American Born Chinese Foundation is the promotion of bilingual literature that reflects the experiences of multicultural children. Recognizing a lack of resources in this space, Bonnie took matters into her own hands and authored “I Love Speaking Chinese,” a book designed to teach Chinese language skills to children in an engaging and accessible way.
Through initiatives like the GiftFreeChineseBooks program, the foundation aims to provide free copies of bilingual books to families in need, empowering children to embrace their cultural heritage and language skills.
Overcoming Obstacles with Determination
The journey of building the American Born Chinese Foundation has been fraught with challenges. From navigating bureaucratic hurdles to securing funding for programs, Bonnie has faced numerous obstacles along the way.
Yet, her unwavering determination and commitment to her cause have propelled her forward, inspiring others to join her in creating positive change. Despite the setbacks, Bonnie remains steadfast in her belief that every child deserves access to quality education and resources, regardless of their background or circumstances.
A Community of Empowerment
Beyond the pages of a book, the American Born Chinese Foundation is fostering a vibrant community where multicultural children can thrive and celebrate their unique identities. Through events like the Los Angeles Kids Book Festival, Bonnie aims to create spaces where children can discover the joy of reading while embracing their cultural diversity. By bringing families together and providing access to resources, the foundation is empowering children to embrace their cultural heritage and language skills with pride.
A Heartfelt Tribute
Reflecting on her journey, Bonnie extends a heartfelt tribute to her mother, whose unwavering compassion and resilience have been a guiding light throughout her life. From instilling the values of philanthropy to leading by example, Bonnie’s mother has been a source of inspiration and strength, shaping Bonnie into the compassionate advocate she is today.
A Vision for the Future
As Bonnie looks to the future, her vision is clear: to continue expanding the reach and impact of the American Born Chinese Foundation, touching the lives of even more children and families in need. With her passion, dedication, and unwavering commitment to cultural inclusion, Bonnie Yi Hyde is making a profound difference in the lives of American Born Chinese children and leaving a legacy of compassion and empowerment for generations to come.
Professional Background
Bonnie Hyde’s professional journey reflects a remarkable evolution driven by a desire for personal fulfillment and social impact. Initially following a conventional path, Bonnie pursued a degree in accounting, a choice often typical for many Asian students. She navigated the corporate world, working for traditional accounting firms alongside seasoned professionals.
However, after owning a taxation business and experiencing a midlife crisis, Bonnie embarked on a transformative path. Driven by a passion for education and psychology, she pursued a master’s degree in educational psychology and transitioned into the role of a preschool teacher. This career shift allowed Bonnie to channel her expertise into nurturing young minds, fostering a love for learning, and making a meaningful difference in the lives of children—a testament to her resilience, adaptability, and commitment to personal growth.
