Meet Kumi Alderman | Executive Director of Asian Culture Center of TN

We had the good fortune of connecting with Kumi Alderman and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Kumi, let’s start by talking about what inspires you?
I am inspired by the Colors, Foods, dancing, singing, craftsmanship, music instruments and Costumes. I have traveled all over the world as a tour-conductor for several years based in Tokyo, I was amazed how each cultures has their own way to express their life. I believe in Festival is the celebration and appreciation of our life. I still remember the smell of Australia, Music in Germany, Foods in China, Craftsmanship in Italy, Dancing in Spain, and much much more. All my body senses absolved the impressive cultures. I am inspired by people’s life.

What should our readers know about your business?
The Asian Culture Center of TN (ACCTN) was founded in 2014 with the aim of promoting culture, diversity, and unity in the community. There is so much that a community benefits from every time there is a cultural event organized. People not only develop an open mind about other people and their cultures, but the host community also becomes a center of interest for individuals and organizations looking to boost the economic capacity of that particular community. Therefore, as a highly focused organization interested in developing cultural diversity and understanding in our Tennessee community, we have strongly focused on popularizing the Asian culture, which has grown popular in the area.

Our mission is to create a welcoming community by sharing our Asian Arts and Cultures. The Festival strives to bring together people from various cultural backgrounds, to promote peace, harmony, unity and a healthy lifestyle. We are promoting a diverse and harmonious society that prepares today’s children to take the stage as true global citizens.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
I will take them to the Norris lake to go boating. Beautiful water and nature. Recreation awaits you on Norris Lake with over 800 miles of shoreline, pristine water and fun for the whole family! Whether you like fishing, camping, watersports or simply enjoy the picturesque shoreline, you are sure to be satisfied with Norris Lake.

Next I will take them to Smokey mountain hiking. A truly living mountain range, the Great Smoky Mountains are constantly re-inventing themselves as wind, water, and erosion continuously shape these ageless mountains. Wander the tranquil woods and hills to appreciate what your support can do to protect our nation’s beauty.America’s most visited national park, Great Smoky Mountains, is an ideal getaway. Hike, camp, and experience one of America’s oldest mountain ranges.
Established in 1926, Great Smoky Mountains National Park is comprised of ridge upon ridge of seemingly endless forest on the border between North Carolina and Tennessee. Called the Smokies due to the ever-present morning fog, this mountain range is world renowned for the diversity of its plant and animal life, the beauty of its ancient mountains, and its history of southern Appalachian mountain culture. With nearly 80 historic buildings, spectacular displays of wildflowers, and abundant wildlife, Great Smoky Mountains National Park offers myriad activities to enjoy.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
Sifu Leroy is the Kang Fu/Tai chi teacher at the WAH LUM KANG FU school in Knoxville. He is the ideologist of Knox Asian Festival. He is always sees the future and helps to include everyone to make changes. I really respect him as a person.

Christine Silavong is our board member. She is a owner of Plum Tree restaurant in Knoxville. She is the backbone of Knox Asian Festival. She understands our mission and support support Festival for 10 years.

David Alderman is our board member. He always brings a great idea to make Festival vibrant and Fun. He is a idea man for our festival. He is the one took 20 tents for first Knox Asian Festival and made it happen.

Mahagi Lacure is a Japanese group leader. She came first Knox Asian Festival to play Japanese Shamisen and now she teaches about 30 students. She is a great leader of Japanese group.

Lieutenant General Lawrence D. Nicholson is a security Manager for our Festival. He has been stationed all over the world. So he is very open to other culture prople. He and Andre Harrell is a very kind and giving person. They borough 60 retired officers to Protect our Knox Asian Festival as volunteer security.

Ruth Utami is Indonesian leader and volunteer leader. She has very well management skills and helped Knox Asian festival goes well.

Jula Connatser is Thailand leader who has been leader for 10 years. Her commitment to make this Festival happen is a great energy. Her family is very supportive and they produce a beautiful dance.

Amudha Vaz is a Indian leader who is committed to share indian Cultures in Knox Asian Festival. She has a passion to support the school to help woman to get skilled in India. She fundraise in the Festival and donate to this school.

Ling Hidalg & Paul Catuncan are Phillipine Leaders who committed to share the Phillipine arts Culture. This group of people loves singing and dancing. Every year they produce a wonderful performance.

Gina Wilson is a Korean leader. She is a president of Korean Association. She has invited a beautiful Fan dancers and had a Korean introduction Booth.

Dan Wang and Micheal Smith is the Chinese leader. They have been producing a great performance for 10 years. Especially they involve with local students.

Grace Wu is the Taiwan leader. She has a passion to educate younger generation. Taiwan students normally come to perform on the stage.

Asian White is the emcee for Knox Asian Festival. She helped 1st Knox Asian Festival when she was still University student,

We also appreciate all sponsors who support us. Without their support, We will not be able to organize Knox Asian Festival.
Thank you so much. https://www.knoxasianfestival.com/sponsor/

We thank you to All Volunteers. Volunteers are the engine of our Success. We are so impressed how many Volunteers came and helped us in 2023. Some of them has been helping us almost 10 years. Thank you so much.

New project is Japan outreach initiative program. Mana Muramatsu is with us for 2 years from japan. Her mission is to raise awareness about Japan among Americans. Build stronger bonds between the two countries.

Website: https://www.knoxasianfestival.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/knoxasianfestival/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/asian-festival-572a01102/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/knoxasianfestival/

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Rl6btn_3ejY

Image Credits
Bill foster