2025 workshops' Facilitators and Panelists
National Hmong Disability Virtual Conference
“Building for Tomorrow at the Intersection of Hmong Culture & Disability”
| workshop
| Exploring Identity at the Intersection of Hmong Culture and Disability
| Type: Panel Workshop
| Type: Panel Workshop
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Panou Xiong, Facilitator
Panou Xiong – Disability Justice Facilitator and Community Advocate Panou Xiong is a dedicated mother, wife, and community advocate with a deep commitment to supporting individuals with disabilities. Her journey as a caregiver and provider extends beyond her family into her professional and community roles, where she strives to create meaningful change. With extensive experience in social service, Panou has worked as a Department Supervisor for 245D programs, providing support to individuals with developmental disabilities (DD/IDD) and expanding her expertise to serve those with mental illness (MI), chemical dependency (CD), and co-occurring conditions. She currently supervises services for 48 clients and leads a team of 22 staff members, leveraging her problem-solving skills to find solutions and improve lives. Panou's work is driven by a passion for dismantling the stigma surrounding disabilities and educating communities about the potential for their loved ones to live happy, supported lives. Her expertise includes person-centered language, motivational interviewing, and supporting individuals with mental health diagnoses, including manic depression. Committed to systemic change, Panou focuses on creating and sharing resources to empower individuals and families. She advocates for training and education as tools to dismantle stigma and promote inclusion. Her appointment by the Governor of Minnesota to the Mental Health and Developmental Disabilities Committee for the Office of the Ombudsman highlights her leadership and dedication to advancing disability justice. Panou believes that meaningful change begins with active involvement. As a workshop facilitator, she aims to inspire participants with actionable insights, resources, and strategies to build more inclusive and supportive communities. Maychee Mua, Panelist
Maychee Mua (she/her) – Disability Inclusion Advocate, Innovator, and Author Maychee Mua is a trailblazing public servant, passionate advocate, and empowering leader committed to fostering equity, inclusion, and systemic change. With over 20 years of experience spanning early education and healthcare, Maychee has dedicated her life to breaking barriers and creating opportunities for individuals and families in Minnesota and beyond. In addition to her government roles, Maychee contributes her expertise as a board member for several nonprofit organizations, championing community-focused initiatives. Since 2001, she has been deeply involved in the early education and healthcare sectors, making a lasting impact on countless lives. As the coauthor of the beloved Hmong children's book "I Am a Hmong-American Child," Maychee celebrates cultural identity and belonging. This transformative experience ignited her passion for public policy, particularly in healthcare, where she focuses on ensuring equitable access for all Minnesotans and addressing the unique needs of children. Her career is defined by impactful milestones, including her instrumental role in launching Minnesota's first autism Medicaid program for children under 21, paving the way for countless families to access critical care. Her policy work also extends to housing, behavioral health, and advocacy for individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing, demonstrating her commitment to addressing diverse community needs. Maychee is well-versed in navigating systemic challenges associated with cultural differences and stigma. She has significantly contributed to Minnesota's policy and legislative efforts. By sharing her personal journey as a parent advocating for neurodivergent loved ones, including herself, she continues to aid state government and cultural communities across Minnesota in shifting perspectives on acceptance and understanding how to be more inclusive. Maychee’s academic achievements include a nursing degree, a Bachelor of Science in Human Services with a minor in Family Studies, and a Master’s in Public Administration. Outside of her professional accomplishments, she is a loving mother of three and continues to shape policies and programs that make a lasting impact. As a panelist for UHD’s 2025 National Virtual Hmong Disability Conference, Maychee brings her profound insights, compassionate leadership, and inspiring vision. Her presence will energize and empower participants, sparking transformative conversations that celebrate diversity, challenge stigma, and champion disability justice. Kong Lee, Panelist
Kong Lee – Advocate, Social Worker, and Disability Rights Champion Kong is a dedicated social justice advocate, husband, and father of two, residing on the West Coast. With a Bachelor of Arts in Social Work from California State University, Fresno, and certifications in Adult Mental Health First Aid through the National Council for Mental Wellbeing, Kong brings a wealth of knowledge and a compassionate approach to his work. As Vice President of the Asian Social Work Organization at CSU Fresno, Kong has been instrumental in fostering inclusion and support for diverse communities. His volunteer and professional experience with the Valley Center for the Blind in Fresno has further solidified his commitment to disability advocacy. Kong’s personal journey as a visually impaired individual has deeply shaped his mission to dismantle the stigma surrounding disability. He views his experience as an opportunity to challenge misconceptions, inspire others, and demonstrate that disabilities do not define limitations but call for innovative perspectives. Through his advocacy on campus and in the broader Hmong community, Kong works to increase awareness, improve access to resources, and foster meaningful change. He is passionate about empowering individuals, amplifying marginalized voices, and creating a more inclusive society for all. Debbie Xiong-Wong, Panelist
Debbie Xiong-Wong – Public Health Nurse, Advocate, and Deaf Community Leader Debbie is a deaf Hmong woman who became deaf at the age of five due to an ear infection in both ears. She currently resides in Fairfax, Virginia, with her husband and their three children. Debbie is a dedicated professional working as a Public Health Nurse and School Nurse at the Fairfax Health Department, where she provides critical health support and education to her community. Outside of her professional life, Debbie enjoys a rich and fulfilling personal life. She has a passion for creative pursuits like sewing and cooking, often crafting handmade items and experimenting with culinary delights in her kitchen. An avid lover of the outdoors, she spends her leisure time hiking and biking with her family, exploring the beauty of Virginia's trails and natural landscapes. As a panelist at UHD’s 2025 National Virtual Hmong Disability Conference, Debbie shares her lived experiences, professional expertise, and passion for equity. She is excited to foster meaningful discussions that challenge stigma, celebrate diversity, and champion systemic change. , Panelist
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| Workshop
| Bridging the Gap: Understanding Mental Health, Disability Challenges, and the Resiliency Within
| Type: Interactive Workshop
| Type: Interactive Workshop
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Mang Shaper, Facilitator
Mang Shaper (she/her) – Advocate, Disability Specialist, and Workshop Facilitator Mang Shaper is a dedicated professional, community advocate, and passionate presenter based in Philadelphia. As a wife and mother of two, she cherishes her family, which inspires her commitment to building inclusive and supportive communities. In her professional role as the Director of Quality Management at Liberty Resources, Inc.—Philadelphia’s Center for Independent Living—Mang oversees programs that enhance the quality of life for individuals with disabilities. With a background in social work, she has dedicated her career to breaking down barriers, driving policy changes, and creating equitable systems in healthcare and disability services. She also serves as a Board Member for the Wyss Wellness Center, where she contributes to initiatives that promote health equity. Mang is deeply committed to the intersection of mental health and disability advocacy. Her lived experiences and professional expertise inform her belief that addressing mental health within the context of disability is vital to fostering resilience, dignity, and holistic well-being. As a Board Member for United Hmong with Disabilities (UHD), she strives to amplify the voices of marginalized communities, particularly those at the intersection of disability and mental health. When not empowering others through her work, Mang enjoys sewing paj ntaub (Hmong cross-stitch), an art form that connects her to her cultural roots and serves as a meditative practice. For Mang, storytelling—whether through needlework, policy advocacy, or public speaking—is a powerful way to build bridges and inspire change. Mang is excited to serve as a workshop facilitator and host, using her voice to elevate the conversation on mental health and disability while championing resilience and inclusivity. |
| workshop
| Navigating Resources – Voices of Disability Advocates and Service Providers
| Type: Panel Discussion
| Type: Panel Discussion
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Gaochi Vang, Facilitator
Gaochi Vang – Advocate, Disability Justice Champion and Workshop Facilitator Gaochi Vang (she/her) is a passionate Hmong American advocate, writer, and facilitator from Wisconsin. Deeply grounded in her roles as a daughter, sister, friend, and storyteller, she believes in the power of collectivism and uses her individual voice to create transformative change for her community. Gaochi holds a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology with a minor in Women’s and Gender Studies from the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire and is pursuing a Master of Science in Psychology with a specialization in Social Psychology at Walden University. As the Peer Specialist Program Manager at Access to Independence, Gaochi excels in leading training sessions and fostering discussions that promote disability awareness and inclusion. Her expertise in facilitation is complemented by her work in mental health, where she connects individual identities to mental well-being and empowers others to embrace their lived experiences. Gaochi's personal journey with her disability has been one of growth and acceptance. Once a part of her identity she avoided, it is now a source of strength and motivation that drives her commitment to disability justice. She is dedicated to creating spaces where individuals with disabilities feel seen, valued, and empowered to thrive. In her role as a workshop facilitator, Gaochi brings her lived experiences, professional expertise, and passion for storytelling to the forefront. She aims to foster dialogue, build connections, and inspire actionable change through inclusive and engaging workshops. Gaochi is honored to collaborate with others in amplifying the voices of Hmong individuals with disabilities and advocating for systemic change. She is committed to using her skills to educate, empower, and create a more inclusive future for all. As a workshop facilitator for UHD’s 2025 National Virtual Hmong Disability Conference, Gaochi brings her expertise, lived experiences, and storytelling passion to create transformative, inclusive, and engaging discussions that inspire action and connection. Sue Yang, Panelist
Sue Yang (she/her) – Empowering Voices, Breaking Barriers, and Celebrating Abilities for All Sue is a disability advocate from Greater Minnesota with lived experience as a woman with a disability. Growing up in a first-generation Hmong American family, Sue didn’t fully understand what it meant to be disabled. She often felt misunderstood in school, as she appeared “normal” and could do many of the same things as other kids. As a child, she simply navigated the world like any other young person. It wasn’t until after high school, when Sue was referred to a secondary transition school, that she began to understand her disability more fully, especially after reviewing her IEP from grade school. This experience helped her accept herself and embrace her disability. Sue is passionate about community work, volunteering, and disability justice. She believes in leading by example, which is why she is actively involved in outreach and volunteer efforts. Her advocacy work includes time spent giving back to her community through organizations like Northpoint Health and Wellness Center and supporting events such as the Minnesota Special Olympics. She has also served as a guest MC and speaker at various events, using her voice to spread awareness about disability rights and inclusion. Sue has also competed in pageantry and was crowned Princess Miss Amazing MN in 2015 with Miss Amazing Inc., a pageant that provides opportunities for girls and women with disabilities to build self-confidence in a supportive environment. Additionally, Sue was crowned National Queen in 2017 of American Majestic Ms. Diversity Pageantry, which aims to shine light on everyone’s abilities. She has supported other participants as an ambassador, helping others to find their own strength and confidence. One of Sue’s favorite quotes is, "Never judge a book by its cover," a reminder to look beyond appearances and to understand the full story of every individual. As a panelist for UHD’s 2025 National Virtual Hmong Disability Conference, she will share her personal journey of embracing her identity and the challenges she has faced as a person with a disability. Her insights will highlight the power of self-advocacy, resilience, and collective action in driving change and fostering inclusion. Maychee Mua, Panelist
Maychee Mua (she/her) – Disability Inclusion Advocate, Innovator, and Author Maychee Mua is a trailblazing public servant, passionate advocate, and empowering leader committed to fostering equity, inclusion, and systemic change. With over 20 years of experience spanning early education and healthcare, Maychee has dedicated her life to breaking barriers and creating opportunities for individuals and families in Minnesota and beyond. In addition to her government roles, Maychee contributes her expertise as a board member for several nonprofit organizations, championing community-focused initiatives. Since 2001, she has been deeply involved in the early education and healthcare sectors, making a lasting impact on countless lives. As the coauthor of the beloved Hmong children's book "I Am a Hmong-American Child," Maychee celebrates cultural identity and belonging. This transformative experience ignited her passion for public policy, particularly in healthcare, where she focuses on ensuring equitable access for all Minnesotans and addressing the unique needs of children. Her career is defined by impactful milestones, including her instrumental role in launching Minnesota's first autism Medicaid program for children under 21, paving the way for countless families to access critical care. Her policy work also extends to housing, behavioral health, and advocacy for individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing, demonstrating her commitment to addressing diverse community needs. Maychee is well-versed in navigating systemic challenges associated with cultural differences and stigma. She has significantly contributed to Minnesota's policy and legislative efforts. By sharing her personal journey as a parent advocating for neurodivergent loved ones, including herself, she continues to aid state government and cultural communities across Minnesota in shifting perspectives on acceptance and understanding how to be more inclusive. Maychee’s academic achievements include a nursing degree, a Bachelor of Science in Human Services with a minor in Family Studies, and a Master’s in Public Administration. Outside of her professional accomplishments, she is a loving mother of three and continues to shape policies and programs that make a lasting impact. As a panelist for UHD’s 2025 National Virtual Hmong Disability Conference, Maychee brings her profound insights, compassionate leadership, and inspiring vision. Her presence will energize and empower participants, sparking transformative conversations that celebrate diversity, challenge stigma, and champion disability justice. Keeri Tramm, Panelist
Keeri Tramm – Champion for Disability Inclusion, Strategic Innovator, and Community Advocate Keeri Tramm is the Director of Disability Initiatives at Lifeworks, where she leads efforts to promote disability inclusion and empowerment. An Autistic professional, she has a background spanning both the nonprofit and for-profit sectors, with expertise in business and data analysis to drive impactful change. Keeri holds a degree in Special Education and has extensive experience as a case manager and assessor in both Oregon and Minnesota for individuals with I/DD co-occurring with SPMI. --, Panelist
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| workshop
| Building Change Together – Collaboration for Disability Inclusion
| Type: Interactive Workshop
| Type: Interactive Workshop
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Suzie Vue, Facilitator
Suzie Vue (she/ her) - Community Program Director, Youth Advocate, and Workshop Facilitator Suzie Vue is an experienced Community Program Director with a passion for youth development and community engagement. Suzie's extensive background includes roles as a facilitator, youth mental health trainer, and youth worker, where she has been dedicated to empowering young people and enhancing community well-being. Her research interests primarily focus on youth development strategies and community program effectiveness, aligning with her commitment to creating impactful initiatives that foster growth and resilience in young individuals and . She is an active community member and works closely with non-profit organizations, where she collaborates with like-minded professionals to drive positive change in underserved and underrepresented communities. |
