Michael Fong is the President of the Asian Real Estate Association of America (AREAA) Brooklyn Chapter, a non-profit organization that promotes homeownership and economic empowerment for the Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) community. With over 10 years of experience in the New York City government, he is a growth and compliance expert who has led and supported various initiatives to help small businesses thrive in the city. He leverages his background in business and data analysis to conduct rigorous evaluations, generate insightful reports, and optimize operations for the Business Services Division of the Department of Small Business Services (SBS), where he served as the Executive Director of Government Navigation and the Director of Compliance and Growth. He also has a passion for teaching and mentoring new staff, ensuring they have the skills and knowledge to succeed in their roles. Michael's interest in entrepreneurship and real estate stems from his upbringing in an immigrant family that ran multiple businesses in different industries. He understands the challenges and opportunities that immigrant entrepreneurs face in the city, and he advocates for their rights and interests through his leadership at AREAA. He also holds several certifications in food safety, occupational health, and responsible alcohol service, reflecting his commitment to quality and excellence.