Yee-Sum is motivated by putting theory into practice. Because she believes that problems are solved best when broken down into their parts, her problem-solving approach is systematic and structured. She applies this approach to innovative thinking about how to blend social impact causes, serving both people and the planet.
Prior to joining Blue Garnet, Yee-Sum worked as an IT support consultant, where she assisted in both the diagnosis and solutions of IT service issues, while also developing the empathetic, people-centered approach that she now takes to everything she does. She also amassed a range of experiences through internships in corporate financial planning and analysis, and at environmentally-focused social enterprises.
Yee-Sum graduated from the University of Southern California in May 2021 with a B.A. in International Relations and an emphasis in Global Business. In her studies, she focused on the profitable intersection of public institutions and private business–how business skills and tools can be utilized to empower public institutions. Also passionate about advancing educational equity, she has volunteered with Los Angeles Unified School District students and teachers, as well as with private educational institutions.
Yee-Sum’s hobbies include running and traveling. She is also a huge music nerd, with a special love for musical comedy songs (a genre in which she herself writes) and vocal jazz.
Get to know Yee-Sum:
Top 5 strengths: Strategic, Learner, Relator, Responsibility, Empathy
What’s your “why?”
The challenges our world faces can feel insurmountable sometimes, but it doesn’t have to be that way. I grew up in a family of teachers, so the importance of learning was impressed upon me from an early age. The educators in my life encouraged me to think critically about why things work the way they do, how they can be better, and the part I play in making them better. I want to empower others in the same way so we can together make the world a better place.
A movie that never gets old:
“Ms. Congeniality” – I know all the jokes by heart, but they’re still hilarious every time.
Go-to snack:
Kettle corn (the perfect mix of salty and sweet)!
If you had a superpower, what would It be?
Teleportation, because I love to travel but having to fold yourself up on planes gets old (and apparently, there are plans to downsize legroom even more in the future!)