Michelle Wong

Michelle’s unlikely career path began at age seven, acting in commercials, films and as a series regular on network television, where she quickly learned that fighting stereotypes in roles open to Asian-Americans was often harder than winning the part itself.

After college, she landed a job as a chef at London’s Grosvenor Hotel. The creativity and intensity of the culinary world provided a perfect training ground for the world of advertising – and an eye-opening experience for a woman finding her way in a male-dominated field.

After stints at Leo Burnett and FCB in Chicago, Michelle returned home to Los Angeles. Her personal journey has given her a unique insight into the challenges faced by women and people of color in our industry and a passion to create new opportunities and champion diversity.

Programming descriptions are generated by participants and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of SXSW.