The year 2020 has presented unique challenges and interruptions across all aspects of our lives, but it does not stop us from celebrating the various accomplishments and achievements of women leaders of color! Throughout the month of August, we will spotlight these amazing women and share their unique perspectives, philosophies, and stories.

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Yoyo Chan is the Vice President of Government and Public Affairs for the Golden State Warriors and Chase Center. With this pivotal position, Yoyo spearheads all of the organization’s governmental and external relations efforts. One of her many initiatives consisted of the development of Chase Center in San Francisco’s Mission Bay neighborhood.

Born and raised in San Francisco, Yoyo’s service to the city is admirable and inspiring. After attaining a B.A. in International Relations and Political Science from the University of California, San Diego, she returned to San Francisco ready to make an impact. Previously, Yoyo served as the Chief of Staff to San Francisco Supervisor Malia Cohen where she expertly provided political and policy analysis on issues related to land use, development, and the city’s budget. As a developer for Barbary Coast Consulting, Yoyo participated in community organizing efforts for various development projects, such as the $2.1 billion hospital rebuild project for Sutter Health.

Yoyo is currently serving on the San Francisco Grants for the Arts Advisory Panel, Mission Bay Transportation Improvement Fund Advisory Committee, and on the Board of the Ed Lee Democratic Club. Her commitment to leadership and developmental advancement is incredible, and we are excited to hear from her.

Reflecting on her leadership journey, Yoyo shares key pieces of insight about her experiences and lessons learned:

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Throughout your leadership journey, from your first job to your current position, what are some key lessons you’ve learned that have shaped you as a leader?

Be your authentic self. Don’t try to be someone you’re not. The most successful leaders I’ve worked for and admired from the beginning of my career to now are authentic and real people who are self-aware about their own strengths and weaknesses. I would also say I strive to lead with the most integrity and sincerity and to hold myself accountable for failures. They’re bound to happen in your career.

There is often a lack of representation of women of color in executive and board rooms. When you find yourself in these situations, how do you ensure your voice is heard?

It’s important to be confident and articulate in your delivery, but it’s even more important that you do the homework and have data and facts to support what you are trying to convey. When you can demonstrate you’ve done the research and are prepared to respond to tough questions, it goes a long way. Never underestimate the power of doing your homework!

What podcasts are you listening to and/or books are you reading?

I religiously listen to The Daily podcast. It’s a great daily dose of storytelling before starting the day. I’m currently reading A Promised Land by President Barack Obama – it’s the Warriors’ current book club book!