Celebrated in the month of May in the United States, Asian American Pacific Islanders Month recognizes and celebrates the generations of Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians and Pacific Islanders who have contributed to America’s history and culture.

Nani

A South Indian actor and producer best known for his works in Telugu cinema, Nani has gained notable fame for his versatile acting in films like “Eega” and “Jersey”, playing roles in comedies and action. Released on May 1, he starred as the lead in “HIT: The Third Case,” the final installment of a three-part movie series he produced.

“I look up to him because he is a very respectable member in the industry; no major scandals, no controversial movies and, most importantly, he’s a very big provider to the community,” junior Aryan Banda said. “Nani has very openly been extremely philanthropic, whether that be funding projects in small towns, giving education to younger girls or donating to reliefs during COVID or floods.”

Jackie Chan

A Chinese actor best known for his martial arts and stunts in Hong Kong cinema, Jackie Chan is a Hong Kong actor who has gained international fame from his notable acting in action comedy films “Rush Hour,” “Police Story” and “Drunken Master.” With a career spanning five decades, he has performed most of his stunts and holds a Guinness World Record for “Most Stunts by a Living Actor.”

“Jackie Chan inspired me because he is known as someone who is incredibly hardworking, as he came from a poor background and he was able to make a name for himself in the acting industry because of his uniqueness,” sophomore Allison Lin said. “I admire him for his incredible karate and martial art movies.”

KJ Appa

A Samoan actor best known for his roles in American films, KJ Apa has gained fame for his breakout roles, starring as Archie in the TV series “Riverdale” and Chris in the movie “The Hate you Give.” Apa featured in some of the Riverdales’ soundtracks and released his own solo indie folk rock album ”Clocks” in 2021.

“He’s only 27 and he became high chief in his village, which is pretty important because that means he’s someone who’s well respected by his village,” freshman Tayjanaryah Hisatake said. “He’s also my favorite because he’s Samoan and Samoans got to support each other.”