Thriving Elements
Phan is the founder and executive director ofThriving Elements.
This Seattle-based nonprofit matches young women in communities of need with STEM mentors.
Thriving Elements arose from Phan’s experience with mentors and how influential they were to her career success.
Thriving Elements
Mentors connect with mentees spanning eighth through 11th grade who are seeking careers in the STEM field.
The pairs work together on skills set development, public speaking, web connection building, and career advancement.
Phan grew up in the Seattle area in Tukwila, where a lot of refugees and immigrants reside.
Thriving Elements
Phan said that growing up with refugee parents was tough, and even paying for college was difficult.
“We end up being diluted when we’re hosting programs online.”
Despite the challenges, Phan hasn’t given up on her mission.
She’s often told that her nonprofit is too small.
“I say you know what, that’s exactly why we need help,” Phan shared.
“Sometimes, I don’t understand.
Don’t you want to help the little guys so that we can become big guys?
Working through this has been the biggest struggle for me,” she said.
