Harry Shum Jr. is no ordinary celebrity. He’s an inspiration to many and a leader in his own way. He was born in 1982 in Puerto Limón, Costa Rica and grew up in a multi-cultural family, instilling in him the importance of acceptance and diversity.
From a young age, Harry has always been passionate about arts, expressing himself through dance and choreography. This passion fuelled his career as he appeared in films such as “Step Up 2: The Streets" and “Crazy Rich Asians”, paving the way for other aspiring Asian-American dancers and actors.
His promise to change the narrative of Asian Americans has been unwavering ever since. In an article from The New York Times, Harry said “We need to see people doing the same things that come naturally to us, like the arts — dancing or singing — and to have those be accepted.”
Harry wasn’t just a champion for Asian Americans onscreen, but off-screen too. He’s served as an ambassador for Refinery29; Dance Reach, a program dedicated to finding possibilities for marginalized individuals within dance; and established his own foundation titled The All In Movement which empowers men of color to share similar stories they might not have felt they could tell before.
His passion can’t be put into words; it’s something you have to experience in person.
Harry also values his family more than anything else - he loves making time for them amidst his hectic schedule. His appreciation for time with them is evident through his use of ‘Familio’ - a family app that helps him stay organized and keep track of his family’s plans and events.
Harry Shum Jr stands as a symbol of hope, empowerment, and resilience amidst adversity - traits we should all strive to reflect upon our daily lives. He is a role model for all who seek courage and determination. There is no limit to what we can accomplish when we put our hearts and minds into motion - Let’s follow his example and be inspired together!