COMMUNITY
In recognition of Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage Month, PPAI proudly honors the profound impact of AAPI professionals within the promotional products industry. Their unwavering resilience, groundbreaking innovations, and invaluable cultural perspectives not only enrich our community but also propel the industry toward greater success and inclusivity.
The month of May is a time to honor their stories and achievements, reflecting on the ways they inspire innovation and foster a sense of community. Through their leadership and hard work, the industry continues to grow in diversity and strength, creating opportunities for future generations to thrive.
Like the products our members source, we seek to forge connections that create joy. We embrace belonging while encouraging teamwork and collaboration.
People of Asian heritage have been part of communities in North America for centuries – since before the American Revolution.
The United States boasts one of the world’s most diverse cultural identities. Nearly every region of the world has influenced American culture, from the traditions and customs to the food and music.
Your clients and prospects are more diverse than ever. Knowing how to serve different market segments is crucial to your success. This means recognizing not just their ethnicity and age, but also factors such as socioeconomic background, culture and education.
PPAI offers a series of webinars focused on DEI topics, providing insights and strategies to promote inclusivity within the promotional products industry.
Quinn Bui, owner and multi-line representative of n9ner Marketing, and one of 2023's PPAI Rising Stars, is making a lasting impact on the promotional products industry. His journey reflects professional success and a deep commitment to giving back to the community.
Getting Started
After college, Bui worked as a customer service rep for a small supplier in Colorado, where he learned graphic design. His journey took him to the distributor side of the business, then back to the supplier ranks before he founded his own company as a multi-line rep earlier this year.
Earning The Honor
Nominator Charity Gibson, CMO of Proforma says, “Using photography, video and social media, he has been able to tell the story of promo as lifestyle products.”
What’s Your Biggest Career Challenge?
“Probably diversity and inclusion. Going into the first trade show was eye-opening. There were so many people there, but there weren’t too many people that were young, and at the same time there weren’t too many Vietnamese people. It wasn’t something I found negative. I just had to go out and look more. So I think that’s why I’ve leaned into being a part of associations and going to more events. I always push people to be a part of more than just your supplier or your distributor. Go out there and break out and climb those walls.”
What Are You Most Proud Of?
“When I started my distributorship, a portion of what I made went to a mission that I started with my family in Vietnam. It’s called Mission Giving Back. I’m so proud to be able to do that in my own business again, n9ner Marketing, and 2% of everything I make, doesn’t matter what supplier you work with, actually goes to saving orphans and families in Vietnam.”
How Do You Think The Industry Will Change In The Next Decade?
“I think technology is here, and AI is going to be a big part of it. Selling products is not what it was 10 years ago, and selling products is going to be different in 10 years, too. There’s going to be a lot more e-commerce coming into play, and I feel like the melting pot of marketing agencies to parent companies and promo are all going to be mixed together even more.”
PPAI technology partner SAGE allows Association members to source products from thousands of industry suppliers. Users can filter the product search engine for ESG and diversity certifications, including:
The Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Action Group increases the visibility of underrepresented groups within the promotional products workforce and inspires industry business leaders to embrace inclusive, unbiased business practices.
Nicole Rhooms serves as PPAI’s Human Resources Director, bringing over 20 years of experience in driving organizational success through strategic human capital management. She holds a master’s degree in Human Resources and Employment Law from Arizona State University, with a specialization in Human Resources. With deep expertise in all aspects of HR, Nicole has consistently demonstrated a proven track record in talent acquisition, employee development, leadership coaching, and organizational development.
Throughout her career, Nicole has partnered with senior leadership to align HR strategies with business goals, fostering a positive and productive work environment while optimizing workforce performance and engagement. Known for her ability to navigate complex challenges and build strong relationships across all levels of the organization, she is passionate about creating innovative HR solutions that drive sustainable business growth.
Serving as the chief technology officer of Sonline since 2014, Suri Anantharama is a PPAI volunteer. He began his term on PPAI’s DEI Action Group in 2024.
PPAI volunteer Derrick Hamilton is a member of the executive team at distributor LeaderPromos. Originally joining the firm in 2020, he currently serves as its vice-president of business development, inclusion & sustainability.
An ecommerce operations expert, Tricia Johnson is the director of enterprise programs at distributor Myron. A PPAI volunteer, she first joined the promotional products industry in 2017.
Pennsylvania-based Lauren LaMantia is a human resources manager at promotional products distributor Gordon Sinclair.
The vice-president of people & culture at Canada-based distributor Genumark, Jean Steffanazi first joined the promotional products industry in 2018.
Originally beginning her career with SanMar in 2002, PPAI volunteer Natalie Tenner is currently a credit manager at the industry supplier, and its Diversity & Inclusion Council Chair.
In coordination with the Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Action Group, PPAI is working to make the promotional marketplace welcoming to all. How can we best celebrate the unique cultures who make our industry strong? Email us.
CONNECT
The Association is driven by members like you. Industry volunteers play an essential role in defining our strategy and shaping the industry.