San Francisco

The Asia Foundation has a unique role and history in San Francisco, a city long recognized as the gateway to a dynamic Asia-Pacific and a leading global center of innovation. Today’s premier international development organization in Asia was founded in San Francisco, borne out of remarkable hope for Asia’s emergence as a key region on the global stage. More than 60 years ago, a group of forward-thinking pioneers created The Asia Foundation, prominent Bay Area citizens who shared a strong interest in Asia, distinguished personal achievements, and dedicated public service who were devoted to promoting democracy, rule of law, and market-based development in post-war Asia.

In the founding spirit of The Asia Foundation, the nonprofit brings together local individuals, communities, and governments who are shaping Asia’s future. The San Francisco headquarters hosts a diverse range of global leaders, influencers, and innovators to help inform and address the many critical issues affecting Asia in the 21st century. Notable speakers include: Former Foreign Minister of the Republic of Korea Yoon Young-kwan; Australian Foreign Minister Julie Bishop; Mongolian President Tsakhia Elbegdorj; Sir Fazle Hasan Abed, founder and chairman of BRAC; Aung San Suu Kyi of Myanmar, among others.

Contact

The Asia Foundation – San Francisco

465 California St., 9th Floor
San Francisco, CA 94104-1804

Tel: 415-982-4640
Email: [email protected]

Staff in San Francisco »

Leaders on the Frontlines: Mobilizing Changemakers for our Sustainable Future

On September 10, 2019 in San Francisco, The Asia Foundation presented Dr. Oyun Sanjaasuren, former president of the United Nations Environment Assembly, with the Chang-Lin Tien Distinguished Leadership Award in recognition of her extraordinary leadership and advocacy for civil and social rights, including water security, and the Honorable George P. Shultz, former U.S. Secretary of State, received a Lifetime Leadership Award. KQED’s Mina Kim served as the emcee for the evening’s program, “Leaders on the Frontlines: Mobilizing Changemakers for our Sustainable Future,” featuring the 2019 Asia Foundation Development Fellows.

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