Her Story
About Lana
Lana Nguyen is a community leader, entrepreneur, and technology professional based in Austin, Texas, with a career built around service, innovation, and empowering others. She currently serves as the elected President of the Vietnamese American Community at Austin, Texas (VACAT), where she has led the organization for seven years after previously serving as Vice President and IT Director. Through her leadership, she works to strengthen cultural connections, expand civic engagement, and provide resources for Vietnamese American families, seniors, and youth. Her commitment to servant leadership is reflected in her belief that true leadership comes from creating meaningful value and uplifting the people around her.
Before transitioning into entrepreneurship and community advocacy, Lana built a successful career as a software engineer and project manager with more than 15 years of experience in technology, including work supporting the Department of Defense. She holds a Master of Science in Management Information Systems and a Bachelor of Science in Computer Information Systems from Tarleton State University. Combining her analytical background with her passion for helping others, she founded and developed businesses in real estate, tax preparation, and financial strategy, with the goal of providing practical solutions and opportunities that help individuals and families build stronger futures.
As a real estate consultant with Austin Elite Realty and a dedicated nonprofit leader, Lana continues to bridge the worlds of business, technology, and community service. She advocates for immigrants, women, and future generations by encouraging them to pursue leadership opportunities, overcome challenges, and use their success to benefit others. Through VACAT, her professional ventures, and organizations such as CREW (Commercial Real Estate Women), Lana remains committed to creating pathways for growth, preserving cultural heritage, and building a more connected and empowered community. Her journey as an immigrant who overcame language and cultural barriers serves as an inspiration for others to lead with purpose, resilience, and compassion.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Lana
01What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering my industry is to focus on discovering what truly excites and motivates them. Identify what gives you purpose, what makes you happy, and what inspires you to keep moving forward. While it is important to consider the expectations of others, it is equally important to pursue a path that aligns with your own passions and values. Do not be afraid to seek connections, join communities, volunteer, and explore new opportunities, because through these experiences you can discover your purpose and build a career that is both meaningful and fulfilling.
02What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest challenges I face through my nonprofit is bridging cultural, economic, and civic gaps within the Vietnamese American community. Many immigrants and refugees came to the United States from very different social and governmental systems, and part of my mission is to help them better understand civic life, public institutions, and community resources so they can become more informed and empowered. I also work to connect younger and older generations by preserving Vietnamese heritage while encouraging adaptation and growth in today’s society. Building mutual understanding between generations is challenging, but it is one of the most meaningful and rewarding aspects of my work.
03What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values that guide me in both my work and personal life are service, purpose, and creating meaningful value for others. I believe that true leadership begins with serving others, and I see myself as a servant leader who is committed to making a positive impact in my community, business, and nonprofit work. Every day, I strive to ask how I can help, support, and contribute to the success and well-being of others.
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