Our Story
Emely Shen founded the Buffalo Business Association in 2016 while serving as the President of the Chinese Club of WNY. During its first year, she enlisted Kent Wu to assist with operations. In 2017, Emely took full leadership, organizing small business networking events within the WNY Chinese Community.
In September 2018, Emely invited Jasmine Chen to assume the Presidency. Jasmine quickly assembled a volunteer team and rebranded the organization as the WNY Chinese Chamber of Commerce. With only $218 in initial funds, the Chamber actively engaged small businesses, attracting new members and hosting business seminars and networking events.
Under President Chen’s leadership, the Chamber launched its flagship event—the first Asian Food and Cultural Festival in 2019. This festival has since grown significantly, attracting broad community participation and strong support from local elected officials.
In 2020, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Chamber postponed its second festival. With approval from key sponsors—including Asia Food Market, Linde, and HSBC—the Chamber redirected the festival funds to support the local community.
Over a span of 10 weeks, the Chamber purchased meals from local restaurants and delivered them to hospitals, senior centers, and front-line workers. Additionally, Fuji Grill and Kyoto each generously donated $5,000 to help procure essential supplies, such as masks, for front-line workers and hospitals. Since the Chinese Club of WNY was already coordinating donations for masks, the Chamber contributed the $10,000 towards their efforts, ensuring Fuji Grill and Kyoto received proper recognition.
Later, an anonymous donor provided N95 masks, which the Chamber donated to the Amherst Police through Erie County Legislator Jeanne Vinal.
Jiannan Wu served as the President of the WNY Chinese Chamber of Commerce from 2021 to 2022, followed by Yi Li from 2023-2024.
Each leader has continued to support the festival and foster collaboration across diverse communities, strengthening the Chamber’s impact and outreach.
