Historic Partnership Heralds New Era of AI Leadership in Latin America
By Editor-in-Chief, Asiana Post
Today marks a watershed moment for Latin America’s technological future and a proud milestone for Asian-American entrepreneurship. The strategic alliance between Intupower and the Mercosur Chamber of Commerce represents far more than a business partnership—it’s the dawn of a transformative movement that will reshape the region’s relationship with artificial intelligence for generations to come.
As a publication that has long championed the achievements of Asian-Americans and their global impact, we at Asiana Post are particularly inspired by this development. Mo Hasan, Intupower’s founder and a Bangladeshi-American immigrant who has graced several Asiana Post events as a speaker, epitomizes the immigrant success story and the valuable cross-cultural perspective that Asian-Americans bring to global innovation.
The partnership’s ambition is breathtaking in scope: eight distinct AI education programs in multiple languages, designed to position Latin America as a global leader in ethical AI adoption. What makes this initiative truly revolutionary is its focus on developing AI solutions that reflect Latin American values and address regional challenges—not simply importing Silicon Valley models.
At the heart of this collaboration lies The Hasan MethodTM, described as the world’s first no-code machine learning solution. This approach democratizes access to AI technologies, making them accessible to people without technical expertise. Such democratization is crucial for regions seeking to close digital divides and ensure equitable technological advancement.
The potential benefits for Latin America are profound. Beyond positioning
Mercosur as a center for AI innovation, the initiative promises to reduce economic migration by creating high-value local jobs, strengthen cross-border integration through digital connectivity, and promote digital sovereignty with indigenous technological capabilities aligned with regional values.
Perhaps most significantly, this partnership emphasizes ethics from the outset. The Policies Institute’s “The 7 Policies” framework will ensure all AI initiatives meet rigorous standards of social responsibility and governance. In an era when concerns about AI ethics are mounting globally, this commitment to responsible innovation sets a powerful example. Having followed Mo Hasan’s journey through various business events and speaking engagements covered by Asiana Post, we’ve witnessed firsthand his passionate advocacy for ethical AI and inclusive technological advancement. As he stated in the announcement, “Our vision of ethical, responsible, and accessible AI will lay the foundation for regional technological leadership, fulfilling our mission of democratizing access to AI for everyone.”
This philosophy resonates deeply with Asiana Post’s mission to highlight cross-cultural bridges and innovations that benefit diverse communities. The partnership between an Asian-American founded company and Latin American institutions exemplifies how diverse perspectives can unite to create something greater than the sum of its parts.
As the collaboration begins its first implementation phase in Colombia, we will watch with great interest. The planned live event in Medellín focusing on AI and the future of business promises to be just the beginning of a far-reaching initiative that could redefine Latin America’s place in the global technological ecosystem. For our Asian-American community in South Florida and beyond, this partnership serves as an inspiring reminder of our capacity to drive global change through entrepreneurship, innovation, and cross-cultural collaboration. Mo Hasan’s leadership in this historic alliance demonstrates how the unique perspectives of Asian-Americans can help shape a more inclusive and ethical technological future
worldwide.
We at Asiana Post applaud this visionary partnership and look forward to
chronicling its impact on Latin America’s technological transformation in the years to come.
EMBARGOED UNTIL March, 27, 2025, 9AM PST
Just in Time for Women’s History Month, Kwento Comics Announces The Mask of Haliya Volume 2: Echoes of the Forgotten Past
The Mother and Daughter Led Company Teams Up with an All-Asian, All-Female International Creative Team for an Epic Philippine Mythology-inspired Adventure
Timed to Women’s History Month, Kwento Comics, the trailblazing Filipino-American comic book publisher, is partnering with Clover Press for a Kickstarter campaign to publish the second volume of The Mask of Haliya, a dark supernatural fantasy graphic novel inspired by Philippine mythology. Written by Kaitlyn Fajilan, with art from Susan Bin and Vik Caedo, colors by Liz Buenaventura, lettered by Kiela Sibal, and edited by Arielle Jovellanos – The Mask of Haliya Volume 2: Echoes of the Forgotten Past follows Filipina-American teenager Marisol Reyes, as she grapples with the life-changing power of the magical mask she inherited from her great grandmother. The deluxe hardcover is available now on Kickstarter.
“Kwento Comics is rooted in the Filipino word kwento, meaning ‘story,” said Kwento Comics Co-Founder and Chief Executive Officer Cecilia Lim. “We believe in the transformative power of storytelling to inspire, empower, and connect communities across the globe. Every story we tell, every panel we create, and every character we breathe life into reflects our mission: to uplift diverse voices and celebrate the richness of Asian heritage, culture, and identity.”
As darkness rises and family secrets are revealed, The Mask of Haliya: Echoes of the Forgotten Past plunges fans deeper into the soul of ancient Filipino mythology, where sinister forces stir and paths begin to intertwine. Haunted by fragmented memories, Isla races against time to unearth her buried past and protect the Mask’s new heir. Meanwhile, Mari grapples with her emerging powers and an awakening that thrusts her into unchartered territories. Deep within the forest, a malevolent organization’s activities draw suspicion as whispers of forbidden rituals and monstrous creatures surface. The Mask of Haliya: Echoes of the Forgotten Past will be available as a 192-page Deluxe Hardcover via Kickstarter.
“In this latest volume, Mari’s emotional journey takes quite the turn. As someone who has always maintained a very guarded front, Mari starts to emerge from her cocoon under Bella’s tutelage,” explains writer Kaitlyn Fajilan. “Slowly, her internal perspective shifts from that of worrying that all she does is hurt people, to believing that harnessing her ‘true’ self can allow her to *help* people. She dares to hope that she can make real friendships, win her mother’s approval, perhaps even fall in love. However, as the girl comes more and more into her own, that new sense of self begins to splinter. A *second* Mari emerges–a darker one, one that is simultaneously tumultuous and composed. A persona that may or may not be connected to the moon goddess Haliya. The formation of this new identity is sure to bring about further complications and revelations, culminating in a seismic battle that launches us into the second half of this arc.”
Kwento Comics was founded by a mother and daughter team, Cecilia and Waverley Lim, who were inspired to create a solution to the lack of Asian American representation in media. Their goal in launching the company is to create lead Asian female characters on the page, while also highlighting the talented Asian women artists and writers in an industry that is heavily male-dominated. With the release of Kwento Comics’ second graphic novel, the company cements its reputation as a source of empowerment and inspiration for women in the arts around the world.
“It’s truly been such a special and rewarding experience working with an all female creative team not only because of all the beautiful work that our team puts out, but that I’m able to see Asian women at the forefront of creative and entrepreneurial endeavors,” says Kwento Comics Co-founder and Chief Operating Officer Waverley Lim. “It’s empowering knowing that we don’t have to ask for a seat at the table, when we can just make our own. We deserve to see ourselves in every space, including graphic novels, which has been such a wonderful way to visually show and immerse audiences in the mythology from our islands in the Philippines. The Philippines and its people are full of such color and life, so it was important that our artwork reflected this.”
“I’m so pleased to continue the MASK OF HALIYA series of books at Clover Press,” said Clover Press Publisher Hank Kanalz. “The ladies at Kwento are telling such a compelling story, and one steeped in mythology. We’ve all grown up hearing these stories from our parents, and Kwento is bringing them into modern light.”
For updates, follow Kwento Comics on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter, and follow Clover Press on Blue Sky, Facebook, Instagram, X, and YouTube.
For more information, contact:
David Hyde
Dustin Holland
Superfan Promotions Founder Superfan Promotions Publicity Coordinator
david.hyde@superfanpromotions.com dustin.holland@superfanpromotions.com
About Kwento Comics: Kwento Comics is a pioneering Filipino-American comic book publisher committed to amplifying diverse voices and celebrating the rich heritage of Filipino culture. Kwento Comics is the first all-women, all-Asian comic book company highlighting Filipino and Asian mythology through the medium of graphic novels. With their compelling stories, stunning artwork, and unwavering dedication to representation, Kwento Comics aims to inspire and entertain readers worldwide. For more information, visit www.kwentocomics.com.
About Clover Press: Headed by IDW co-founder Robbie Robbins and former DC executive Hank Kanalz, Clover Press publishes a wide variety of collected and original content ranging from re-mastered reprints of classic newspaper strips to horror graphic novels, and high-quality art books. Clover Press is working with a wide variety of creators including Kevin Eastman, Steve Niles, Gabriel Rodriguez, Ruben Bolling, Richard Bennett, Ray Troll, John K. Snyder III, Stewart Kenneth Moore, Aron Wiesenfeld, David Mack, Alex Maleev, David Nakayama, Russell Dauterman, Michael Allred, and more.
About Cecilia Lim: Cecilia Lim is a first-generation American Filipina. Her career spans the realms of law, business, and creative storytelling. As an attorney with over two decades of corporate law and technology expertise, she brings a sharp intellect and strategic mindset to all her endeavors. Driven by a passion for her heritage, she founded Kwento Comics, where she serves as CEO, aiming to elevate and reimagine Filipino mythology for a global audience. Furthermore, she also serves as Chief Business Officer and President of Halo Halo Corp. The Halo Halo app seeks to create an unforgettable digital experience by merging top-tier content with cutting-edge technology. Her unique blend of professional skills, community service and cultural passion defines her multifaceted career. Cecilia holds a BA in Economics from the University of Illinois and a JD from the University of Illinois Chicago School of Law.
About Kaitlyn Fae Fajilan: Kaitlyn Fae Fajilan is an award-winning Filipina-American filmmaker, writer, actor, and musician. In addition to her work on Haliya, Kaitlyn is the head writer of the upcoming television show Dreamwalker: Awakenings, produced by 108 Media and based on the supernatural comic book series of the same name by Mikey Sutton. Past writing positions include being an independent contractor for the television network, ABS-CBN, and Director of Writing for Filam Creative, a Los-Angeles based organization dedicated to the advancement of Filipinx in media and entertainment. Kaitlyn’s directing filmography includes the indie rom-com, Fruit Fly, which won Audience Choice at the 2021 San Diego Filipino Film Festival, and other movies like Madeira (Best Music, 2018 Feedback Female Film Festival), Undie Run (Best Director Finalist, 2019 Women’s Comedy Atlanta Film Festival), and the upcoming One Pine.
About Waverley Lim: Waverley Lim is a Filipina-American actress and Co-Founder and COO of Kwento Comics. She recently graduated cum laude from UCLA’s School of Theater, Film, and Television. Seeing a need for more representation for Asian women, she co-founded Kwento Comics with her mother in order to provide opportunities for more Asian women creatives to shine in the arts. She hopes to bring more stories to life that honor the rich cultural landscape and diversity of the AAPI community.
1-800-Lucky Presents: The Banana Catchup: Filipino Block Party
A Day of Filipino Culture, Cuisine, and Community
Link to event flyers HERE & host headshots HERE
(photo credit Deyson Rodriguez)
MIAMI, FL – Miami’s first and only Asian food hall, 1-800-Lucky proudly announces its first annual Banana Catchup: Filipino Block Party, hosted by Nicole Ponseca from Jeepney, Darren Mendoza of Lutong Pinoy Filipino Cuisine, and Cheryl Tiu, founder of Cross Cultures in partnership with ACE NextGen, set to take place on October 8th. The all-day, first-of-its-kind celebration in Miami will honor and support Filipino heritage, culture and cuisine through a block party style BBQ showcasing small, local Filipino vendors, collaborations with beloved local chefs, live entertainment and more.
In alignment with 1-800-Lucky’s commitment to showcasing innovative and high-caliber concepts, The Banana Catchup aims to spotlight the abundance of Filipino talent flourishing in Miami and the rise of Filipino cuisine nationally. The name Banana Catchup is a play on the popular Filipino condiment banana ketchup, a sweet and tangy banana-based condiment that’s beloved throughout the country.
Gaby Chiriboga, founder of 1-800-Lucky shares, “In a city still developing and expanding its Filipino presence, there is a strong desire to create a true home for the community. 1-800-Lucky aspires to be more than just a destination for discovering Asian cuisine, we want to support the Asian culture and community here in Miami.” The Banana Catchup further cements 1-800-Lucky’s dedication to championing the support of Miami’s rapidly growing AAPI communities.
From 1 pm – 5 pm, the Filipino Marketplace will feature a diverse array of small Filipino-owned businesses including Dreaming of Clay crafting hand-made jewelry, Graze & Gobble, a sustainable clothing and accessories curator and Ives & Bees, a purveyor of natural candles, handmade soaps, and other body products. Guests can enjoy a variety of Filipino cuisine from hosts Nicole Ponseca from Jeepney and Darren Mendoza of Lutong Pinoy Filipino Cuisine, as well as a lineup of local and beloved South Florida chefs curated by Cheryl Tiu and Cross Cultures, including collaborative concepts from Leicel Ros & Nancy Dominguez of Sili Miami, Oliver Lustado & Jill Montinola, and Reiji Yoshizawa and Mel Mauro. On the entertainment side, a key pillar for 1-800-Lucky, the evening will feature a DJ set by Filipino DJ KUYA TREY from 1-4 pm, traditional Filipino dance performances, a lively karaoke competition at 8 pm, followed by regular Sunday DJ programming.
Guests can RSVP for free through EventBrite HERE.
1-800-Lucky is located at 143 NW 23rd St.; (305) 768-9826;; @1800lucky the restaurant is open for daily service Monday – Wednesday from 12 p.m. to 1 a.m. and Thursday – Sunday 12 p.m. – 3 a.m; Current vendor concepts include: B-Side by Itamae, Gold Marquess, Yip, Jeepney; Live DJ sets take place daily and include talent like Jarobi Ft. Tillery James at 7pm every Tuesday, Ripe Fruit presented by Louie Arson every Thursday at 9pm and Dulce presented by Bonnie Beats & Negra Fabulosa every Saturday 3pm-9pm.
About 1-800-Lucky:
Developed by partners and industry veterans Sven Vogtland, Alan Drummond and Gaby Chiriboga, 1-800-Lucky is Miami’s first and only Asian food hall. After opening in 2017, 1-800-Lucky quickly became recognized as a neighborhood hotspot and incubator for pan-Asian cuisine from globally recognized chefs as well as up-and-coming and established musical talent. The 10,000-square-foot food hall is currently home to vendors including B-Side by Itamae, a sushi bar by James Beard semifinalist & Food & Wine Magazine Best New Chef Valerie Chang; Jeepney, Filipino fare from NYC restauranteur Nicole Ponseca; Yip and Gold Marquess, Chinese cuisine highlighted by small-batch hand-crafted dumplings. The vendors surround an expansive, open indoor dining room flanked by two full bars; a karaoke lounge; Lucky Record Shop, featuring a selection of vinyl records and authentic Japanese snacks; spacious outdoor patio, and flexible private event space to host functions of any size. On any given day or night, guests can catch music from world-class DJs and producers, like Jarobi White from A Tribe Called Quest.
Media Contacts:
Kim Nolan | Chloe Harris
kim@kn-pr.com | chloe@kn-pr.com
# # #
Press Release and Statements
Dates & Locations: Friday, July 28th, 5:30-10:30pm on 1100 Lincoln Road Miami Beach; Saturday July 29th, 4pm-12am & Sunday, July 30th, 4pm-11pm at 2600 NW 2nd Avenue Miami FL, 33127
Contact: Smorgasburg Miami, pr@smorgasburgmiami.com
Website: https://www.smorgasburgmiami.com/
Instagram: @smorgasburgmiami
Asian Street Food Night Festival Hosted by Smorgasburg Miami
For the first time ever, Smorgasburg Miami will be hosting a night market at their Wynwood location. Following the massively successful events of Chinese New Year and AAPI, Smorgasburg Miami will host a night version of their Asian Street Food festival, paying homage to Asian food markets that operate at night in Vietnam, Thailand, Japan, and many other Asian countries.
Miami’s largest outdoor food court will once again give people what they want – good Asian food all in one place! Savor dishes from Smorgasburg’s own regular Asian vendors as well as guest vendors like Asian desserts from Lan Halo Halo, Vietnamese Street food from Yen’s Kitchen, Peking Duck from Land n Sea and a new Dim Sum concept from Dim Sum Terminal.
Smorgasburg Miami will also offer cultural workshops like Ikebana (Japanese flower arrangement) led by Akiko Awata, a landscape designer and Ikebana artist from Ai Creative
Design Studio. Miyuki Saito, a member from Ichimura Miami-Japan Garden will teach how to make Origami (Japanese art of folding paper) starting with a simple boat to the beloved mystical crane.
We are excited to bring musical acts by Justin Medina sharing his Breakdance techniques and personal free style creative moves. Our headliner act, vibrant taiko drumming, representing the spirit of Japanese people will be performing throughout the evening, brought to us by Sincronia USA. See the full Event Schedule below.
On the culinary side, our own regular vendors together with guest vendors will provide a fantastic selection of dishes for Asian food lovers. On the retail side, Filipina guest Dreaming of Clay will be presenting her beautiful, unique, handcrafted jewelry.
Beauty shots for food, acts and activities: https://bit.ly/3XVEDm2
Guest Vendors Specials
Dim Sum Terminal • Pork Belly Scallion Pancake Sandwich
Yen’s Kitchen • Shrimp, Crab, Quail Egg, Tofu, Beef Meatball Skewers Land n Sea • Peking Duck Rolls, Scallion, Cucumber, Hoisin Sauce Lan Halo Halo • Halo Halo Ube Ice Cream & Shaved Ice, Lychee Jelly
Smorgasburg Regular Vendors
Kitty Boba Tea House • Boba Tea
Miami Korean Salads • Korean Rice Balls
D’Pura Cepa • Sticky Guava & Ginger Pork Mofongo
The Wrapper • Crap Wrap with Crab, Fries, Wasabi Mayo Tacos Sonora 305 • Mapo Tofu Burrito
Gangnam Chicken • Korean Fried Chicken
Korean Kitchen • Korean Bulgogi Hot Dogs
Suki Llama • Sushi
Kabuki Soba • Yakitori and Soba Bowls
Mao Bao • Dumplings
Ai Tallarin • Ramen and Dim Sum
EVENT SCHEDULE: Saturday, July 29
4:30pm-5:30pm 5:30pm-7:00pm 7:00pm-8:00pm 8:00pm-12:00pm
Sunday, July 30
4:30pm-5:30pm 6:00pm-10:00pm 7:00pm-8:00pm 8:00pm-11:00pm
• Origami with Miyuki Saito, Ichimura Miami-Japan Garden • Ikebana with Akiko Awata, Ai Design Creative Studio
• Breakdancer Justin Medina
• Karaoke
• Origami with Miyuki Saito, Ichimura Miami-Japan Garden • Taiko Drumming with Sincronia USA
• Breakdancer Justin Medina
• Karaoke
About Smorgasburg
Smorgasburg Miami operates every Friday from 5:30-10:30pm on 1100 Lincoln Road, Saturday from 1-9pm & Sunday from 1-8pm on 2600 NW 2nd Avenue. We feature 60+ of the best-in-class food vendors from Miami and beyond as well as a specially curated section of retail vendors. The market also features live music by a vinyl record DJ and a full bar, serving wine, specialty cocktails, and craft beer. We offer a platform for up-and-coming vendors to incubate their culinary dreams and grow. Smorgasburg Miami is operated by Gaston Becherano’s Omotenashi Group.