Join us for a conversation with James Beni Wilson, Learning Assistant Coordinator with the MICPA. James was born in the Philippines and adopted by an American family. In 2013, James embarked on a journey to learn about his birth family, Filipino heritage experience, and cultural background. Today, James is very active in metro Detroit’s Asian American community and has given talks on race and identity across the country.
Race is often the first thing that comes to mind when DEI is referenced within organizations, and yet it is regularly avoided as a focal point of discussion. After all, talking about race can be a sensitive topic because, even when intentions are good, it can result in tension, frustration, and conflict. Identifying strategies to facilitate safe conversations about race in the workplace starts with understanding the fundamentals – definitions, terminology, context, etc.
In this session, we will talk with James about his experiences along his journey of discovery. Our goal is to take a deeper look at race and its connection to identity, heritage, ethnicity, and culture. We hope you join the conversation!
Learning Objectives:
- Define the concept and key terminology of race
- Recognize the relationship between race and implicit cultural bias
- Determine how to differentiate between race, ethnicity, culture, and nationality
Jina Etienne, CPA, CGMA, CDE®
Etienne Consulting
Human-Centered Leadership Consultant | Speaker | Trainer
[email protected]
(301) 778-5510
Jina Etienne, CPA, CGMA is a speaker, storyteller, and consultant who helps individuals and organizations unlock the power of authenticity, trust, and connection. With more than 30 years of experience in the accounting profession and business leadership, she brings a unique, deeply human approach to leadership development and culture-building.
Her work focuses on the intersection of leadership, belonging, and emotional intelligence, equipping people with the awareness and tools to lead with clarity, empathy, and intention. Known for blending professional insight with personal storytelling, Jina makes complex ideas accessible and relatable. She helps professionals at all levels show up more fully as themselves—both in their work and in their lives.
James Beni Wilson
MICPA
Learning Assistant Coordinator
[email protected]
(248) 267-3715
James Beni Wilson currently works as the Learning Assistant Coordinator for the Michigan Association of Certified Public Accountants (MICPA). He also is an indie documentary filmmaker from Metro Detroit. His film, BINITAY: Journey of a Filipino Adoptee, tells the story of his journey as a Filipino adoptee in search of his birth story and birth family. His film has been shown at Harvard, Schoolcraft Community College, the Minnesota Transracial Film Festival, the Philippine American Community Center of Michigan, and the Filipino Heritage Camp at Heritage Camps for Adoptive Families. His sequel documentary, Once Upon An Ochia, highlights the post-reunion relationship, sociocultural challenges, and collective narratives of his biological family.
James was born in the village of Mabuli in the municipality of Tabógōn, on the island of Cebu, in the Philippines. He was adopted at the age of three years old. James is a Board Member and Youth Chair Liaison of the Filipino American Community Council of Michigan (FILAMCCO). He also serves as a Board Member of the Philippine-American Community Center of Michigan (PACCM), Secretary of the Michigan Chapter of the Filipino American National Historical Society (FANHSMI). He was a past assistant director of Paaralang Pilipino (Filipino School) at the PACCM where he is also the lead facilitator and teacher for the Filipino Youth Initiative (FYI). He is also active in the larger Asian Pacific Islander American (APIA) community. James serves as a Board Member for American Citizens for Justice (ACJ), which was formed after the murder of Vincent Chin back in 1982. In 2013, James was awarded the “Rising Star” award by APIA-Vote Michigan for his dedication and leadership in the APIA community.
James received his Bachelor of Science in Sociology at Arizona State University.
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