Vivienne Tam was raised in Hong Kong and moved to New York City after college, where she successfully built a global business and built a reputation for culture-bridging, East-meets-West designs. In celebration of Immigrant Heritage Month, we checked with Tam about her immigrant experience.

Why did you decide to establish yourself in the U.S.?

New York is a place where you can be who you are. That’s how I started. It was because of America, because of New York. If you do good work here, people recognize you. They just come to you, it’s incredible. Today, of course, the fashion industry is looking East. But decades ago, Hong Kong was thought of only as a manufacturing base, not somewhere that could produce designers.  I grew up in Hong Kong, so this East-meets-West thing is who I am – and New York gave me the freedom and the opportunity to be who I am.

How would you describe your experience as an immigrant?

It was a humbling and rewarding experience.  America is the land of opportunities.  As long as you work hard, it’s a place where you can realize your dreams.  I was fortunate to be able to come here and establish my business.  I remember coming to New York with a suitcase with 20 of my creations.  I was doing cold-calling and trying to sell to department stores, standing in lines in a cold November to be seen by the buyers.  I got my first break from Henri Bendel when they gave me my first order.  After that, I never looked back.  It wasn’t always smooth sailing. But along the way, I received help from many people including buyers and the press.  They welcomed me with open arms and gave me invaluable advice. Being an immigrant in America allows me to preserve my culture and bringing its best to the world stage.  I did not have to change my identity, or dilute it.

In honor of Immigrant Heritage month, which immigrants to America have most inspired you and how so?

I am inspired by the stories of all the immigrants I have come across or learned about while in America.   Each one has a unique story about their experience.  I find their struggle and integration into the American culture fascinating and inspiring.  I have tremendous admiration for all of them.