The Mayor’s Asian American Pacific Islander Advisory Council is hosting a dual event on Saturday, May 3, 2025, at the Barksdale Senior Center in Tampa. This event, featuring the Miss Asia Pacific Scholarship Pageant alongside the Asia Pacific Singing Idol Contest, begins with lunch at noon, and the program starts at 2:00 p.m. Attendees are required to pre-register for tickets.
May is Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month, and this event aims to emphasize cultural traditions, celebrate local talent, and support the academic progress of Tampa’s AAPI community. Contestants in the singing contest will perform, followed by the scholarship pageant, which includes displays of national costumes and a judged question-and-answer segment. Judges hail from Hillsborough County Public Schools, the Hillsborough County Board of County Commissioners, and the Tampa City Council.
“We’re proud to support events like this that showcase our talented residents and open doors for future leaders in Tampa’s AAPI community,” said Mayor Jane Castor. “It’s always exciting to celebrate culture while helping these young people take the next step in their education.”
The Tampa AAPI Festival, led by the Mayor’s AAPI Advisory Council, annually attracts thousands to Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park. This festival is recognized as Tampa’s largest celebration of Asian American and Pacific Islander cultures. The Council is dedicated to promoting civic engagement and fostering cultural understanding through its scholarship pageant and singing contest.
Additional ticket information can be accessed at tampa.gov/MAAPIAC-Event.
If more information is needed, contact Anh Nguyen, Director of the Miss Asia Pacific Scholarship Pageant, at 813-570-0122 or via email at anntruong_2000@yahoo.com.
The Mayor’s Asian American Pacific Islander Advisory Council facilitates connections and dialogue between the AAPI community and the Mayor’s Office. The Council addresses the needs of AAPI residents, contributes recommendations on programs and policies, and advocates for civic, social, educational, and economic opportunities within city governance. Further details can be found online.
