#ACELing2026 ~ Breaking the Bamboo Ceiling: The Moment That Changed Everything

Breaking the Bamboo Ceiling: The Moment That Changed Everything

Many professionals understand the concept of the “bamboo ceiling,” but the most powerful lessons often come from the moments when it becomes personal. At the 2026 ACELing In Leadership Conference, this candid fireside chat explores a defining workplace experience when ambition was questioned and leadership potential was underestimated.

Through an honest conversation about what happened, how the moment was handled, and what was learned from the experience, this session offers practical insights on navigating barriers, building confidence, finding your voice, and creating your own pathway to leadership.

Meet the Moderator:

Ron Li, Strategy & Analytics Leader, Phoenix Suns

Ron Li leads strategy and analytics for partnerships, media, and new ventures across the Phoenix Suns, Phoenix Mercury, Valley Suns, and Mortgage Matchup Center. He brings extensive experience in sports, entertainment, sponsorship, and business strategy, helping organizations identify opportunities for growth and create meaningful partnerships.

Prior to joining the organization, Ron served as Senior Vice President of Client Strategy at Navigate, a leading sports and entertainment consultancy. His career also includes leadership roles in sponsorship, research, and business strategy at Electronic Arts and the PGA TOUR. Originally from Hong Kong, Ron has lived and worked across Canada, Germany, Singapore, and the United States. His global perspective and strategic expertise have shaped his ability to build connections, drive innovation, and create impact across industries.

Meet the Speaker:

Dr. Hui Wu-Curtis, Chief Operating Officer, SupportU & Suture

Dr. Hui Wu-Curtis is a strategic executive with more than 20 years of experience transforming global contact center operations across hospitality, utilities, financial services, telecommunications, and healthcare. She serves as Chief Operating Officer of SupportU and Suture, a healthcare-focused business process outsourcing joint venture specializing in customer service, back-office processing, technical support, and sales.

A data-driven change agent, Dr. Hui leverages artificial intelligence, operational innovation, and process improvement strategies to drive measurable business results, including improved revenue, customer satisfaction, and profitability. A passionate advocate for women in leadership, she mentors emerging talent and speaks at customer experience conferences on transformational leadership, operational excellence, and building strong organizational cultures.

Breaking Barriers. Finding Your Voice. Leading with Confidence.

The moments when our potential is questioned can become defining moments in our leadership journey. Breaking through barriers requires more than professional achievement—it requires confidence, resilience, and the courage to recognize your own value.

Join us at the 2026 ACELing In Leadership Conference for an honest conversation about navigating the bamboo ceiling and creating pathways to leadership.

2026 ACELing In Leadership Conference

Theme: Shaping What's Next: Influence. Innovation. Impact.

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