October marks Filipino American History Month, a time to honor the rich legacy and vibrant contributions of Filipino Americans. It’s a month filled with reflection, celebration, and a deep appreciation for the journeys that have shaped our community. We sat down with John McCartney to delve into what this month means to them, how their Filipino heritage has influenced their life and career, and the powerful role of family and community in their journey.

What does Filipino American History Month mean to you personally and professionally?

For me, Filipino American History Month is a time of immense pride. I’m a very proud Filipino American, and I’m grateful for my background and the history of our people and culture. It’s a time to display our Pinoy roots, celebrate who we are, and honestly, eat as much lumpia, pancit, and ube as possible!

It’s also a moment to reflect on the sacrifices my family made and the resilience of our community. Professionally, it’s about showing up fully as myself in spaces where Filipino voices haven’t always been heard, and making sure we’re not just in the room, but actively shaping the conversation.

How has your Filipino heritage influenced your career or professional path?

Honestly, I didn’t plan this career. I sort of fell into PR and marketing. Growing up, I was that kid who did well in school, took all the honors classes, and excelled in math and science (shocking, I know, right?). For a while, I thought I’d become an engineer, and that was definitely my plan during college. I also loved writing, but I never really considered becoming a lawyer or a doctor, which are more traditional paths.

Eventually, I found my way into PR. Now I run my own agency and stay actively involved in both the LA and national PR communities. I see my role not just as a PR professional, but as someone who can help open doors for the next generation, especially aspiring PR pros from Filipino and Asian backgrounds. Mentorship and representation matter, and I take that responsibility seriously.

Are there any cultural values or traditions from your upbringing that you carry with you into your work?

Absolutely. I don’t know if this is a Filipino thing, but it’s about the value of hard work. Looking at my mom, who raised us in a single-parent household, she worked tirelessly, at one point, seven days a week! Of course, my lola handled all the cooking, cleaning, ironing, and laundry, but she also laid down the law, made sure we did our homework, and did our chores. She also tried to take us to church every Sunday, teaching us the importance of faith, belonging, and being good people. These are values that remain with me, still part of my fabric and my DNA.

Can you share a story about a challenge you faced as a Filipino American in your field and how you overcame it?

Early in my career, I rarely saw other Filipino Americans in PR or any other person of color or diverse background. With my last name, I often received confused looks, like, “Asian? Irish? What’s going on here?” Also, I didn’t speak up as much back then. I’m not sure if that’s a Filipino thing or just an Asian thing in general, but I was more timid and definitely less assertive than I am now.

Because of that, there were times when my perspective wasn’t taken seriously or I was expected to simply blend in rather than lead. However, over time, I learned to trust my instincts and embrace what makes me different instead of trying to hide it. Once I started speaking from a place of authenticity, people listened differently, and that change opened doors not just for me, but for others who came after.

How do you see the community contributing to the broader professional landscape today?

We’ve come a long way as Filipino Americans in PR. Now I see so many in our field. To some, I’m their adopted kuya (I’m looking at you, Kristelle, Ely). This, to me, brings so much joy not just for me but for our people. Seeing more and more smart, talented, driven Filipino Americans in our field. Heck, the PRSA-LA chapter is going to have our first chapter president of Filipino American background next year (what up Tony). And I would say in general, and something someone in the local LA PR community said to me in passing at an event, “Filipino Americans are so hot right now.” We’re in so many industries: entertainment, food, drinks, arts, tech, and communications. These are industries that are not typical of Filipino Americans, yet here we are. I feel like this collective presence is changing the landscape.

Have you had a mentor or role model within the community who has inspired you?

From a Filipino American background? Honestly, no. Throughout my career, I didn’t really have anyone within the community I could point to as a mentor. But now, I can say I’ve become that person for others, including some who are part of the community, which is something I’m really proud of.

What ways do you stay connected to your roots while navigating a professional environment?

I stay grounded and connected to my roots by helping others, making intros, showing up, attending community events, or supporting Filipino-owned businesses. 

What achievements are you most proud of?

I’m proud of building a PR career that has enabled me to support innovative companies and meaningful causes, while staying true to my values. I’m also proud of mentoring younger professionals, especially those from underrepresented backgrounds, and helping them navigate spaces where we’re not always expected to lead.

Can you share a memorable experience where your Filipino identity played a role in a professional opportunity or project?

One moment that really stands out was leading the first meetup of the new PRSA AAPINH Affinity Group at the 2025 PRSA Western District Conference. It was such a highlight, we had about 20 people show up, and seeing everyone come together like that was incredibly meaningful.

Another moment was sharing my story on the First to Thrive podcast. Both of these experiences filled me with so much pride in my background and gave me a chance to share my journey in a real, authentic way.

In what ways do you think celebrating this month impacts younger generations in the community?

Visibility and representation are important. When younger Filipinos see stories, leaders, and cultural moments highlighted, it shows them they don’t have to hide or downplay who they are to succeed. It affirms their identity and broadens their sense of possibility. Celebrating these moments builds confidence.

Looking forward, what changes or progress would you like to see for Filipino Americans in professional spaces?

I want to see more Filipinos in executive and decision-making roles. Not just excellent contributors, but those shaping strategies. I’d love to see our community embrace visibility, take up space unapologetically, and continue supporting each other as we rise. I also want our stories to be shared more widely, not as mere footnotes but as central chapters.

Filipino American History Month is a powerful reminder of the strength in our roots, the enduring power of family, and our community’s vibrant spirit, building a legacy through shared stories, celebrated achievements, and mutual upliftment. In this spirit, an interview explores a Filipino American’s journey in the PR industry, revealing how their heritage, instilled with values of hard work and resilience, shaped their career. Despite early challenges like a lack of representation and personal timidity, they embraced their identity, using their unique perspective to lead. Now, they passionately mentor the next generation of Filipino and Asian PR professionals, celebrate the community’s growing visibility, and advocate for more Filipino Americans in leadership, making FAHM a time for pride, reflection, and ensuring their community’s stories are central to the conversation.