May Xiong

I am a dedicated mother of four—two sons and two daughters—and a passionate advocate for education, empowerment, and community service. As a single mother, I pursued higher education with determination, earning a Master’s degree in Educational Leadership from Concordia University. For two decades, I taught English to immigrant students in the St. Paul Public School District, helping countless young people navigate the path toward their own American Dream. In addition to my work in education, I am a licensed real estate broker and life insurance agent, leveraging my skills to further support and uplift families in my community. I am currently launching a skincare line, May, a luxury yet affordable brand designed to help women feel confident and beautiful, inside and out. A portion of all sales will support women’s shelters and initiatives that protect Hmong girls in Laos and Vietnam from bride-napping. I am also the author of Memoir of a Kidnapped Bride, a courageous account of my personal experience as a kidnapped bride at the age of 14. My story is a testament to resilience, transformation, and the power of turning pain into purpose. Outside of my professional work, I am deeply involved in community outreach, mentoring youth and adults alike. I enjoy spending time with my pets—taking walks with my German Shepherd, Luna, and relaxing with my cats. I also love traveling and immersing myself in diverse cultures around the world. My ultimate goal is to empower women globally by sharing my journey through public speaking and advocacy, inspiring others to pursue their dreams fearlessly, no matter the challenges they face.