In this episode of Money Tales, our guest is Joyce Chung. Joyce grew up in Honolulu with immigrant parents who modeled discipline, frugality and a deep commitment to education, even though money was rarely discussed out loud. After leaving Hawaii for MIT and later building a career in tech and venture capital, Joyce found herself learning a whole new relationship with risk, wealth and what it means to use money with intention. In our converssation Joyce shares how those lessons shaped the biggest financial choices in her family and inspired the mission behind her foundation.
Joyce began her career in operating roles in the technology industry (Cambridge Technology Partners, Sony Corporation, Adobe Systems) and transitioned to early stage venture capital (Adobe Ventures, Cardinal Venture Capital, Garage Technology Ventures), investing in technology entrepreneurs looking to change the world. She has always had a passion for innovation and entrepreneurship and working with people that are excited about using creativity, technology and hard work to solve real world problems. In 2023, she pivoted to focusing on philanthropy to help address pressing needs and challenges in the areas of community resilience, entrepreneurship and environment. Joyce and her husband set up Makahakama Foundation, a foundation to channel their efforts in giving back to their local community, helping under-resourced entrepreneurs and supporting nature through conservation and innovation. Supporting mission-driven individuals and nonprofit organizations brings together the causes of importance to her family and the skills she has developed over her career. She holds an SB in Chemical Engineering from MIT and an MBA from Stanford Graduate School of Business.
When Purpose Becomes a Plan
Joyce’s journey from an immigrant upbringing shaped by frugality and resilience to building the Makahakama Foundation shows how wealth can become a catalyst for meaningful change. Guided by the Aloha spirit and deeply held family values, Makahakama focuses on community resilience, under-resourced entrepreneurs, and environmental stewardship. It’s a powerful reminder that philanthropy isn’t just about giving. It’s about being intentional, taking thoughtful risks, and creating impact you can see in your lifetime.
If you’re thinking about how to give back more intentionally, an Aspiriant advisor can help you explore philanthropic strategies, structure a foundation or donor-advised fund, and align your wealth with the causes and values that matter most to you and your family.
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