Old National’s Febby Lethem on Asian American, Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander (AANHPI) Heritage Month
Observed during May, Asian American, Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander (AANHPI) Heritage Month recognizes the contributions and influence of Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians and Pacific Islander Americans to the history, culture, and achievements of the United States.
President Jimmy Carter (1978) first signed a joint resolution recognizing a week’s celebration, while George H.W. Bush (1990) signed a bill extending the recognition to a month. President Barack Obama (2009) and President Joe Biden (2021) signed additional proclamations, with the latter adding the recognition for native Hawaiians.
This interview series with Old National Bank team member celebrates those whose families, like virtually all Americans, at one time immigrated and have helped shape the rich diversity found in the United States.
Febby Lethem
Relationship Banker
Ni Putu Pebrilia Andarini “Febby” Lethem is originally from Bali, Indonesia, and comes from a Balinese cultural background that deeply values family, tradition, and community. Growing up cooking with his mother and grandparents, he enjoys making Babi Ketjap (sweet soy pork), Ayam Betutu (spiced steamed chicken), and Lawar (a traditional vegetable and meat mix).
“I’m proud to be Balinese, and I try to keep our traditions alive, even while living in the U.S.,” says the nine-month Old National team member. “Whether it’s through cooking, small ceremonies, or simply sharing my culture with others, I love being able to celebrate what makes Bali so unique.”
Q. What does Asian American, Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander (AANHPI) Heritage Month mean to you?
AANHPI Heritage Month is a meaningful time to celebrate and reflect on the richness, diversity, and contributions of Asian, Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander cultures. It’s an opportunity to honor my Balinese roots and share the traditions and values I was raised with.
Q. Why is it important that organizations recognize heritage months?
Recognizing heritage months shows that an organization values inclusion and diversity beyond the surface. It helps create a sense of belonging and encourages education, awareness, and understanding among colleagues.
Q. Why is Old National’s value of Inclusion vital to you?
Inclusion means being seen, heard, and respected. As someone from a culture not widely represented in the U.S., I believe it means a lot to be part of a workplace that encourages us to bring our whole selves to work and values what makes each of us unique.
Q. Who is someone who identifies as AANHPI that you admire and why?
While I don’t have a specific AANHPI figure I look up to, I greatly admire all those who work to preserve and celebrate their cultural identities in spaces where their communities might be small or underrepresented.
Q. What do you wish people understood about AANHPI Heritage Month or the AANHPI community?
I wish people understood just how diverse the AANHPI community truly is. Each culture within it has its own history, language, customs, and identity. Balinese culture, for example, is distinct even within Indonesia and has its own traditions, ceremonies, and spiritual practices that are incredibly rich and beautiful.
To learn more about Asian American, Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander Heritage Month and the 2025 theme, “A Legacy of Leadership and Resilience,” click here.
