May is Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander (AANHPI) Heritage Month, recognizing the contributions of over 40 cultures, including those from East Asia, South Asia, Southeast Asia and the Pacific Islands. This year’s theme is Woven in Resilience, highlighting the strength and perseverance of AANHPI individuals.

To celebrate, Bass, Berry & Sims is honored to highlight two colleagues, Accounts Payable Specialist Prateek Kumar and Corporate & Securities Associate Injee Hong, who reflect the richness of AANHPI culture and contributions.

Injee Hong | Associate | Nashville

How long have you been interested in the legal profession?

It probably sounds cliché, but I have been interested in the legal profession since I was in middle school. The drive to pursue a profession in the legal industry truly solidified during my sophomore year of college when I more tangibly experienced how a career in the legal industry provided an opportunity for me to advocate and problem solve for clients and causes I care about on a daily basis.

Which area of law do you practice?

I am in the corporate practice and counsel clients on corporate and securities matters including mergers and acquisitions and capital markets transactions. Additionally, I work with private equity firms and portfolio companies in various transactions.

What do you enjoy most about practicing law?

I was initially drawn to the practice of law because I loved the intellectual challenge and complexity of the work that fulfilled my desire to be a life-long learner and advocate for others. However, the people I have had the opportunity to learn from and work with here at Bass, Berry & Sims have been the most enjoyable part of practicing law. Every day, I am blown away by the knowledge, experience and empathy of my colleagues.

What do you most enjoy about Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander (AANHPI) Heritage Month?

Asian Heritage Month is an important reminder to celebrate my heritage, other Asian cultures and all the people who have forged the path for me and others who look like me to be where I am today. The legal industry must continue to evolve and adapt, but I am grateful for the opportunity to work at a firm that celebrates all diverse backgrounds and perspectives. That diversity has enhanced and enriched my experience at the firm and continues to position all of us to be better lawyers and citizens outside of our work.

What do you like to do in your spare time?

In my spare time, I enjoy exploring new restaurants in Nashville, pretending I am a semi-professional home cook (when I am not eating out at said new restaurants), going to the lake and walking the greenway in Sylvan Park.

Prateek Kumar | AP Specialist | Nashville

Where did you grow up? If it was somewhere outside of Nashville, what prompted you to move?

I spent most of my formative years in Houston, Texas. Then I followed my better half to Nashville for her work about eight years ago. We’ve settled down here and I’ve been able to establish great roots thanks to the opportunity I found here at Bass, Berry & Sims.

What does Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander (AANHPI) Heritage Month mean to you personally and professionally?

Asian Americans are a widespread group across this country that have been and continue to be contributors in every aspect of American life. To have the opportunity to honor those communities and their work is special. We all benefit when we’re cognizant of the journeys that others take to become a part of our fabric here.

Are there any prominent trailblazers who have inspired you?

I’ve always been inspired by my parents. They came to America to give me access to all this country has to offer. Both worked to establish great careers in their respective fields and really embody the (Asian) American dream.

What do you like to do outside of work?

I’m a dad to two boys under the age of four so it’s chaos and fun every day these days. Recently, I started building Lego models with the older one which has been a fun flashback to my own childhood I’ve gotten to share with him.