(SACRAMENTO, CA) May 11, 2026 – Assemblywoman Dr. Jasmeet Bains proudly announces Jay Tamsi, President and CEO of the Kern County Hispanic Chamber of Commerce (KCHCC) and the KCHCC Business Education Foundation, as the 35th Assembly District’s Honoree for the 2026 AAPI Heritage Month. Tamsi is honored for his influential leadership, daily commitment to uplifting AAPI heritage, and unwavering dedication to economic opportunity and community service throughout Kern County.
Jay Tamsi, a proud Mexican and Filipino American, has dedicated decades to building bridges and uniting communities across Kern County. Guided by values of faith, family, and service, he has advanced economic development, entrepreneurship, and multicultural engagement, launching initiatives that strengthen small businesses and expand access for underserved communities. From mentoring young entrepreneurs to preserving cultural landmarks, his work continues to shape the region’s future.
“Jay Tamsi’s vision and compassion have made him a champion for Kern County,” said Dr. Bains. “He embodies the values we honor during AAPI Heritage Month.”
A central pillar of Tamsi’s legacy is his commitment to preserving cultural identity. For 28 years, Tamsi has served the Filipino Community as its youngest President and now as Vice President. He helped preserve the historic Filipino Hall in Delano, a symbol of the 1965 Grape Strike, and led local and international relief efforts, notably raising over $300,000 for Typhoon Haiyan survivors alongside organizations such as the Red Cross, ABS-CBN, and UNICEF.
Tamsi’s impact extends to education and youth mentorship. He led programs such as KHSD Project PODER (Providing Opportunities for Development, Empowerment & Resilience), which connects underserved Latina students with business leaders, and partnered with Bakersfield College and the Kern Community College District on multiple educational initiatives. His work as Latino Outreach Coordinator was key to passing the Bakersfield College Measure J Bond, expanding access and opportunity for local students. As co-founder of the Immigration Justice Collaboration, he educates and empowers Kern County’s immigrant communities and undocumented workers.
He founded the KCHCC Small Business Academy, an eight-week program providing mentorship to thousands of entrepreneurs and small business owners, particularly in vulnerable communities. Over the past decade, the academy has contributed significantly to local economic development, particularly in Kern’s underserved areas. Tamsi continues to support local businesses through Tamsi Consulting Services, offering expertise in marketing and event planning.
Tamsi’s achievements have been recognized by federal, state, and local leaders. Honors include serving as Master of Ceremonies at a Congressional Gold Medal ceremony for Filipino WWII veterans, being the youngest recipient recognized by the Mexican American Pioneers Association, receiving the “Tu Voz, Tu Héroe” Award from Lotus Communications, and induction into the Bakersfield College Hall of Fame as the youngest member, recognized for his impact on community partnerships and economic prosperity. Tamsi was also named one of Bakersfield Life Magazine’s Top 10 Influencers for promoting diversity and inclusion.
During the pandemic, Tamsi played a key role in Kern County’s first Latino COVID-19 Task Force, leading efforts such as PPE distribution and FEMA outreach across 12 rural communities. He now serves on the Kern Health Systems Board of Directors, where he oversees healthcare services for more than 350,000 members and works to expand access to care for thousands of residents.
Jay Tamsi’s leadership continues to leave a lasting mark on Kern County. Through every initiative and act of service, he uplifts AAPI heritage every day. His advocacy for small businesses, cross-cultural collaboration, education, and community health has opened doors for residents across the region. As a proud Mexican and Filipino American, Tamsi sets an inspiring example through his dedication to championing cultural pride, expanding economic opportunity, and uniting diverse communities. The recognition of his achievements during AAPI Heritage Month reflects the ongoing and positive change he brings to Kern County and the legacy he builds for future generations.
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Dr. Jasmeet Bains represents the 35th Assembly District in Kern County, including the cities of Bakersfield, Delano, Wasco, Arvin, Shafter, and McFarland.