📍 Rạch Giá, Vietnam → Ames, Iowa
📸 Instagram: @jackson_oakley

Meet Jackson

Hi, I’m Jackson Oakley! I was born in Rạch Giá, Vietnam, and adopted in 2000 by my awesome parents, Amy and Matt. I grew up in Iowa with my two adopted sisters, Elizabeth and Olivia, who are originally from Guatemala.

Soccer was a big part of my life—I played for 19 years and loved every minute of it. I also had the chance to study abroad in England, which kicked off my love for travel. Since then, I’ve been lucky enough to visit places like Vietnam, Guatemala, France, Scotland, and South Korea. I’m all about exploring new cultures, meeting new people, and making the most out of every experience.

On Being an AANHPI Adoptee

Being an adoptee and part of the AANHPI community means living at the intersection of different cultures and identities. I was born in Vietnam and raised in Iowa, and that contrast has shaped how I see the world and myself.

It hasn’t always been easy to navigate where I fit in, but it’s given me a unique perspective and a deep appreciation for both my Vietnamese roots and the family that raised me. It’s a big part of who I am, and I’m proud to represent that blend.

Rediscovering My Cultural Identity

*Jackson meeting his birth family in Vietnam in 2018*

Over time, I’ve deepened my understanding of myself as an adopted Vietnamese person. My appreciation for Vietnamese culture has grown immensely, especially after reconnecting with my birth family overseas. They’ve warmly shared their traditions and heritage with me, helping me understand where I come from in a much more personal way.

One of the most meaningful moments each year is when they reach out to wish me a joyful Tết, the Vietnamese Lunar New Year. It’s a beautiful reminder of our shared roots and the love that spans across continents.

Finding My Way to Ties

I first connected with Ties during a private return trip to Vietnam in 2018 with my adoptive family. Later, in 2023, I traveled on the Guatemalan Ties program, where I had the chance to meet more of the Ties staff—and their warmth and purpose really stuck with me.

Travel has always been a passion of mine, especially when it means connecting with people from different backgrounds. That visit planted a seed in me: a desire to explore my birth country more intentionally—not just as a traveler, but as someone seeking deeper roots and connection.

A Meaningful Moment

One of the most powerful moments for me was watching my sisters reconnect with their roots and meet their birth family. It was emotional and unforgettable. I felt lucky to witness it.

A close second would be the privilege of staffing the 2024 Korean Ties group. Being part of that journey and witnessing others explore their identities made me feel even more grateful to be part of the Ties community.

On Traveling with Other Adoptees

Traveling with other adoptees was deeply moving. Each person carried their own story—full of strength, questions, and heart—and hearing them made me feel seen in ways I hadn’t before. We formed a bond that felt like family.

It opened my heart to how many layers there are to identity and belonging. I came away not only more connected to myself, but also with a genuine desire to help others navigate this path. Ties gave me something I didn’t know I was missing.

What I Wish People Knew

I wish more people understood that being an adoptee in the AANHPI community can feel both connected and disconnected at the same time. We often grow up in cultures that aren’t our own while looking like we belong somewhere else—which can lead to a lot of “Wait… so you don’t speak [insert language]?” moments.

It’s funny sometimes, but also a reminder of the identity gaps we constantly navigate. Despite that, there’s strength in reclaiming our heritage, learning our stories, and finding connection in spaces that see us.

A Message to the Community

To other adoptees and members of the AANHPI community:

Your story is uniquely yours—and it’s powerful. You might carry questions, loss, pride, or a mix of all three, but none of that makes your identity any less valid or beautiful.

You belong, even on the days you feel like you’re still figuring out where.

Embrace the journey of rediscovery. Lean into the parts of yourself that feel unfamiliar. And know that connection can bloom in the most unexpected places.

There is space for you—in this community, in your heritage, and in the world.

AANHPI Heritage Month Spotlight: Jackson Oakley