At Global Women Power, one of our core beliefs is the transformative power of a woman’s sense of purpose. This ‘sense of purpose’ is an inner drive that not only helps her overcome obstacles, but also allows her to make a long-term impact on her family, community, and the world around her.
We believe that a true Shero is a woman who gracefully balances her family responsibilities while carving her own path to a sense of self. This blog honours Mayor Lily Mei, an extraordinary leader who exemplifies these qualities- her story is a powerful reminder that leadership does not always follow the anticipated path and that motherhood may be a transformative experience for women who want to be more as it encourages women to face obstacles, propose solutions, and take brave actions towards their goals.
Mayor Lily Mei created history as the first female and minority mayor of Fremont, California, in the 62-year city. She told us her unusual road to leadership—one moulded by her experiences as a mother, a member of a community, and a professional with keen business sense.
Her life plan didn’t always include becoming a Mayor. Mayor Mei answered honestly when asked whether she had always wanted to be in this position: it was not a childhood dream or a long-term goal.
. “I don’t think there was a moment other than when I ran for the election before that,” she reflected. “Different jobs, experiences, and living in the city gave me the perspective and interest to serve in this capacity.”
Her path to civic leadership was sparked by a profound personal motivation: the education of her children. As a mother of two—a 21-year-old daughter and a 17-year-old son—she encountered the challenges present in Fremont’s school system firsthand. She shared a significant moment when her daughter, who was in kindergarten at the time, faced an overwhelming amount of academic pressure. This issue prompted her to participate in school meetings, where she observed the frustration and emotion expressed by parents.
She used her business expertise to handle the problems in a positive way rather than giving in to the chaos. She said, “I thought there might be a more positive way ” as she sought to develop significant answers by collaborating with the school district and other parents.
This was her first move towards community involvement which fostered a stronger commitment to civic engagement. Mayor Mei believes that the position of a leader is generally motivated by a desire to confront difficulties in a meaningful way.
From PTA to Public Office: Mayor Mei’s Path to Building Community Engagement
Growing up in an immigrant family from China to Taiwan, Canada, and eventually Chicago, Mayor Mei was inspired by her mother from an early age. “Even though my mother wasn’t familiar with the educational system and her English wasn’t always the smoothest, she made it a point to be involved,” she shared.
She followed in her mother’s footsteps by actively participating in their preschool activities and later the PTA. She values these moments, emphasising, “Your kids grow up very fast, and being involved gives you a chance to truly know your child and their friends.”
Her involvement went beyond the PTA. Mayor Mei, a lifelong Girl Scout and former Explorer in the Boy Scouts, has also held leadership positions in community organisations. However, she feels that leadership is more than just holding formal titles. ““To be involved in the community doesn’t mean you have to be elected or the leader. What matters is taking a role and participating, she explained.
Her approach as mayor is based on a collaborative problem-solving mentality. While she understands complaints about difficulties such as traffic congestion, she emphasises the significance of actively participating. “It’s more valuable when people are not just pointing out problems but also willing to be part of the solutions,” she noted.
Brighter Streets and Engaged Communities: Mayor Mei’s Vision for Fremont
Mayor Mei has always believed that a community thrives when its people work together to overcome challenges and find solutions. “We are much stronger when we work together,” she says, emphasising the value of collaborative involvement. Her leadership as mayor exemplifies this attitude, with measures that improve both the city’s infrastructure and its sense of community.
The Mobility Task Force, a group of 14 community members working with the city council to produce a comprehensive mobility strategy, is one example of such collaboration. This year-long effort, which includes increasing safety and smart signalling as well as gathering community feedback through surveys, highlights Fremont’s dedication to addressing transportation concerns while encouraging public participation.
Mayor Mei also emphasises Fremont’s attempts to become a more vibrant and environmentally responsible community. A city-wide project replaced traditional streetlights with energy-efficient LED lights, significantly boosting visibility and safety at crosswalks while lowering energy costs. “We had a slide in the State of the City that showed a before-and-after comparison, and the difference was clear—literally,” she says. This project not only captured the public’s attention, but it also demonstrated Fremont’s commitment to sustainability.
Education remains a key component of Mayor Mei’s approach. In collaboration with the police, the city recently organised a traffic safety talk at the library, where citizens could ask concerns and learn about best practices for road safety. While technology, such as flashing crosswalk lights, increases visibility, she cautions everyone that “common sense still prevails.” Always look left and right; technology is a tool, not a magical barrier.”
Fremont’s commitment to promoting community spirit is demonstrated by activities such as the annual Kids and Kites Festival, which draws families together for a day of fun and connection. Such events improve the relationship between citizens and the city, instilling a sense of pride and purpose.
Fremont’s Focus on Safety and Preparedness: Mayor Mei’s Commitment to Community Resilience
Mayor Mei is committed to instilling a sense of readiness and safety in Fremont’s community. She tries to provide residents with the knowledge and resources they need to respond effectively to emergencies through a variety of programs, activities, and simulations.
The Public Safety Fair, which takes place every other year, is a key component of this initiative. This event brings together Fremont’s fire and police departments, giving locals the opportunity to learn about public safety programs. Mayor Mei is delightedly reported that over 2,600 people engaged in the city’s emergency preparedness and Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) programs last year alone. “It’s about ensuring that, in a real emergency, we are collectively prepared,” she explained.
With Fremont’s population approaching 235,000, the ratio of emergency responders to citizens emphasises the value of community involvement. “Our police and fire departments are limited in staff, so in a natural disaster, we rely heavily on our citizens to be prepared and take action,” she said.
Emergency drills are another important component of Fremont’s safety policy. Mayor Mei urges schools and families to participate in earthquake exercises, citing her own experiences on school campuses. “Being proactive at the school and home level can make all the difference,” she emphasised.
Engaging Fremont Residents: Mayor Mei on Staying Informed and Getting Involved
As Fremont’s first female and minority mayor, Mayor Mei is committed to empowering residents to be informed and actively shape the city’s future. Fremont offers individuals a variety of ways to connect with local governance and community activities, including newsletters, social media, and city council meetings.
“Communication is key,” Mayor Mei emphasises. Fremont’s city newsletter, issued to households by mail, provides regular updates on local events, initiatives, and projects. For individuals looking for more up-to-date information, the city’s official website and social media outlets, including Twitter, offer frequent updates and announcements.
Fremont’s Economic Development Department provides services and updates to business-minded people through its website, which includes access to Silicon Valley organisations. This guarantees that both businesses and residents stay informed about Fremont’s economic progress and prospects.
City council meetings, conducted on the first three Tuesdays of each month, are another excellent opportunity for locals to participate. These seminars typically begin at 7 p.m. at Fremont City Hall, with occasional earlier study sessions on specific themes such as traffic or homelessness. Mayor Mei urges locals to attend these sessions to express their views and participate in the decision-making process.
Recognising that not everyone can attend in person, Fremont has taken a more inclusive approach, using study sessions to hold in-depth conversations on crucial themes. For example, upcoming sessions will centre on homelessness and traffic management, allowing for intelligent discussion and public engagement.
However, Mayor Mei recognises the procedural restrictions of council meetings: “If an issue is not on the agenda, we can’t directly respond during the meeting because it hasn’t been publicly noticed.” She emphasises the necessity of structured and transparent processes to ensure that all opinions are heard in the proper context.
Fremont’s commitment to community engagement extends beyond City Hall. Initiatives such as emergency preparedness programs, public safety fairs, and collaborative events such as the Haywired seismic simulation drill demonstrate the city’s proactive effort to meaningfully engaging its inhabitants.
Mayor Mei’s message to residents is clear: “There are so many ways to stay informed and get involved. By participating, whether through attending meetings, engaging on social media, or simply being aware of city events, we can all contribute to making Fremont a stronger and more connected community.”
Building Community in Fremont: Mayor Mei on Engagement, Safety, and Diversity
Creative Public Safety Initiatives
Fremont’s public safety departments are embracing new ways to engage with the community. Badges and Boba, Custard with Cops, and Cannolis and Cops are all enjoyable and approachable ways for citizens to express their concerns about traffic and crime.
“Partnerships are critical for public safety,” Mayor Mei stated. She emphasises the need of using technology, such as video camera registration, to help law enforcement solve crimes swiftly. Collaborations between residents and the city are critical to building trust and developing realistic solutions.
National Night Out: Strengthening Neighborhood Ties
The annual National Night Out is a shining example of Fremont’s dedication to community involvement. Last year, over 120 neighbourhood celebrations were held, and the mayor, city council, police, fire department, and volunteers attended each one. This evening of companionship and open dialogue allows neighbours to interact, express their concerns, and enjoy their neighbourhood.
“Sometimes these events highlight issues we wouldn’t otherwise notice,” Mei, our mayor, says. For example, residents have expressed concerns about safety dangers such as potholes, prompting her to personally investigate and fight for their resolution.
Making Reporting Easier
For residents seeking to address city concerns, Fremont’s “Report a Concern” tool on its website streamlines the process. From reporting broken streetlights to traffic issues, the platform directs concerns to the appropriate departments, enabling faster resolution.
Mayor Mei encourages residents to use this system: “It’s not that I don’t want to hear from you, but this ensures the right team handles your issue promptly.”
Celebrating Diversity
One of Fremont’s greatest strengths is its diversity. Mayor Mei cherishes participating in cultural and religious events, which foster mutual understanding and appreciation.
“Fremont’s diversity is something truly special,” she reflects. From Thanksgiving faith gatherings to celebrations of various cultures and religions, the city’s inclusive spirit enriches its community fabric.
A Unique and Thriving Community
Mayor Mei’s vision for Fremont is based on strengthening community ties and ensuring residents feel heard and appreciated. Fremont is an example of a city that values collaboration and inclusivity, as evidenced by its innovative safety programs, proactive government, and cultural diversity.
“Fremont is a unique place to live,” she concluded. “When we work together, we can achieve so much more.”
Mayor Mei on Community, Mentorship, and Representation
The Power of Mentorship and Community Support
Mayor Mei’s journey has been aided by a close-knit group she lovingly refers to as the “Mom Squad“—friends she has known since her children were in kindergarten. They’ve been her sounding board, providing honest feedback and constant support.
She also values mentorship and tells the experience of a little girl she met at a community education fair. This girl announced her desire to become President of the United States and has remained active in her community as she has grown older. Mayor Mei believes that watching her grow into a strong leader serves as a poignant reminder of the need of investing in the next generation.
Representation Beyond Labels
As an Asian American, Mayor Mei discussed her unique perspective and the significance of representation. Growing up on the East Coast, she only saw one Asian elected person, which made her realise the importance of diversity in leadership.
“When I first ran for office, it wasn’t about representing one group—it was about creating awareness, fostering interest in diverse cultures, and building connections that enhance the community experience,” she explained.
A Commitment to Education and Community
Mayor Mei on Cultural Respect, Community Engagement, and Hands-On Leadership
Mayor Mei’s leadership philosophy centres on cultural sensitivity, active listening, and a hands-on approach to serving her diverse community. She exhibits an admirable dedication to promoting inclusivity, solving local issues, and establishing genuine connections.
Mayor Mei emphasises the significance of respecting and embracing her community’s traditional practices. She emphasises that learning national anthems and adopting cultural rituals are meaningful shows of respect.
“When I visit mosques, I always bring a headscarf, not because it’s my faith but because I respect their traditions. It’s about understanding and showing that I value their culture,” she shares.
During her time on the school board, she championed projects such as Sikh Awareness Day and hosted cultural feasts for principals and board members to foster understanding and celebration of diversity. Her involvement includes visits to various religious centres such as gurdwaras, mosques, temples, and synagogues to ensure representation and inclusivity at municipal events.
Engaging with the Community
Mayor Mei believes in connecting directly with her constituents to understand their concerns firsthand.
- Fire Stations and First Responders: During the holiday season, she went to each fire station, delivering cupcakes and spending time with the firefighters. “It’s not just about receiving reports but hearing firsthand what they experience,” she told. During these visits, she learnt about difficulties such as late-night rescue operations at the Warm Springs BART station and worked with transit authorities to handle them efficiently.
- Health and Social Services: By attending health fairs and warming centres, she recognised significant community needs, such as providing free flu and hepatitis A vaccines to disadvantaged groups.
- Meals on Wheels: By participating in programs like Life ElderCare’s Meals on Wheels, she was able to meet with seniors and learn how they use local facilities such as the Northgate Park trails. These personal experiences frequently influence her initiatives, as evidenced by the inclusion of these highlights in her State of the City address.
Affordable Housing and Senior Living
Mayor Mei recognizes affordable housing as a pressing issue for many residents. She proudly notes Fremont’s unique approach to building senior housing to meet the needs of an aging population. Her deep understanding of the city’s challenges stems from years of engagement with residents through town hall meetings, school board involvement, and city council leadership.
Building the City, Literally
Hands-on involvement is a key part of Mayor Mei’s leadership philosophy. For her birthday, she chose to spend the day working with friends from her “mom squad” on a Habitat for Humanity project. The group spent the morning digging trenches and the afternoon constructing parts of the building, even working at heights on scaffolding.
“It’s a beautiful day to have the sweat equity literally built into the city,” she says. Mayor Mei is also excited about an upcoming Women’s Leadership Build with Habitat for Humanity, encouraging other women to join her in hands-on community service. She highlights the importance of construction and trades education for women, noting that Fremont has excellent women-led construction programs.
Bringing Business Experience to Public ServiceHands-on involvement is an important aspect of Mayor Mei’s leadership style. She chose to spend her birthday working with friends from her “mom squad” on a Habitat for Humanity project. The group spent the morning digging trenches and the afternoon constructing elements of the building, including working at heights using scaffolding.
“It’s a beautiful day to have the sweat equity literally built into the city,” she shares. Mayor Mei is also looking forward to an upcoming Women’s Leadership Build with Habitat for Humanity, which she hopes will bring other women together for hands-on community service. She emphasises the need of building and trades education for women, citing Fremont’s successful women-led construction initiatives.
Mayor Mei brings her previous business experience as a product manager and trade association leader to her role in public service. Her background in sales, technology, and intellectual property counterfeiting prevention gives her valuable insights into how businesses function and the challenges they face.
“I visited about 50 companies last year to learn firsthand what they need,” she shares. Her approach is grounded in understanding the real-world issues affecting both residents and businesses, helping her make more informed decisions as a leader.
Advice for Future Leaders
For those interested in public service, Mayor Mei offers some valuable advice: “You don’t have to be elected to get involved. It helps if you find something you’re passionate about, whether it’s music, arts, or traffic, and get involved with the community.” She stresses that the investment you make in your community is something you receive back tenfold.
The Value of Servant Leadership
For Mayor Mei, leadership is not about title; it’s about service. By staying actively engaged with her community, whether through Habitat for Humanity, affordable housing projects, or direct interactions with businesses, she exemplifies how hands-on leadership can build stronger, more connected communities.
“What you put in is what you get out,” she says, highlighting the rewards of investing in service to others and the value of a deep, personal connection with the people you serve.
Bridging Policy with People
A Commitment to Serving the People
Mayor Mei shares a quote from Franklin: “A politician thinks about their next election; a statesman thinks about the people.” This quote encapsulates her approach to leadership. She believes that her role is not about the next opportunity or election but about serving the community to the best of her ability.
Mayor Mei’s leadership is characterized by dedication and a desire to encourage others to get involved in public service. She humbly acknowledges the community’s role in her success and emphasizes the importance of creating a space for dialogue in elections. “I’m not about saying, ‘vote for me, I’m the best.’ I believe people should decide for themselves who’s the best,” she explains.
Her 25 years in Fremont, 15 years of PTA involvement, and over a decade of public service show her commitment to the city and its residents. She hopes that her example will inspire others, especially the next generation, to make a difference in their communities.
The Humbling Experience of Campaigning
Running for office involves physically and emotionally engaging with the community. Mayor Mei shares how she walks the precincts, knocks on doors, and attends events, getting to know people on a deeper level. She notes that “showing up” and connecting with residents is one of the most impactful parts of her role.
While campaigning can be challenging, including maintaining her health and fitness by walking and talking with constituents, she finds it rewarding. “I’ve lost 15-20 pounds each time I run,” she jokes, but emphasizes how physically and emotionally fulfilling it is to engage with the community in such a personal way.
Supporting Community Activities and Recreation
Beyond politics, Mayor Mei actively promotes local recreational activities, such as the Niles Canyon walk/run and the Niles Historic Walking Tour. These events not only showcase Fremont’s rich history but also provide opportunities for residents to connect and enjoy the city’s parks and natural spaces.
The Bigger Picture: A Vision for Fremont’s Future
Ultimately, Mayor Mei’s leadership is focused on serving others and creating opportunities for everyone in Fremont. Whether it’s running for office, building a sense of community, or simply having fun with friends, she remains dedicated to making a positive impact in the lives of those she serves.
Leadership and Community: Mei’s Reflection on Fremont’s Progress and the Power of Civic Engagement
As Mayor Mei led Fremont, she aimed to create a lively, connected city in which inhabitants interact with one another and appreciate local traditions. From organising a fun-filled burger cook-off between the fire and police departments to creating a makerspace with activities like ping pong tables and beer gardens, Fremont is becoming a place where people can not only have fun but also come together and establish stronger friendships.
Creating A Fun and Inclusive Environment
In order to build a more entertaining and lively downtown area, Mei emphasised the need of creating locations where citizens feel connected. She aspires to make Fremont a happier and more unified community, whether through creative spaces or leisure activities. The community’s focus on well-being and inclusivity extends beyond activities to appreciating each other’s uniqueness and addressing shared concerns such as public safety, traffic, and homelessness. The city’s ranking as one of the happiest locations in the country reflects the collaborative efforts of people and officials to establish a caring community.
Engaging the Community in Change
Mei emphasises the importance of residents playing an active part in moulding Fremont’s future. She urges individuals to participate in local committees, schools, and disaster preparedness activities, as well as voice their concerns. She adds that the success of any city is dependent on the involvement of its citizens, particularly those who volunteer and demonstrate a commitment to their communities.
Balance of Family and Service
Her call to action is clear: don’t merely talk about problems; help solve them. This hands-on approach, she feels, is critical for addressing Fremont’s constant changes and guaranteeing its long-term success.
Serving as mayor has not been easy, particularly when it comes to juggling family and public service. Mei freely admits the sacrifices her family has made. Her husband and children have been her support system, allowing her to serve while remaining at home. Her children, who now understand the significance of civic engagement, are learning the value of public service directly.
When Mei first joined the school board, her son would object, saying he didn’t want her to leave because it would mean missing bedtime readings. However, her willingness to integrate her family in her public service, including bringing them to community activities, has helped to close the gap between her professional and home lives. Mei believes that it is critical for the public to perceive her as more than just an elected politician, but as a human being with a family that values community as much as she does.
A Call for Unity Amid Divisiveness
She understands that divisiveness occurs at both the local and national levels, particularly when it comes to partisanship and ideals. However, she urges Fremont citizens to disagree respectfully while also finding common ground. Listening to other points of view and accepting diverse viewpoints, she believes, are critical to ensure that Fremont stays a place where everyone feels appreciated and heard.
With three years remaining in her term, Mayor Mei is determined to bring out the best in her city, even in the face of adversity. Her leadership is about more than simply policy; it is about developing a culture of understanding and community involvement, in which residents collaborate to solve problems and generate long-term change.
Looking Ahead with Hope and Determination
Mei’s journey is a reminder that public service is more than just a position—it’s about building relationships, making a difference, and fostering a sense of belonging. She continues to serve with the support of her family, friends, and community, striving to make Fremont a city where people care for one another and work together toward a brighter future. “It’s a privilege to serve,” she says, and as she embarked on her second year as mayor, she remains committed to bringing out the best in Fremont.
Mayor Mei’s vision for Fremont is clear: a city that is safer, smarter, and more connected through collective efforts. Her leadership reminds us that progress isn’t just about policies or infrastructure—it’s about empowering individuals to participate and make a difference in their community.
Lily Mei exemplifies how a woman can achieve social freedom while remaining a committed mother. Her journey exemplifies the balance between caring for her family and making major contributions to her community. She has demonstrated that caring for her children is more than just an act of love; it is an essential component of her leadership, demonstrating that a woman’s strength, resilience, and sense of purpose can enable her to have a long-term effect. She reflects the ideas that Global Women Power represents: enabling women to succeed in all aspects of their lives.
At Global Women Power, we proudly proclaim that a woman’s ability to care for her children while pursuing her personal and professional goals is critical to her social freedom. We understand that motherhood is a tremendous force that motivates women to be leaders, change-makers, and role models in their communities. By assisting women in balancing family duties and aspirations, we enable them to attain both personal fulfilment and broader societal impact.
