In honor of Women’s History Month this March, the Salt Lake Chamber is spotlighting influential women throughout Utah. By sharing their stories and insights, we aim to raise awareness about the significance of Women’s History Month.
Tiffeny Yen-Louie is the chief marketing officer of World Trade Center Utah and managing partner of Henrie Group, a spinout of R&R Partners’ Utah advocacy division. A strategic communicator and connector, she specializes in public affairs and building relationships that drive impact across the public and private sectors. Tiffeny rarely misses a chance to explore a new city — especially its food scene.
Who are women in your life who have influenced you?
The women who’ve come before me — my grandma, mom and aunts. They’ve all owned businesses and served as primary providers for their households. When my grandma lost her business during the Vietnam War, she built a new one that eventually supported the family’s escape. My mom and aunts later started nail salons in California and Utah, navigating complex business requirements — licenses, taxes and regulations — all while overcoming language barriers.
What pivotal moments or decisions have shaped your career the most?
Deciding not to take the planned path changed everything. I had always envisioned myself finishing school and leaving the state or leaving after a few years of work experience. But the most pivotal moment came when I let go of self-imposed milestones that left me disappointed when I missed them. When I stopped planning to leave and simply showed up more, unexpected opportunities emerged. I built a network, and these connections have led me to more interesting initiatives and projects to be a part of. I’ve found that, at least for me, the unplanned paths have been far more fulfilling.
As Chief Marketing Officer at World Trade Center Utah, what project are you most proud to be a part of?
It’s hard to pick just one “project” — we regularly host diplomats and notable individuals from around the world, including presidents, ambassadors and even a princess and baroness. I’m incredibly proud of two event series that focused on elevating women. Our annual International Women’s Day celebration with the Women’s Business Center of Utah has grown impressively in both substance and attendance. I love watching our teams collaborate to create an inspiring and uplifting platform. The event’s growing attendance over the years has fostered meaningful dialogue and camaraderie among our team, partners and the women and men who attend.
Our Women’s Leadership Breakfast series have featured visiting female leaders from Saudi Arabia, the U.K., Armenia and Sierra Leone who have discussed the importance of women in global leadership positions and shared their experiences navigating male-dominated spaces. I’ve been grateful for the strong support from team members and partners — men and women — throughout these initiatives.
Of all the places you’ve traveled, which one holds a special place in your heart and why?
The one spot that I am continually thinking of is Hong Kong. I’ve visited several times since I was nine, with each trip at a different stage of life, and have had some incredibly memorable experiences there. I love its unique blend of cultures, incredible food scene, hectic business districts and calming waterfront. The blend of Eastern and Western influences gave me a sense of belonging.
If you could give your younger self one piece of advice, what would it be?
A piece of advice I would give would be to slow down and don’t pressure yourself to grow up so fast. Take that study abroad opportunity and allow yourself more time to explore. I felt pressured to jump straight into a career and chase milestones that were, in reality, completely arbitrary.
