Security Check:
Asia works for TED as their in-house linguist in New York, as a speaker of 6 languages (English, Spanish, French, Portugese, Russian and Catalan). She is also in charge of the TEDx Instagram Feed and the office jellyfish (#TEDJellies).

What’s your historical London and New York connection?
I’m from all over. I was born in Hong Kong but spent my formative years in the UK. After finishing my A’levels, I travelled a lot, moving to 5 other countries (Spain, China, Russia, Brazil and Chile) before settling in New York. Now happily residing in Bushwick.

Describe your experience in New York as a Londoner.
The OKCupid scene in New York is insane.

How can New York and London better engage with each other?
Transatlantic dance parties.

Favorite NYC secret spot:
Dil-e Punjab Deli – This place is a hole in the wall type place but it has the best Indian food I’ve had in New York and is always filled with really interesting people.
Favorite London secret spot:
Sông Quê Cafe – This place is just really fun. I love mooching about the area in general.

If you could live anywhere in the world, where would it be and why? 

I would love to go back to Russia and live in Moscow for a bit. i don’t agree at all with their recent LGBT propaganda law but Russia is such a fascinating place and I need to go back.

In flight entertainment: 

• What’s playing in your headphones right now? Goda tungl by Samaris. I like all sounds in Icelandic.
• And what are you currently reading? A Tree Grows in Brooklyn by Deckle Edge.