Jay Wang

President, Wasabi Group Inc.

Age: 39

Spouse: Yingna Zheng

Mentor: Jesse Bunny, operations manager, Lawmark Capital

Reasons he is a Forty: He has participated in Meals for the Heartland for seven years. He has participated in Best Buddies for 11 years. His annual event for the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, Andrea’s angels, raised $57,000.

What are your goals in your role at your company? Growth of businesses and employees.

What are your goals for your community involvement? Building the central kitchen to help fight hunger. 

What's your biggest passion, and why? My family. I want to teach my children not only the rewards of hard work, but also how you treat people matters.

What is it that drives you? When I moved to the U.S. from China, I had an opportunity to make my life whatever I wanted. All I had was my time, so I used it to outwork everyone else. The people of DSM gave me their trust and I work hard every day to return that trust with my absolute best.

What are your future aspirations? As we expand our portfolio, we are working with local charities and food banks on how to best utilize resources for them.

Three hobbies: Traveling, learning new cultures and meeting people.

Fun fact: I’m not great at the things I love the most – for example, golf.

One word to describe you: Exuberant.

What is your wish for the Central Iowa business community? A growth plan for attracting national events to Des Moines.

Anything else you haven't addressed that people must know about you? We are not owed anything in life. Hard work and a little luck will take you anywhere, so be relentless. 

What's one piece of advice that you would give to a young professional? Never give up! There is no substitution for hard work. 

What is one issue you would like to see Central Iowa leaders address? Employment (or the lack thereof) is the No. 1 issue in my business. We need more people willing to work hard and advance their lives through a job in the service industry. Hospitality can be a great career for anyone, especially those who need a fresh start.