About the Founder
A Vision Rooted in Heritage, Nature, and Legacy
I am deeply grateful to share the beginning of Garden of Living Legacy — a vision inspired by my love for nature, my travels, and most importantly, the memory of my grandmother and the many elders who came before us.
Growing up, I watched my grandmother and elders care for their gardens with pride and dedication. For them, gardening was not simply for beauty — it was a way of life. It provided nourishment, survival, and a deep connection to the land in Laos and their home countries. Even after coming to the United States, they continued to grow what they could, carrying that tradition forward with resilience and love.
As a child, I didn’t fully understand the meaning behind their commitment. But now, as a mother with my own family, I see it differently. I understand the discipline, the pride, and the deep sense of purpose that comes from nurturing something from the ground up.
Over the past few years, I’ve created my own small garden, and through that experience, I’ve felt the same sense of calm, peace, and fulfillment. Gardening requires effort and patience, but there is something incredibly powerful about watching a seed grow into something alive — something you’ve cared for and nurtured.
That experience became the foundation of this vision.
THE VISION
Garden of Living Legacy is being created as a place where people can experience that same sense of peace, connection, and cultural appreciation — a space that reflects the beauty of a Hmong village while honoring the legacy of our elders and creating something meaningful for future generations.
With gratitude,
Dr. Mai Lee
Founder, Garden of Living Legacy
Dr. Mai Lee
Meet the founding Team
A Shared Vision, A Collective Effort
Garden of Living Legacy is being brought to life through the collaboration of individuals who share a deep appreciation for culture, community, and the healing power of nature.
Co-Founder & Director of Digital Experience
Xee plays a key role in shaping the digital presence and visibility of Garden of Living Legacy. She leads the development of the website and manages the project’s social media platforms, helping share the vision and connect with the community.
In addition to her digital leadership, Xee provides the land that serves as the foundation for the garden’s development. Her contribution is central to bringing the vision of Garden of Living Legacy to life.
Through her involvement, she helps ensure the project is both grounded in purpose and thoughtfully presented to those who wish to experience and support its growth.
Xee Vang
Co-Founder & Director of Garden & Cultural Experience
PaHoua brings valuable knowledge and hands-on experience in farming and plant cultivation, playing a key role in shaping the garden’s natural environment and overall landscape.
She contributes to the planning and development of the garden’s plant life, ensuring that the space reflects both beauty and sustainability while honoring traditional practices rooted in culture and land.
In addition to her expertise in growing and cultivating, PaHoua leads the creative vision for how the garden will be experienced once completed — helping design an environment where visitors can connect with nature, culture, and a sense of peace and reflection.
Her role is essential in bringing the living, breathing experience of Garden of Living Legacy to life.
PaHoua Vang
Be Part of the Journey
We are currently in the development phase and welcome those who feel aligned with this vision to be part of its creation.