Michael Fong is a seasoned real estate professional and business advocate, currently serving as a 2025 AREAA National Presidential Appointee and a member of the Government Affairs Committee at the Long Island Board of Realtors. As the Immediate Past President of the AREAA Brooklyn Chapter, Michael has been instrumental in promoting homeownership and economic empowerment for the Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander (AANHPI) community. With over a decade of experience in New York City government, Michael has established himself as an expert in business growth, compliance, and policy navigation. During his tenure at the Department of Small Business Services (SBS), he spearheaded initiatives such as the Asian American Small Business Task Force and the NYC BEST (Business Express Service Team) program, which collectively helped businesses save over $20 million in fines and penalties. His leadership in small business advocacy also led to the inaugural AANHPI Businesswomen meeting with City Hall, amplifying the voices of underrepresented entrepreneurs. Michael's passion for real estate and economic development is deeply rooted in his upbringing in an immigrant family of entrepreneurs, giving him a firsthand understanding of the challenges faced by small business owners and real estate investors. A New York State Licensed Real Estate Associate Broker and a New Jersey Licensed Real Estate Salesperson, he specializes in residential, condominium, and commercial properties across Brooklyn, Queens, Long Island, and Bergen County, NJ. In addition to his real estate expertise, Michael is a member of the Long Island Board of Realtors Government Affairs Committee, where he actively engages in policy discussions and advocacy efforts to support the real estate industry and property owners. Beyond his professional roles, Michael is an active mentor and civic leader, currently part of the Coro Leadership New York (LNY 41) cohort, where he continues to refine his leadership skills and expand his multi-sector network to drive meaningful change. His work reflects a commitment to advocacy, mentorship, and strategic growth, ensuring that communities and businesses have the tools and opportunities to succeed in an evolving market.