We had the good fortune of connecting with Michael Passage and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Michael, what makes you happy? Why?
To connect and reconnect my Indo community with the Indonesian community not only in SoCal but beyond throughout my non profit SoCal Indo BUT most importantly is to help those in need in Indonesia but also here in SoCal.

Three people smiling outdoors, one wearing a traditional headdress, with tents and trees in the background.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
**SoCal Indo** is a nonprofit dedicated to reconnecting and strengthening the Indo community in Southern California and beyond\. Through cultural events, heritage initiatives, community gatherings, and charitable efforts, we create opportunities for people to celebrate their shared history, rediscover their roots, and build meaningful connections\.

By bringing together multiple generations of Indos and fostering relationships with the broader Indonesian community, SoCal Indo helps preserve our heritage while building a stronger, more connected future\.

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Child with mouth open, splashing water outdoors with trees and sky visible in background.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I would take them on an Indonesian culinary road trip across Southern California\. Many people are surprised by how vibrant the Indonesian community is here\.

We would travel from Los Angeles to Orange County, the Inland Empire, and San Diego, visiting Indonesian restaurants, markets, cultural events, and community gatherings\. Each stop would reveal another part of Indonesia’s rich culinary and cultural story\.

I’d introduce them to the families, chefs, artists, and community leaders who keep Indonesian traditions alive while building new lives in America\.

By the end of the week, I’d want them to experience more than just the food—I’d want them to understand the warmth, diversity, and spirit of Indonesia without ever leaving Southern California\.

Four people smiling in front of a backdrop with 'SO CAL INDO' logos.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
What truly makes me happy is bringing people together. Through my nonprofit, SoCal Indo, my mission is to reconnect the Indo community with the Indonesian community—not only throughout Southern California, but wherever our paths may cross. Many people have lost touch with their heritage, and seeing them rediscover their roots, build friendships, and feel a sense of belonging is incredibly rewarding.

At the same time, I believe community means giving back. Whether it’s supporting charitable projects in Indonesia or helping people here in Southern California, making a positive difference in someone’s life gives me the greatest sense of purpose.

Website: https://www.socalindo.org

Instagram: @socalindo

Facebook: Socalindo

Youtube: Socalindo

Three men standing outdoors in front of a red and white striped tent, smiling, with trees in the background.

Person standing on a beach with palm trees, looking into the distance, shadows cast on sand, clear sky.

Two men smiling outdoors, one with dark hair and the other bald, both wearing light blue shirts.

Image Credits
My selfie stick

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