Michael Cherwayia Thao is a businessman, a community leader, and political activist. Thao came to the United States in 1978 and has made Minnesota his home for the past 43 years. He serves as the President/CEO of Generational Financial Group, Inc. (GFG). GFG is an independent marketing company that offers financial products and services. Thao led a campaign fundraising team that raised funds from the community, local businesses and organizations, and the State of Minnesota to build a monument at the Minnesota State Capital honoring the service of the Lao-Hmong during the U.S. Secret War. Thao is the son of the late Captain Tong Xao Thao, who served in the Royal Lao Army under the leadership of Colonel Neng Chue Thao.