Noteworthy Canadians of Asian origin — Asian Heritage Month
Asian Heritage Month; Asian Canadian; Asian history; Asian Canadian history; Asian Canadian Heritage; May 4; noteworthy historic figures; notable historic figures; important Asian Canadians; Canadians of Asian heritage; Canadians of Asian descent
Canadian Heritage
Read about some notable Canadians of Asian heritage who have made a significant impact in Canadian society.
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Amy Go

Amy Go is a social activist known for her unwavering dedication to advocating for the rights of immigrants, seniors, and marginalized communities. With a background in social work, Amy has devoted over three decades to championing social justice causes and advancing the welfare of underrepresented groups.

Amy's career spans various leadership roles within national, provincial, and local service organizations. Notably, she served as the Past President of the Chinese Canadian National Council, where her leadership was instrumental in amplifying the voices of Chinese Canadians and addressing issues of social justice.

As one of the founders of the CARE Centre for Internationally Educated Nurses in Ontario, Amy demonstrated her commitment to supporting immigrant professionals in accessing opportunities and integrating into Canadian society.

Amy has been at the forefront of significant campaigns for justice and equality. She played a pivotal role in the successful campaign for redress for the head tax and the Chinese Exclusion Act, contributing to reconciliation efforts and historical acknowledgment.

Throughout her career, Amy has been recognized for her outstanding contributions to society including Canada's Birthday Achievement Award, the Woman of Distinction Award from YWCA Toronto, and the Immigrant Success Individual Award from the Toronto Regional Immigrant Employment Council, reflecting the profound impact of her advocacy and service.

Currently serving as the President of the Chinese Canadian National Council for Social Justice, Amy continues to lead efforts to promote equity, inclusion, and social change.

Carol Lee

Carol Lee, a distinguished entrepreneur and philanthropist, has dedicated her life to transforming communities and fostering economic development. Her visionary leadership has not only earned her national recognition, including being appointed as a member of the Order of Canada, but has also had a profound impact on the revitalization of Canada’s largest Chinatown in Vancouver.

Born and raised in Vancouver as a second-generation Chinese Canadian, Lee was immersed in the vibrant culture of Chinatown from a young age. After obtaining a business degree from the University of British Columbia and a master of business administration from Harvard University, Lee embarked on a successful career in business, co-founding the therapeutic skincare company Linacare Cosmetherapy in 2004 with Dr. Henry Fung.

In 2012, Lee played a pivotal role in establishing the Vancouver Chinatown Foundation, a registered charity dedicated to revitalizing the historic neighborhood. Through innovative people-focused and community-centered initiatives, the Foundation has made significant strides in preserving Chinatown’s cultural heritage while promoting economic prosperity.

Lee’s commitment to inspiring others through impactful stories led the Foundation to launch the Chinatown Storytelling Centre, the first permanent exhibit space in Canada dedicated to honouring early Chinese Canadians and their profound contribution to Canadian society.

Lee and the Foundation were the driving force behind the construction of Bob & Michael’s Place. This innovative project will be a home to not only 300 individuals and families, but also the 50,000 square foot Lily Lee Community Health Centre.

Lee’s unwavering commitment to community revitalization and social impact has earned her numerous accolades, including being named to Vancouver Magazine’s Power 50 and receiving the Business in Vancouver 2024 Influential Women in Business Lifetime Achievement Award.

Her recent appointment to the Order of Canada further solidifies her status as a role model and trailblazer for future generations. With a humble spirit and a determination to effect meaningful change, Carol Lee continues to inspire others as she continues to make a positive and enduring impact on Vancouver's cherished Chinatown and beyond.

Hannah Mariko Bell

Hannah Mariko Bell is a director, creator, and puppeteer. She is a proud fourth generation Japanese Canadian raised on Treaty 7 Territory within Blackfoot Confederacy lands (Calgary, Alberta). She is a neurodivergent artist and a member of the LGBTQIA2S+ community who identifies as pansexual. These identities, as well as her Japanese Canadian heritage, inform her artistic practice and place equity and accessibility at the centre. Through her work, Hannah seeks to engage audiences with positive representations of Japanese culture, as well as challenge them through a variety of theatrical practices.

In 2018, Hannah directed her first devised play, Kansha, as part of Intrepid Theatre’s YOU Show with support from the Victoria Nikkei Cultural Society and the National Association of Japanese Canadians Young Leader Fund. In 2019, Hannah joined Theatre SKAM as a Production Intern, and has since worked across multiple departments in production and dramaturgy. As one of SKAM's Co-Artistic Producers, Hannah is committed to helping improve representation for underrepresented communities in Victoria.

Hannah is a graduate of the University of Victoria’s theatre program and member of Union Internationale De La Marionnette (UNIMA) West, a theatre organization.

Dr. Rey Pagtakhan

Dr. Rey Pagtakhan, born in Manila, Philippines in 1935, achieved historical significance as the first Canadian of Filipino origin to serve in Parliament and Cabinet. He held several Cabinet positions under Prime Ministers Jean Chrétien and Paul Martin, leaving an indelible mark on Canadian politics. Before embarking on his political career, Dr. Pagtakhan – a Fellow of the American College of Chest Physicians and widely lectured and published in medical journals and book chapters – distinguished himself as a physician and professor, specializing in pediatric chest diseases.

Throughout his callings, Dr. Pagtakhan remained steadfast in his advocacy for public health, immigrant rights, harmonious race relations, and community development. He played a pivotal role in various organizations, serving as an advisor to the Philippine Association of Manitoba after founding it in 1970 and contributing significantly to the establishment of the Philippine Canadian Centre of Manitoba. Additionally, his tenure as a citizen member of the Winnipeg Police Commission and school trustee in the St. Vital School Division, his national presidency of the United Council of Filipino Canadian Associations and chairmanship of the Board of Presidents and vice-presidency of the Canadian Ethnocultural Council (a coalition of 37 ethnocultural national organizations) underscore his dedication to community service.

In the late 1980s, Dr. Pagtakhan emerged as a leading voice in Parliament in the call for a public investigation into the tainted blood scandal, addressing critical concerns surrounding the blood supply. His efforts culminated in the Krever Inquiry, which laid the groundwork for Canada's modern blood donation system, ensuring the safety and integrity of the nation's blood products.

Dr. Pagtakhan’s commitment to public welfare extended beyond his advocacy for healthcare. He contributed significantly to community infrastructure projects. Notably, he helped spearhead the establishment of the Seven Oaks Wellness Institute in Winnipeg and played a crucial role in securing Winnipeg as the site for the International Center for Infectious Diseases and the Canadian Museum for Human Rights. His visionary leadership helped lead to the creation of the University of Winnipeg's Global College, where he served as the founding director in 2004. Until today, he has championed the cause of Canada’s Medicare.

In recognition of his outstanding contributions, Dr. Pagtakhan has received many accolades, including the Order of Manitoba, the honorary Doctor of Laws and Doctor of Science, Queen Elizabeth II Silver, Golden and Diamond Jubilee Medals, the naming of Dr. Rey Pagtakhan Park in St. Vital, the Philippine Presidential Citation for Outstanding Filipino Individuals Overseas, and the UPMASA (University of the Philippines Medical Alumni Society in America) Lifetime Achievement Award.

His legacy continues to resonate through his insightful column, Medisina at Politika, in Pilipino Express and Canadian Filipino Net news magazines, enriching public discourse and inspiring generations to come.

Presently, he volunteers on the Board of Directors of St. Paul’s College Foundation at the University of Manitoba, the Advisory Council of Immigration Partnership Winnipeg, and the Panel of Prairie Adjudicators of the Canadian Broadcast Standards Council.

Nisha Pahuja

Nisha Pahuja is a distinguished Oscar, Emmy and Peabody nominated filmmaker renowned for her poignant documentaries that delve deep into societal issues. Born in New Delhi, India, and later relocating to Toronto, Canada during her childhood in the early 1970s, Nisha experienced the amalgamation of cultures firsthand, which would later influence her artistic endeavors.

One of Nisha’s seminal works, "The World Before Her," garnered widespread acclaim for its exploration of the intricate struggles faced by young women in India. Premiering at the Tribeca International Film Festival, the documentary earned accolades, including the prestigious Best Documentary award, setting the stage for its global recognition.

Driven by a passion for effecting social change, Nisha embarked on a mission to screen "The World Before Her" across India in the wake of the 2012 Delhi gang rape case, aiming to catalyze discussions on women's rights and combat gender-based atrocities. Through innovative crowdfunding initiatives and collaborations, Nisha spearheaded impactful screenings and discussions in underserved communities, affirming the transformative potential of documentaries in fostering dialogue and igniting change.

In 2022, Nisha unveiled her latest documentary, "To Kill a Tiger," at the Toronto International Film Festival, a poignant David and Goliath story about the lengths a family in India goes through to ensure justice for their daughter, a sexual assault survivor. The film captivated audiences and critics alike, earning the coveted Amplify Voices Award for Best Canadian Feature Film and subsequently garnering international acclaim, including a nomination for Best Documentary Feature at the Oscars in 2024 as well as a Peabody nomination.

Throughout her illustrious career, Nisha has amassed an impressive array of awards and nominations, underscoring her commitment to amplifying marginalized voices and shedding light on pressing social issues. From her Gemini Award-winning documentary series "Diamond Road" to the groundbreaking success of "The World Before Her" and the recent triumph of "To Kill a Tiger," Nisha’s body of work stands as a testament to her unwavering dedication to the craft of filmmaking and her steadfast belief in the power of storytelling to drive meaningful change on a global scale.

Aseem Pandey

Aseem Pandey is a visionary engineer and innovator who has dedicated his career to pioneering sustainable solutions in the fields of energy, materials science, and environmental conservation. Born with a passion for technological advancement and a drive to make a positive impact on the world, Aseem has continually pushed the boundaries of innovation.

Driven by an insatiable thirst for knowledge, Aseem pursued an MSc in Chemical Engineering at the University of Calgary. Aseem conducted extensive research on the Enhanced Oil Recovery potential of biodegradable nanoparticles for heavy oil recovery, showcasing his expertise in the intersection of engineering and environmental sustainability. Aseem's entrepreneurial acumen captured the attention of the Alberta Government, leading to his selection for the inaugural GreenSTEM program, where he further honed his skills.

Aseem joined EnviCore Inc. in 2020, as Chief Technology Officer and Chief Innovation Officer. He has been instrumental in developing processes to repurpose mining tailings and construction waste into supplementary cementitious materials, thereby mitigating environmental pollution and promoting circular economy principles. Aseem's pioneering work in tailings treatment technology has garnered acclaim for its effectiveness in reducing carbon emissions and its potential to revolutionize waste management practices in the mining and construction industry.

During the pandemic, Aseem donated 70 liters of EnviCore-produced hand sanitizer to Calgary Drop-In Center and Alberta Children's Hospital. He volunteers with Calgary Climate Hub, Engineers without Borders, and Madhuban Performing Arts, showcasing his dedication to community well-being, sustainability, and cultural preservation.

His groundbreaking contributions to sustainable technology and waste reduction are paving the way for a cleaner, greener future, where technological advancements are harnessed to address pressing environmental challenges. Aseem envisions a world where waste is not merely minimized but repurposed sustainably to meet the needs of future generations.

Skylar Park

Skylar Park's journey into the world of taekwondo began practically before she could even walk. The Park family legacy in taekwondo runs deep, with 16 black belts spanning multiple generations.

From the tender age of two, Skylar was introduced to the art of taekwondo. Her father, a taekwondo Master, and her grandfather, both esteemed figures in the martial arts community, nurtured her passion for the sport from the very beginning.

Skylar's talent became evident early on when she clinched gold at the 2016 World Taekwondo Junior Championships in Burnaby, British Columbia, showcasing her prowess in the 59kg weight class. Transitioning to senior competition in 2017, Skylar quickly realized the mental fortitude required to compete at the highest level. Understanding that confidence and resilience were as crucial as physical strength, she embarked on a journey marked by determination and unwavering belief in her abilities.

In 2019, Skylar secured a bronze medal at the World Taekwondo Championships (57kg) and a silver medal at the Pan American Games (57kg) in Lima. Standing on the podium in eight out of her eleven international events, Skylar's meteoric rise was undeniable.

Her Olympic debut at Tokyo 2020 saw her reach the quarterfinals in the fiercely contested 57kg event, further solidifying her status as a force to be reckoned with in the taekwondo world. Continuing her dominance, Skylar clinched her third consecutive gold medal at the Pan American Championships in 2022, along with three bronze medals at the World Taekwondo Grand Prix, including a notable achievement at the Grand Prix Final in Riyadh. In 2023, Skylar finished off the year in style, winning three major events back-to-back, the President’s Cup, the World Taekwondo Grand Prix in Taiyuan, China, and the Pan American Games.

Skylar's story epitomizes the essence of perseverance, embodying the spirit of a true champion who fearlessly chases her dreams while honoring her family's legacy in the noble art of taekwondo.

Chan Tep

Cambodian-born journalist, broadcaster, producer and researcher Chan Tep has an extraordinary destiny. Buoyed by the courage and resilience of her parents, who fled the terror of Pol Pot's Khmer Rouge regime in 1979, Chan arrived in Canada at 10 months old in the arms of Cardinal Paul-Émile Léger. This family heritage makes her a true fighter.

In 2010, after surviving a life-threatening bout of cancer, she reoriented her life and career to take action on immigration and societal issues, concerns inspired by her background as a refugee. She plunged into the world of the media, working to raise the profile of people from culturally diverse backgrounds. In 2015, she was the conceptual designer, host and content producer of Mosaïque en lumière on MAtv, a cutting-edge intercultural magazine, already showcasing diversity in front of and behind the camera.

Joining her voice to diversity in the media, Chan has held many roles in public affairs, current affairs, cultural, documentary and social issues programs. She has been seen or heard on Bell Media, Noovo Info, TVA, ICI Radio-Canada Télé and ICI Première, Tou.Tv, Télé-Québec, MAtv, 98.5FM, Moi&Cie, Canal D, RDS, Crave, FM 103.3 and the Prix Gémeaux Gala. Three projects to which she contributed were finalists at the Prix Gémeaux: docu-reality, reportage and best social-interest magazine.

Mentor and President of the Board (interim) at Diversité artistique Montréal, an organization that promotes inclusion and cultural equity for immigrant and racialized artists, Chan accompanies a number of diverse talents in their careers, in addition to hosting numerous events in the Greater Montreal and creating web projects through her company C+Créative Productions.

And finally, as stated in the Canadian Encyclopedia, she is one of Canada's most outstanding Cambodians, and the recipient of an honorary certificate from the Quebec National Assembly in recognition of her involvement with immigrant women.

Dr. Lap-Chee Tsui

Dr. Lap-Chee Tsui is renowned for his groundbreaking contributions to science and his pivotal role in unraveling the mysteries of genetic disorders, particularly cystic fibrosis (CF).

His work on the cystic fibrosis gene began when he arrived at Toronto's Hospital for Sick Children and applied new recombinant DNA technology to classical human genetic linkage studies to map the gene causing cystic fibrosis to chromosome 7. In 1989, in collaboration with Dr. John Riordan and Dr. Francis Collins, he moved from the genetic map to isolating the CF gene physically. This landmark discovery did not only exposed the molecular basis of CF but also served as a cornerstone in the growing field of genomics, laying the groundwork for the Human Genome Project.

Dr Tsui’s findings on the CF gene, heralded as one of the most significant breakthroughs in human genetics, propelled him into the forefront of genomic research, paving the way for new insights into the complexities of the human genome. His leadership in the Genome Canada initiative cemented his status as a visionary trailblazer in the field. Over the course of his illustrious career, Tsui authored over 300 scientific papers and 65 book chapters, leaving an indelible mark on the scientific community through his prolific scholarship and unwavering dedication to advancing knowledge.

In recognition of his outstanding contributions to science, Dr Tsui has been honored with numerous accolades, including 16 honorary doctoral degrees from prestigious institutions worldwide.

Moreover, his mentorship and guidance have nurtured a new generation of leaders in human genetics, ensuring that his legacy will endure for generations to come.

David Usher

David Usher is a four-time Juno award-winning musician, author, activist, and entrepreneur. He achieved international recognition as the lead singer for Moist, a multi-platinum-selling rock band. Usher is also the founder and CEO of Reimagine AI, an artificial intelligence studio based in Montréal.

Usher was born in 1966 in Oxford, United Kingdom, to Thai and Canadian parents. At a young age, his parents moved to Kingston Ontario, where he attended high school at Kingston Collegiate and Vocational Institute. Eventually David moved to Burnaby, British Columbia, where he obtained a degree in Political Science at Simon Fraser University. It is during this time when he met fellow Moist members and formed the band in 1992. Between 1992 and 2022, the Band released 5 albums, including platinum-selling records, and was among the top 50 best-selling Canadian artists in Canada and top 20 best-selling Canadian bands in Canada.

In 2015, Usher co-created the Climate Clock, a multimedia experience that tracks climate change in real time, with Concordia University Professor Dr. Damon Matthews. In 2018 he founded Reimagine AI, an artificial intelligence studio specializing in creating AI-powered virtual beings and cutting-edge virtual being technology focusing on entertainment and healthcare, in collaboration with university research labs and science centres across Canada. The firm aims to use AI to provide support to the elderly and those with memory-related conditions to improve their lives and those of their loved ones, caregivers and healthcare providers.

Usher has released highly acclaimed music in English, French and Thai. He is also the author of a best-selling book on creativity and the creative process titled Let the Elephants Run: Unlock Your Creativity and Change Everything.

Teresa Woo-Paw

Teresa Woo-Paw is a remarkable figure in Canadian politics and social advocacy, renowned for her unwavering commitment to diversity, social inclusion, and civic engagement. Born with a passion for bringing people together from all walks of life, she has dedicated her life to breaking barriers and fostering positive change in society.

Teresa's journey in public service began with her historic election to the Calgary Board of Education in 1995, where she served until 2000, becoming the first Canadian woman of Asian descent to hold such a position. Her tenure was marked by a steadfast dedication to improving educational opportunities for all students, regardless of background.

Building upon her success in education, Teresa ventured into provincial politics, securing a seat in the Alberta Legislature in 2008 and becoming the first Asian Canadian woman elected to the Alberta legislature. Her election as a Cabinet Minister further solidified her reputation as a trailblazer, not only within the Asian Canadian community but also across the nation. During her time in office, Teresa championed numerous initiatives aimed at protecting human rights and advancing the rights and well-being of marginalized groups, earning widespread respect for her tireless advocacy. Beyond her political career, Teresa's impact extends far into the realm of community service and activism. She founded and nurtured eight non-profit organizations over four decades, including: the ACCT Foundation, Asian Heritage Foundation, Ethnocultural Council of Calgary (now known as Action Dignity), and DiverseCities [formerly the Calgary Chinese Community Service Association]. Through these platforms, Teresa has worked tirelessly to amplify the voices of underrepresented communities and address issues of racism and inequality.

Teresa's dedication to fostering dialogue and collaboration is further evidenced by her extensive involvement in various boards and committees. She currently serves as Chair of the Canadian Race Relations Foundation, Chair of ACCT Foundation, Founder and convenor of Asian Canadians Together-ACT2EndRacism Network and Co-Chair of the Asian Heritage Foundation, among other roles. Through initiatives like the Inspire to Lead Leaders' Summit and the Aspire to Act Leadership Training Program, she continues to empower individuals to drive positive change in their communities.

Teresa's outstanding contributions to Canadian society have been recognized with numerous awards, including the Chinese Canadian Legend Award in 2016, the YWCA Women of Distinction Award in 1998, and the Queen Elizabeth's Platinum Jubilee Award in 2023, among others.

Monica Wu

Monica Wu's unwavering dedication to social justice and cross-cultural understanding spans decades and encompasses multiple Canadian cities. Her steadfast commitment to these causes has left an indelible mark on Canada's landscape of multiculturalism and social cohesion.

Born with a passion for dance and the arts, Monica embarked on her journey of volunteerism at a young age. Arriving in Montreal from Brazil as a teenager, she wasted no time in utilizing her skills to promote Chinese culture by teaching folk dance to Chinese children. This marked the beginning of a lifelong journey of community engagement and leadership. A few years later, the Guelph Chinese Canadian Club asked her to choreograph and teach Chinese folkdance to a girl’s group. Then, in 1977, the group made history as for the first time ever, the citizens of Guelph saw authentic Chinese folkdance during their city’s Multicultural Day celebrations.

Her leadership continued to shine as she moved to Charlottetown, where she served as president of the Chinese Canadian Association of Prince Edward Island. Under her guidance, the association achieved significant milestones, including the establishment of the first Chinese Folkdance Group of Charlottetown and winning prestigious awards for their presentations.

Recognizing the power of dance as a tool for breaking stereotypes and racial barriers, Monica extended her outreach by teaching Chinese folk dances to non-Asian dancers. Her inclusive approach garnered widespread acclaim, with her students performing at various high-profile events.

A staunch advocate for social justice, Monica lent her voice to the Chinese Canadian National Council, tirelessly campaigning for an apology and compensation for Chinese head-tax payers. Her efforts resulted in widespread support from political leaders, reflecting her unwavering commitment to equality and justice.

Upon relocating to Ottawa, Monica Wu continued her tireless advocacy for cross-cultural learning and understanding. She played a pivotal role in establishing Ottawa's Asian Heritage Month, fostering inclusivity and celebrating the rich diversity of pan-Asian cultures thru science, sport, film and art. Her leadership was instrumental in organizing and coordinating hundreds of events over the years, promoting dialogue, understanding, and appreciation among diverse communities.

In recognition of her exceptional contributions, Monica Wu has been honored with prestigious awards, including the Community Builder Award from United Way, the Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal, the Canada 150/Ottawa-West-Nepean Community Leadership Award, the Ottawa Distinguished Women/Community Pillars Award and the Community Leader Award from MP Chandra Arya

Monica Wu obtained a bachelor’s degree in Fine Arts (Graphic Design) from Concordia University. At age 45, she received a bachelor’s degree in Arts (Sociology/ Anthropology) from Carleton University.

Chow Quen Lee (1911–2017)

Chow Quen Lee was born in China on October 18, 1911.

Nicknamed “Nooey Quen” (meaning “women’s rights” in English), she was one of 3 immigrant litigants who led a class-action lawsuit against Ottawa over its discriminatory Chinese head tax. She continued this fight for justice until her passing in 2017 at the age of 105.

Chow Quen was known to be a determined, committed, and stubborn person who had a strong sense of justice, as well as a loving mother and grandmother. Her toughness helped her overcome war, poverty, a 14-year separation from her husband, and the drawn-out legal battle for government redress.

A native of Taishan, Chow Quen married Guang Foo Lee in 1930, when he returned to China from Canada to find a wife. He was born in 1892, also in Taishan, and paid a $500 head tax in 1913 to come to Canada.

Chow Quen would travel in her wheelchair to fundraising events and rallies between Toronto and Ottawa to raise public awareness about Canada’s racist past against people of Chinese origin.

Although the lawsuit was ultimately dismissed and subsequent appeals were denied, the efforts of Chow Quen and others set into motion talks with the government that ended in an official apology in the House of Commons on June 22, 2006.

Chow Quen was in the audience when then prime minister Stephen Harper apologized in Cantonese to Chinese Canadian communities.

Kew Dock Yip (1906–2001)

The first lawyer of Chinese origin in Canada, Kew Dock Yip (also known as Dock Yip) was born into a large family in Vancouver in 1906. He graduated from the University of Michigan in 1931 with a degree in Pharmacy, intending to practice in British Columbia. However, due to the restrictions against the Chinese at the time, he was unable to enter the field. He attended the University of British Columbia and obtained a Bachelor of Arts degree in 1941, to pursue studies in Law. Because the Law Society of B.C. enforced a rule "that Orientals should not be granted the privilege of enrolment as students-at-law", he enrolled in Osgoode Hall Law School, which he graduated from in 1945. He opened his own law office in Toronto’s first Chinatown, where he would serve his clients for 47 years. Dock Yip provided much needed legal advice to members of Toronto’s Chinese community, was a mentor to many younger Chinese-Canadian lawyers, and was a community leader.

In 1942, Dock Yip, along with some of his Osgoode Hall Law school classmates enlisted as army reservists with The Queen’s Own Rifles of Canada. He befriended fellow reservist, Irving Himel, a Jewish lawyer. In September 1945, just after he was called to the bar, Yip and Himel collaborated with various activists and organizations to form a committee to repeal the Chinese Immigration Act, also known as the Chinese Exclusion Act. It had prohibited Chinese immigration to Canada since it was passed in 1923. The committee successfully lobbied for the repeal of this Act in 1947. Having this big achievement under his belt did not slow Dock Yip’s tenacity; he lobbied the government until 1966 to lower entrance barriers for immigrants of Chinese origin.

During the 1970s, he served two terms as a school trustee on Toronto’s Board of Education. At the age of 79, Kew Dock Yip ventured into the world of showbusiness and acted in the movies Year of the Dragon, Diamonds (1987) and Fearless Tiger (1991).

Finally, in 1992, he retired from his law practice at the age of 85. In 1998, he was awarded the Law Society Medal from the Law Society of Upper Canada for outstanding service to the legal profession.

Tareq Hadhad

Tareq Hadhad is a Syrian Canadian entrepreneur, philanthropist, and social activist, known for his work in the field of refugee resettlement and for founding Peace by Chocolate, a successful chocolate company based in Antigonish, Nova Scotia.

Tareq was born on October 19, 1988, in Damascus, Syria, into a family with a long tradition of chocolate making. In 2012, Tareq’s life took an unexpected turn when his family’s chocolate factory was destroyed during the Syrian civil war, forcing them to flee to Lebanon, where they lived in a refugee camp for 3 years. While in Lebanon, Tareq provided medical services to those in need, as he had studied medicine and had 2 years left to study to become a doctor before he was forced to leave his country.

In 2015, Tareq and his family were granted refugee status and resettled in the small town of Antigonish, Nova Scotia. With the determination to rebuild their lives and pursue their passion for chocolate making, Tareq and his family founded Peace by Chocolate in 2016, with the goal of not only creating delicious chocolates, but also spreading a message of peace, inclusion, and resilience.

A major milestone in Tareq’s life was obtaining Canadian citizenship in January 2020. Author Jon Tattrie wrote a book on the Hadhads’ story that became a best-seller. A feature film based on the family’s story, Peace by Chocolate, premiered at the Tribeca Film Festival in 2022 and was subsequently shown in Cineplex theatres across Canada.

He was named one of the Top 25 Immigrants in the Maritimes, was selected by Google as the National Hero Case, and was awarded RBC’s Top 25 Canadian Immigrant Awards in 2020, in addition to receiving Queen Elizabeth II’s Platinum Jubilee Medal.

Nazem Kadri

Nazem Kadri is a Canadian professional ice hockey player for the Calgary Flames of the National Hockey League. Nazem was born in London, Ontario, on October 6, 1990, the second of 5 children. Nazem began ice skating at the age of 2, joined his first hockey team when he was 4 years old, and was playing at the elite level within the next 2 years. He played his junior career in the Ontario Hockey League (OHL), first with the Kitchener Rangers, where he was awarded the J. Ross Robertson Cup, and then with the London Knights. Nazem represented Canada internationally at the 2010 World Junior Championships, where the team received the silver medal after losing the final to the United States. Nazem went on to win the Stanley Cup with the Colorado Avalanche in 2022, becoming the first Muslim player to hoist the Cup. As part of his celebrations, Nazem travelled to his hometown of London and visited the London Muslim Mosque, marking the first time the Stanley Cup has visited a mosque.

Domee Shi

Domee Shi is an Academy Award-winning director, writer, and storyboard artist for Pixar.

Domee was born in Chongqing, China on September 8, 1989, and immigrated to Canada with her parents at the age of 2. After spending 6 months in Newfoundland, she and her family settled in Toronto, where she grew up.

Domee wrote and directed the animated short film Bao for Pixar in 2018, which garnered her first Academy Award for Best Animated Short Film at the 91st Academy Awards. The film also earned nominations at the 43rd Annie Awards, the International Online Cinema Awards, and the Tribeca Film Festival. She directed and wrote the 2022 feature film Turning Red based on her experiences growing up as a Canadian of Chinese origin in Toronto, becoming the first woman with sole director’s credit on a feature film for Pixar.

Domee started her career at Pixar as an intern and has worked as a storyboard artist on notable films such as Inside Out (2015), The Good Dinosaur (2015), Incredibles 2 (2018) and Toy Story 4 (2019). She was recently named Vice President of Creative at the company.

Vivek Shraya

Vivek Shraya is a transgender artist of colour whose body of work crosses the boundaries of music, literature, visual art, theatre, TV, and film. She is a Canadian Screen Award winner and a Polaris Music Prize nominee, and her best-selling book I’m Afraid of Men was heralded by Vanity Fair as “cultural rocket fuel.” She is also the founder of the award-winning publishing imprint VS. Books, which supports emerging Indigenous, Black and racialized writers.

Vivek has been a brand ambassador for MAC Cosmetics and Pantene. She is a director on the board of the Tegan and Sara Foundation, which fights for economic justice, health, and representation for 2SLGBTQI+ girls and women, and is currently adapting her debut play, How to Fail as a Popstar, as a digital series with CBC.

Vicky Sunohara

Vicky Sunohara is a women’s ice hockey legend, a two-time Olympic gold medalist and a seven-time world champion. She was born in Scarborough, Ontario, on May 18, 1970. She is of Japanese and Ukrainian heritage.

Vicky won an Olympic silver medal at the 1998 Winter Olympics in Nagano, Japan. She continued with an Olympic gold medal at the 2002 Winter Olympics in Salt Lake City, Utah, and another gold medal at the 2006 Winter Olympics in Turin, Italy.

Besides the Olympics, Vicky represented Canada in numerous international ice hockey competitions. A member of the women’s national program from 1989 until her retirement in 2008, Vicky appeared in 8 IIHF World Championships as Canada won gold 7 times (1990, 1997, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2004, and 2007) and silver once (2005). In those 8 world championships, Vicky played in 40 games and totalled 41 points.

Vicky played collegiate hockey for Northeastern University from 1988 to 1990 and for the University of Toronto from 1990 to 1992. She went on to play for the Brampton Thunder of the NWHL/CWHL from 2005 to 2008, winning the league championship in 2007 and 2008.

After retiring from playing, Vicky pursued a coaching career, utilizing her wealth of experience and knowledge of the game to mentor young players. She has been involved in coaching at various levels, including serving as an assistant coach with Canada’s National Women’s Under-18 Team at the IIHF U18 Women’s World Championship in Wisconsin.

Throughout her career, Vicky has been recognized for her contributions to the sport of ice hockey. She was inducted into the Canadian Olympic Hall of Fame in 2012 with her teammates from the Turin 2006 Olympic hockey team. She continues to be a respected figure in the world of women’s ice hockey, inspiring future generations of players with her talent, passion, and dedication to the sport.

The Honourable Steve A. Coroza

Justice Steve A. Coroza was appointed to the Ontario Court of Appeal in April 2020. His position is the highest attained by a Canadian of Filipino Heritage in the Canadian judiciary system so far.

In 1995, he received his LL.B. from the University of Windsor Law School. Two years later, he was called to the Bar in Ontario and in 2003, Justice Coroza received his LL.M. from University of Windsor, Osgoode Hall Law School.

From 1997 to 1998, he was a staff duty counsel for Ontario Legal Aid in Toronto. From 1998 to 2009, he was senior counsel with the Department of Justice and the Public Prosecution Service of Canada, where his main area of practice was criminal law. Justice Steve Cardoza formerly served as a judge of the Ontario Court of Justice in St. Catharines from 2009 to 2013 and the Superior Court of Justice in Brampton from 2013 to 2020.

He was a member of the Federation of Asian Canadian Lawyers and a frequent panelist for continuing education programs for lawyers and judges. He was also a former adjunct instructor for the Trial Advocacy Course at Osgoode Hall Law School and guest instructor at Notre Dame Law School.

Jim Chu

Jim Chu was born in 1959 in Shanghai, China; he is a Canadian of Chinese heritage.

He received a Bachelor of Business Administration degree from Simon Fraser University, and an MBA from the University of British Columbia while also completing police training. Chu has held a number of different positions in the police force, including Sergeant, Inspector, and Deputy Chief. In May 2007, the Governor General of Canada awarded Chu the Order of Merit of the Police Forces, and in 2015, he was promoted to the rank of Commander within the Order of Merit of the Police Forces for service beyond the call of duty. On June 21, 2007, Chu was named as Chief Constable of the Vancouver Police Department, and for the next eight years, he headed up initiatives to reduce crime, improve relations with marginalized people in downtown Vancouver, and advocate for the mentally ill. In May 2015, Chu was recognized for his decades of service, becoming the first municipal police officer in British Columbia to be issued a provincial commission.

The Order of Merit of the Police Forces recognizes senior members of police departments for their rank, professionalism, and dedication to policing, and takes after the military tradition of officer commissions.

The Honourable Harbance Singh (Herb) Dhaliwal

Harbance Singh (Herb) Dhaliwal, was born in Punjab, India, in 1952; he is a Canadian of Indian heritage. He grew up in Vancouver, and graduated from the University of British Columbia, where he was active in student politics. In 1993, he was elected to the House of Commons, as the Member of Parliament for Vancouver South. Prime Minister Jean Chrétien recommended Dhaliwal’s appointment to Cabinet, where he served as the first Indian Canadian to become a federal cabinet minister (in 1997 as Minister of Revenue). In 1999, he became Minister of Fisheries and Oceans, and in 2002 he was appointed Minister of Natural Resources and Minister with political responsibility for British Columbia. To mark Canada’s 150th birthday in 2007, Dhaliwal was profiled as one of 150 noteworthy British Columbians by the Vancouver Sun on June 14, 2017.

Sudarshan Gautam

Sudarshan Gautam was born in the Ramechhap district in Nepal in 1978, and is a Canadian of Nepalese heritage. He is the first individual without arms to climb Mount Everest without the use of prosthetics, having accomplished this feat on May 20, 2013. Gautam had to have both of his arms amputated as a result of a childhood accident. He was determined to be successful despite his physical disability, by getting his name into the Guinness Book of World Records. Gautum immigrated to Canada in 2007, intent on showing off his athletic abilities. Prior to conquering Mount Everest (8,848 metres), he reached the peaks of Mount Ramdung (5,925 metres) and Mount Yala (5,732 metres). In June 2013, NRN Canada honoured Gautam as an outstanding Nepali Diaspora member. In 2014, he was inducted into the Canadian Disability Hall of Fame. In May 2017, he received the South Asian Canadian Trailblazers Award.

Hiromi Goto

Hiromi Goto was born on December 21, 1966, in Chiba, Japan, and is a Canadian of Japanese heritage. Hiromi is a writer, editor and instructor of creative writing. Her work is influenced by her father’s stories of life in Japan and the Japanese stories her grandmother told her when she was growing up. Her writing commonly explores race, gender and cultural experiences.

Her first novel, Chorus of Mushrooms, is about finding one’s identity in the face of alienation. She was the 1995 recipient of the Commonwealth Writers’ Prize for Best First Book in Canada and the Caribbean Region, and the co-winner of the Canada-Japan Book Award. In 2001, she was awarded the James Tiptree, Jr., Award and was short-listed for the regional Commonwealth Writers’ Prize, Best Book Award, the Sunburst Award and the Spectrum Award.

Goto has been the writer-in-residence for numerous institutions, including Athabasca University, the University of Alberta, Simon Fraser University, the Vancouver Public Library and Vancouver’s Emily Carr University of Art and Design.

Shadow Life, Hiromi Goto’s first graphic novel, was released on March 30, 2021, and became #3 on the Vancouver Sun’s International Bestseller list.

Rupi Kaur

Rupi Kaur was born on October 4, 1992, in Hoshiarpur, India. She is a Canadian of Indian heritage who immigrated to Canada with her family at the age of four. Rupi is a best-selling Canadian poet, illustrator, and author. The first time she performed her work was in 2009 at the Punjabi Community Health Centre in Malton, Mississauga. She studied professional writing and rhetoric at the University of Waterloo. All of Rupi Kaur’s (rupi kaur’s) work is written exclusively in lower case. Her first book, entitled milk and honey, was published in 2014. Her second book, the sun and her flowers, was published in October 2017. Kaur has performed her poetry all over the world, and her poems have been translated into more than 40 languages.

Hazel Mae

Hazel Mae was born on April 7, 1990, in Tagbilaran City, Philippines; she is a Canadian of Filipino heritage. She is well-known as a sportscaster on a number of different sports networks.

She began her career in 2001 on Rogers Sportsnet, where she hosted various shows, including Sportsnetnews and JZone. Later on, she became the lead anchor for the New England Sports Network’s SportsDesk, The Ultimate Red Sox Show, and The Buzz, from 2004 to 2008. In August 2009, she was a reporter on the Major Baseball League Network, appearing on the shows Hot Stove, MLB Tonight, 30 Clubs in 30 Days, and Quick Pitch. In 2011, she became the host for a new program, The Rundown, alongside Matt Yaloff. Since September 2011, Mae has been back as a reporter with Sportsnet.