ABOUT AWARD RECIPIENTS
Richmond Centre
Outstanding Constituent Award 2022-2023
The Richmond Centre Outstanding Constituent Award 2022-2023 recognized individuals whose efforts significantly enriched the fabric of our local community. This year's recipients demonstrated exemplary leadership, compassion, and a strong will to improve the lives of those around them. Their contributions spanned various spheres, from education and healthcare to senior advocacy. Through their remarkable initiatives and selfless acts, these recipients served our Richmond Centre community and beyond.
Mahmood Awan
Mahmood Awan’s Community Involvement I joined the Liberal party in 1970 and have continued my involvement in the party since then. I have attended Liberal Party conventions across the country and taken an active interest in the party and its policies. I have been a strong supporter of the party doing my part to encourage and facilitate election processes, voter registration and voting assistance.
In the past, I have been a board member for the Richmond Centre Riding, as well as President for the Richmond Centre Riding Association. Personally, I ran for the Federal Liberal Party’s Multicultural Chair position and represented Canada in the Bangladesh Presidential Election of 1996.
Since I first moved to Canada in the early seventies, I have spent my years working, volunteering and helping in the community. I have been a board member on many committees, actively engaging with community members and liaising with political and government figures building and fostering relationships over the years.
My resume indicates a long list of political and community involvement, and the relationships I have built, as well as the partnerships I have made, are indicative of my past and current passion for giving back to the community what it has given me over the years
Yechiel and Chanie Baitelman
Rabbi Yechiel and Chanie Baitelman began serving the Richmond Jewish community soon after arriving here from their home town of Brooklyn New York. They came to Richmond to serve the growing needs of the Jewish Community and beyond. As the spiritual leaders of Chabad of Richmond they have greatly improved and enriched the lives of literally thousands of people through educational, recreational and social programs. The Rabbi and Chanie and their beautiful family enrich us all.
Their mission has been to create, grow and connect the rich values and ethics of the Torah and Judaism for the Jewish community and beyond. Together they created the Light of Shabbat Meal program that weekly feeds both Jewish and non-Jewish households. 150 meals are delivered weekly by an army of dedicated volunteers.
Among the many programs they have created is a safe, warm spiritual and emotional centre where all are welcome to attend the vibrant and growing adult education classes, courses and lectures, a nurturing Hebrew school, seniors programming, young professionals programming, and growing teen programs.
They ensure that all who want to participate in Jewish life and celebration can join in and that all who need a lift, are fed and nourished emotionally and spiritually. They live and breathe community 24/7. Both sit on a variety of community boards. The Rabbi has served as a chaplain for the Correctional Services Canada prison system and is the chaplain to the local RCMP detachment here in Richmond.
Malcolm Brodie
Malcolm Brodie has been a resident and volunteer in Richmond since 1977 when he got married and bought his first home here. Richmond was where he picked strawberries in the summers during university and spent time with friends. Upon arrival here, he got involved with volunteer work – Canadian Cancer Society Chair, Summer Games of 1979, fundraising for Richmond Caring Place, Gateway Theatre Chair, Richmond Sunrise Rotary Club, City Councillor, and many more. While Mayor, he has been involved with Metro Vancouver, Translink, Municipal Finance Authority and UBCM amongst others – always in leadership roles. He is a volunteer at heart, always giving his best to every Richmond charitable organization – never just to add to his resume. His reason for any work is to give to and support others – especially those in need in his community.
Malcolm’s resume is long and can be found anywhere on Google, but the main reason for any role he takes on is to give Richmond the accolades it deserves – not to take credit for it. When he came to Richmond, there were around 80,000 residents and has grown to 230,000 today. It is so important to Malcolm that every resident and business feels a part of the entire community and welcomed as a family and/or business. He has attended so many functions of new businesses and charitable organizations – both large and small. He has a dedication to ALL in Richmond to promote his community and find a way to welcome everyone.
Malcolm and his wife, Christine, have volunteered together and in separate community organizations throughout his career in Richmond. Being at community functions is so much a part of Malcolm’s career, and one he cherishes because he is able to connect with people from all walks of life in his own city. He has been in public service in every segment of the Richmond community since he chose to make Richmond his home more than 46 years ago – as a volunteer, leader, supporter, community member, lawyer and most of all, family man.
Chris Choi
Chris Choi is a respected member of the Richmond community, known for his dedication to traditional Chinese kung fu and his commitment to sharing his knowledge with others. Since beginning his training at CLF kung fu club in 1997, Chris has been actively involved in the community, volunteering his time to assist in teaching kids and adults as well as performing throughout the Lower Mainland.
One of Chris’s most notable contributions has been his role in promoting cultural arts in Richmond. He has performed countless lion dance performances and kung fu demonstrations, bringing the beauty and richness of Chinese culture to audiences throughout the community. His passion for these art forms has inspired many others to learn and appreciate them as well.
Chris has also been an active competitor, participating in tournaments and competitions both locally and nationally. Through his involvement in these events, he has helped to raise the profile of kung fu and lion dance in the Richmond and Canada, and has demonstrated the high level of skill and dedication required to excel in these disciplines.
Overall, Chris Choi’s contributions to the Richmond community have been significant and far-reaching. His dedication to traditional Chinese kung fu and his willingness to share his knowledge and skills with others have helped to enrich the lives of many in the community, and his efforts to promote cultural arts have helped to foster greater understanding and appreciation of Chinese culture in Richmond.
Michael Chiu
Michael is a great community leader in Richmond for many years. He has been living in Richmond Centre for over 40 years. Michael served in many different roles for our community, such as:
2009 – 2014 Director of Tourism Richmond,
2007 – 2014 Director of Richmond Community Foundation,
1984 – 1988 Vice President / Director of Richmond Chinese School,
1989 – present Founding member of Richmond Chinese Community Society,
1991 – 2012 Past Chair and Director of Stratchona Employment Services,
1998 – present Chartered member and past President Rotary Club of Richmond Sunset,
1992 – 1998 Past President of Richmond Kigoos Swim Club,
1984 – 1994 Director & Scout Leader of Richmond 28t Boy Scouts,
2015 – 2017 Translink SWATP Public Committee Advisory,
2015 – 2021 Director of Steveston Historical Society,
2007 – 2014 Director / President Volunteer of Richmond Information Services ( RCRG)
1978 – 1984 Team Manager/ Sponsor Orient Soccer Club.
Michael also served as co-chair of Richmond Christmas fund for many years where our community has been benefiting from and lots of people in need got helped. Michael is one of the excellent role models in Richmond Centre community.
Queenie Choo
Once a new immigrant to Canada, Richmond Centre resident Queenie Choo has spent 10+ years leading one of Canada’s largest social service organizations. As CEO of S.U.C.C.E.S.S., Choo leads innovative programming in the areas of newcomer settlement, language training, employment, entrepreneurship, family, youth and seniors programs, community development, affordable housing and seniors care, and has spearheaded the agency’s growth.
Choo is a trained nurse who completed her Master of Nursing degree at the University of Alberta and then served as Alberta Health Services leader. She joined S.U.C.C.E.S.S. in 2012 and is overseeing S.U.C.C.E.S.S.’ 50th Golden Anniversary in 2023, celebrating the agency’s development from a volunteer group formed in Vancouver’s Chinatown in 1973 to a multicultural non-profit that serves 73,000+ people a year across 40+ service centres.
Over the years, S.U.C.C.E.S.S.’ contributions to Richmond have been extensive, across six service centres and two affordable housing sites. Under Choo’s direction, the agency opened Storeys, offering nearly 130 units of affordable housing on Anderson Road in 2017. This is in addition to 80+ units provided at our Remy site on Cambie Road since 2014. Future investments in affordable housing include developments at Lansdowne Centre and Capstan Village.
Richmond residents enjoy access to a variety of immigration and employment services via S.U.C.C.E.S.S., which delivers WorkBC programs out of the Storeys office, plus settlement services at Richmond Caring Place. We operate two major language training centres on Alexandra Road and our Community Airport Newcomers Network (CANN) program at Vancouver International Airport has supported more than 1 million newcomers since it launched in 1992.
Serving seniors is another S.U.C.C.E.S.S. priority and we’ve invested heavily in Richmond seniors’ health and wellness. We offer culturally appropriate residential assisted living at our Austin Harris Residence on Moncton Street, and we’ve run the Jackson Lam Adult Day Centre on site since 2017. In 2022, we launched our Integrated Community Services for Seniors project, a bilingual resource and referral program to connect seniors with the local services they need to live better independently. We have also offered a Chinese Meals on Wheels initiative, which feeds local residents in need, and our S.U.C.C.E.S.S. Help Lines offer Chinese and Mandarin-speaking residents mental health support and referrals.
Choo is also an active volunteer in the local community, serving as an advisor on the City of Richmond’s Seniors Advisory Council and the S.U.C.C.E.S.S. Seniors Council. In addition, she sits on the Canadian Armed Forces’ Joint Task Force Pacific Advisory Council on Diversity, the RCMP Commanding Officer’s Cultural Diversity and Inclusion Board, the Honorary Govenor’s Council of the Vancouver Foundation, the OMNI TV Pacific Advisory Council, the Invest Vancouver Board, the provincial Minister’s Advisory Forum on Poverty Reduction and the Premier’s Chinese-Canadian Community Advisory Committee.
Queenie Choo is a longstanding Richmond Centre resident who has worked for over a decade to bring improved supports and services to the region through her leadership of S.U.C.C.E.S.S., her community volunteering and her collaborations with local organizations and leaders for the betterment of Richmond.
Stuart Corrigal
My name is Stuart Corrigal and I have lived in Richmond since 1954. I am a member of the Metis Nation of British Columbia.
I am retired but was employed by the City of Richmond as an Emergency First Responder (Firefighter, Fire Officer, Battalion & Deputy Chief Officer) for 39 years. Through my employment, I have interacted within the community on a large variety of ‘safety” matters. Additionally, as part of my job, I was seconded to the Winter Olympics to establish the Richmond Olympics Emergency Operations Centre.
I also have a long history of being involved as an athlete, participant, coach, trainer, organizer and administrator in the local sports community. A number of those organizations include: Richmond Swim Club, Richmond Minor Baseball, Richmond Boxing Club, Richmond Minor & High School Football, Richmond Ringette, Richmond Girls Ice Hockey, Richmond Kyokushin Karate Club.
Currently, I am the Chair of the following community groups: Richmond Sports Council, City of Richmond Wall of Fame nomination Committee, Richmond Sports Council “Discover Your Sport”.
I sit as a committee member on the following community Committees: Minoru Centre for Active Living Program Committee, Richmond Sports Hosting Committee, Richmond Sports Council/City of Richmond Facilities Assessment Committee, VIA Sport – BC Provincial Safe Sport Advisory Committee, International Karate Organization Tournament Committee Member. I am also the Head Instructor of the Richmond Kyokushin Karate Club, since 1972.
In the past, I was a Board member (2009 & 2020) for the Richmond BC Seniors Games (now BC 55+ Games). All affiliations are on a volunteer basis.
I have travelled extensively throughout the world instructing and teaching karate and tournament officiating, followed up by writing several technical training manuals and an International Tournament Officiating Manual that is now accepted as the international standard for the worldwide Kyokushin organization.
I have sponsored many local events over the past 40+ years that have brought some of the highest level athletes and officials to Richmond. Additionally, I have organized numerous international sports related tours that have included many local athletes and officials. As a community based Martial Arts Program, I have taught thousands of community members the intricacies of karate in a safe and inviting environment.
I continue and will continue to be engaged in Richmond, mainly through the sporting community, to promote a healthy and active lifestyle to the citizens of Richmond. My involvement in this fuels my desire to engage with all levels of the community, not just elite athletes. Being actively involved in the sporting community and supporting “best practices” contributes to the well being and health of all members of Richmond Centre.
Evan Dunfee
Evan Dunfee has been an incredible ambassador for Richmond on the global stage as an Olympic race walker. Competitively Evan has performed at the highest level, winning Olympic and World Championship medals. However, Evan is better known for his sportsmanship displayed after being bumped in the final stages of the 2016 Olympic 50km race in a battle for a medal. Evan chose not to appeal that decision, letting the result stand and received national awards for sportsmanship and was commended internationally.
Locally, Evan has been a role model to the City’s children and adults. Evan has spoke to dozens of schools in Richmond Centre promoting goal setting, finding your passion, being active and helping others. Through these talks, and other endeavours Evan has helped raise over $50,000 for KidSport BC, with a lot of that money staying in Richmond to help more kids get access to sport. In 2021 Evan even managed to have 35,000 boxes of Kraft Dinner donated to the Richmond Foodbank.
On top of all that Evan has been a volunteer coach, when he is home, with the Richmond Kajaks since he was a teenager.
Evan has been incredibly selfless and a stalwart in our community. He makes time for everyone, and I can’t think of anyone more deserving of this recognition.
Written by Evan’s coach, Gerry Dragomir.
Hitesh Jain
As a 28-year-old immigrant who arrived in Canada in 2018, I am proud to have made a meaningful contribution to the community through my work in healthcare. My passion for community service and healthcare has driven me to become the Clinic Manager of the largest family practice care clinic in Richmond, providing excellent and personalized care to over 40,000 patients in the Richmond Centre community and beyond.
When I joined the healthcare sector, I quickly realized the crisis in family care, and I knew I had to do something about it. I was determined to improve the quality of healthcare services provided to patients, and under my leadership, Richmond Centre became the first constituency in Richmond to have Nurse Practitioners integrated into the team-based family care model, providing care to over 4500 patients of Richmond. This was a major accomplishment, and I am proud to have been part of this significant milestone.
Over the years, I have focused on quality improvement initiatives, hiring initiatives to address the shortage of doctors, and patient management. These efforts have paid off, and under my leadership, the clinic has been awarded the Business Leadership of the Year 2021 and Outstanding Workplace of the Year 2022 by the Richmond Chamber of Commerce. These awards are a testament to the hard work and dedication of the entire clinic team, and I am proud to lead them.
Recently, I was also honoured to be facilitated with the position of Peer Mentor by the Practice Support Program of the Doctors of BC organization, where I help medical clinics struggling to overcome the challenges they face. Outside of my clinic hours, I offer free consulting to all physicians and clinic owners of Richmond in the field of family care operations. I believe that this has been an impactful initiative, and I am humbled by the opportunity to support my peers and make a meaningful difference in the healthcare sector.
I am truly honoured to be considered for the Constituent of the Year award. I am committed to serving the community and making a positive impact in the healthcare sector, and I am grateful for the opportunity to do so every day. Thank you for your time and consideration.
Jackie Lee
Over the years, I have organized and participated in numerous fundraising campaigns for charitable organizations such as the Richmond Hospital Foundation, BC Children Hospital Foundation, BC Cancer Foundation, BC Women’s Hospital Foundation, SPCA, and the Food Bank. Through my network of supporters, I have raised significant amounts of money that have made a positive impact on the lives of many in our community.
In addition to fundraising, I have also contributed to the community by delivering Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) to Richmond Hospital and St. Paul’s Hospital through the Provincial Health Authority and various senior care facilities, including the Richmond Kiwanis Senior Citizens Housing Society, S.U.C.C.E.S.S. Senior Homes, and Villa Cathay Care Home. I have also coordinated non-perishable food collections and deliveries to the Richmond Food Bank.
My commitment to community service is also reflected in my involvement in various social and cultural organizations. I have been an active member of the Rotary International Richmond Sunset, serving as its president and earning a multi-level Paul Harris Fellow award for my long-term service. I have also helped establish the Vancouver Diamond Lions Club as Charter Director, later became President and held several leadership positions within the Lions Club International District 19A, including International Relations Director and upcoming Zone Chair.
As the Chief Executive Officer of New Generation Broadcasting Radio, I have made significant contributions to the promotion of multiculture in Canada. Under my leadership, the radio station became the largest nonprofit Chinese radio station in Canada, and I trained over 1,000 volunteers to participate in radio broadcasting and multimedia production. We organized youth summer camps with the Vancouver Police Department and the Chinese Cultural Center, promoting inclusion and integration of Asian youth into Canadian society. We also co-organized a sky novel creation competition with SUCCESS, allowing Chinese-speaking youth in Canada to express their creativity in Chinese.
In my role as director of the Chinese Federation of Commerce of Canada, I have promoted the Lunar New Year Festival and Chinese culture to the rest of society. I have also assisted Origin Organic Farms in developing a wholesale network throughout North America and Asia, promoting organic food culture and lower carbon footprint.
My passion for promoting multicultural performance has led me to establish Garfield Productions and participate in the production of thousands of performances, including large concerts such as Priscilla Chan and Jay Chou. I was also the first show coordinator of Vancouver Fashion Week, encouraging emerging models and fashion designers to incorporate into Canadian culture. To promote music exchanges between the United States and Canada and empower musical talents, I organized a series of “USA/Canada Band Battles” music competitions.
Shu E Liu
A retired successful businesswoman from China, Ms. LIU continues to pursue her career after immigrating to Canada and now owns a luxury winery in the Okanagan area. However, she is renowned for her philanthropic efforts, supporting community activities such as sponsoring the Richmond Hospital Foundation and intercultural events.
Her contributions have enriched Richmond’s cultural life and promoted community harmony. As the honorary president and patron of the North American Artists Association (NAAA), she sponsored the organization’s celebrated Richmond 140th Celebration and Awards Gala in 2019. This event enhanced new immigrants’ understanding of Richmond’s history and social diversity, facilitating their integration into society.
Eugene Lupynis
Throughout my 25 years as a Richmond Centre resident, I have been actively involved in a variety of areas of the local community. Being Ukrainian and a passionate Richmond resident I have been involved with the Ukrainian Society of Ivan Franko for many years and have been a board member for the last several years. Ukrainians have been integral in building some of the foundations of Richmond in the early days through farming and trades. The Society strives to preserve the rich Ukrainian Culture and cuisine and shares it with our local community. Most recently, efforts have focused on providing financial and moral support for our Cultural Brethren in Ukraine as they fight for survival from the war brought upon them. Through various local events and fundraisers, we have raised substantial funds which are directly supporting humanitarian aid to Ukraine as well as providing vital assistance to displaced Ukrainians in Richmond that are escaping the war. We have also established support groups, language classes and trauma workshops for individuals in need of assistance.
In addition to the financial support, I have actively met with members of all levels of Government to continue to garner support for Ukraine in these difficult times and have been the face representing Ukrainians and presenting our Society’s views on the situation in Ukraine through a multitude of local, national and international media. This has brought both the Society’s and the Richmond Center Constituency positive attention and focus, showing how our Richmond community rallies in support of a worthy cause.
My involvement in the Richmond community has ranged from business activities, to supporting Richmond Hospital, the arts and small business. Further, while my children were of primary school age, I was the Chairperson of the PAC at Archibald Blair Elementary School. During my involvement in the PAC, we successfully raised sufficient funds to provide the school with a full classroom set of laptops (a luxury at the time). We also spearheaded an annual school carnival to provide a social event for the students. Time was also spent meeting with School Superintendents to discuss education policies and concerns in the district.
Ihsan Malik
My name is Mr. Ihsan Ullah Malik and I have been a dedicated citizen of Canada living in Richmond since 1973. I am honored and humbled to have received this nomination. I have had the great pleasure to have worked for the community in Richmond for many years in several different capacities.
Some of these roles include serving as president of the Metro Vancouver Cross Cultural seniors network in which many projects such as the Elder abuse awareness to action program was launched for the southeast Asian community and another for the Vietnamese community. The society subsequently received a prestigious innovative program award from SFU.
I was also involved in a study that highlighted the impact of covid-19 on isolated Latin-American seniors and many more that highlight my work of being a fierce advocate for the Richmond Seniors community. I worked with multi-cultural and multi-faith groups and I have been on many advisory committees for the Richmond Municipality. At present I am on the Richmond Seniors Advisory committee.
As a retired Air Canada employee, I also gives back to my career field and was on the Vancouver Aeronautical noise management committee for 2 years. Being a Proud Pakistani-Canadian, I gave back to my own community for the last 50 years by serving as President and now an executive member and also spear-headed many significant projects such as development of a community center and mosque. In addition , I volunteered for the Richmond Multicultural society and served as a Vice President. I also served for 4 years as a member of council of advisors in the office of seniors advocate of British Columbia.
My moto that motivates me to give back is “Your life and mine should be valued not by what we take but by what we give”
Bill McNulty
A long-time Richmond resident, Bill McNulty has served continuously on Richmond City Council since 1993. A results-oriented individual, he is a staunch advocate for keeping Richmond a safe, welcoming and inclusive community.
Well-known as an active volunteer whose work has helped make a difference in the lives of others, his experience as a coach and sports administrator led him to become a Founder and subsequent Life Member of the Richmond Sports Council. Bill is also a published author who is passionate about preserving local history, as revealed in his three books on Steveston and Richmond.
A former educator, Bill served over three decades on the Academic Senate of the University of British Columbia. A Rotarian for over thirty years, he works tirelessly to serve and build connections in his community.
Bill McNulty’s commitment to excellence in infrastructure is evident by his support at City Council of developing new aquatic and seniors’ centres in Richmond and community centres in Steveston and downtown north. His support for affordable rental housing in Richmond is acknowledged by his council initiative to build all housing developments with a required percentage of low-income rental units. His campaign to upgrade health services to meet the growing community’s current and future needs continues as the redevelopment of the Richmond Hospital takes shape, providing a new Cancer Care Clinic, Medical Imaging Centre, and a nine-floor acute care tower.
Bill has been recognized both provincially and nationally for his dedication and achievements. In 2005, he was presented the British Columbia Community Achievement Award. In 2012, he was awarded the Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal and also received the Queen Elizabeth II Platinum Jubilee Pin in 2022.
Bill continues to serve his community tirelessly. He represents Richmond as the Second Director on the Metro Vancouver Board of Directors. He also serves as a Member of the Metro Vancouver Housing Committee, Climate Action Committee, and Flood Resiliency Committee. He has been on the Board of Emergency Communications for B.C., E-Comm (911), for 14 years, and is Chair of Richmond’s Community Planning Committee and is a member of several Standing Committees of Council including General Purposes, Finance, Safety, and Parks, Recreation and Cultural Services.
A Life Member of the Richmond Women’s Resource Centre and the Richmond Arts Coalition, and Richmond Arts Connection, Bill served on the Richmond Library Board for many years and is a strong advocate and builder of the library system in Richmond. He continues to be the City Council liaison to numerous advisory committees, organizations, and community associations including the Richmond Sports Council, Steveston Historic Sites Building Committee, Richmond Community Services Advisory Committee, Richmond Intercultural Advisory Committee, and the South Arm Community Association.
Bill McNulty is committed to accountability, transparency and honesty in local government. He is always available to the community and welcomes public input.
Raghu K Nair
Raghu K Nair has been a resident of Richmond since 2014. Since then, Raghu has been working consistently with the Malayalee Community in Richmond and among other communities in the lower mainland.
Raghu who is an IT professional always showed the career path to aspiring engineers and students who passed out from various universities how to land a job and prepared them for interviews.
Raghu also helped numerous newly landed immigrants settle in Richmond and helped them to settle without any hassle. Since 2018, he has been closely working with Phoenix Richmond Malayalee Association and engaged in various social, cultural, and sports events organized under them.
Additionally, I have been on the Board of Directors of the Kerala Cultural Association of British Columbia from 2015-2020. We have conducted multiple food drives to help the poor, conducted many blood donation camps, cultural and sports promotions for youths, etc.
He has been a strong motivational person who advocates the importance of bringing people from different communities together and promoting harmony within them.
Raghu loves hiking, cycling, playing cricket, and sports and spends the majority of the summertime engaging with people from various parts of South Asia in various outdoor activities whereby promoting the importance of mental health and social well-being among his friends. Raghu also helped organizations to conduct cricket tournaments within the South Indian community which beings over 300 people from the lower mainland and Fraser valley.
I have seen Raghu resolve conflicts and handle difficult situations with remarkable patience and admirable tactics. Raghu loves to work hard and always tries to lift the spirits of those around him. Raghu has shown a strong passion for music and with his friends, he started a music community in 2017 to promote cultural activities through a music band called Naadalayam Naadalayam. Since then he had influenced so many people to showcase their musical skills through various programs.
During the pandemic, Raghu has helped numerous South Indians in Richmond and the surrounding area to overcome their challenging situations and is always a call away. I have never seen Raghu say no or show any hesitation in helping anyone.
Jat Puri
Jat Puri has been a dedicated, passionate, and influential Richmond Centre constituent since 1993. He is an inspiring individual that has undoubtedly provided exemplary service, leadership, and commitment in our community. He has contributed over 600+ hours of community service, donated and fundraised for various causes in the City of Richmond, and shines behind-the-scenes, fostering collaboration and teamwork. His commitment to his work and multiple local volunteer organizations are a testament to his caring nature, including his volunteer roles as:
Vice-Chair, Richmond Cares, Richmond Gives (RCRG): 2019 – Present
Jat has supported events like Richmond’s Annual Toy Drive, and Richmond Christmas Fund’s ‘A Not So Silent Night’ auction, which helped 2,835 people and raised over $110,000 for families in 2022 alone. He took on additional responsibilities, serving as an Executive Committee Member, and previously as a Youth Now Mentor to empower and teach four Richmond youth how to volunteer on a board from 2019-2021. He also helped secure a $10,000 Vancouver Airport Authority Community Relations grant to support RCRG’s services for older adults.
Vice-President, Heart of Richmond Aids Society (HORAS): 2019 – Present
Jat supports those in need, like through grocery vouchers programs, sexual education in Richmond high schools, and community awareness through their annual St Patrick’s Day “Get Lucky” campaign. He also set HORAS up on Benevity, a donation site, to create opportunities for others to support this important cause.
Vice-President, West Richmond Community Association (WRCA): 2015 – Present
In addition to VP, he also volunteered as a City of Richmond Art Committee panelist, supporting murals like the ‘Ladybug and the Sun’ and ‘Signs of Pride’, while connecting WRCA with others through the Richmond Communities Meeting, and Youth Now Program.
In addition to volunteering, Jat has worked for Vancouver Airport Authority since 2008. Over the years, he has provided essential services during major events such as the 2010 OIympics, TOIFA Awards and COVID-19 pandemic. This included stepping up front-line to provide translation assistance for repatriation flights during this difficult time. He also trained 450+ Green Coat volunteers at the airport, and facilitated over 2,000 hours of specialized training, collaborating with the Rick Hansen Foundation, Spinal Cord Injury BC, Pacific Autism Family Network, and Canucks Autism Network.
Jat demonstrates accountability and care towards others, even extending outside of his work and volunteer roles, as it’s common to find him doing personal wellness checks, hospital visits and sometimes even speaking at celebrations of life to share warm memories of the valued contributions of other Richmondites. His caring nature has created lasting contributions for residents from all walks of life, including youth, older adults, and the BIPOC and LGBTQ2S+ communities.
Arun Shaju
Arun P Shaju came to the forefront of community work in Richmond, during his tenure as the President of Phoenix Richmond Malayalee Association (PRMA) in 2022. Hailing from Kerala, the southern-most State of India, Mr Shaju is a pioneer in the hospitality field with over 15 years of valuable experience.
While presiding over the association, he along with other office bearers have tried hard to create better growth and opportunities for the association members. Since its inception in 2018, PRMA has been consistently working along with dedicated volunteers, tireless supporters, and visionary leaders to create better growth and opportunity for its members. In reflection of association’s mission and values; the aim of growth has allowed us to evolve into a well-recognized organization, which is committed to relentlessly work for the betterment of its community members.
With unflinching support from 2022 committee, sponsors and well-wishers; PRMA assured constructive participation of its members by providing them with quality programs and diverse activities to give back more to their roots and the community they currently live in. A few of the events PRMA conducted in 2022 like Republic Day celebration, World Environmental Day, Onam celebration, Cricket Tournaments, Family Day, Badminton Tournament, Christmas & New-year celebrations had brought together the whole community.
The time and effort put forward by each and every office bearer and EC members in the Association is duly appreciated and acknowledged.
David Wang
David James Wang has been a visionary, community leader, and thought leader as the Founder of Social Diversity for Children Foundation, a Canadian charity with the mission of empowering youth to empower children with disabilities by creating community social programs that change the lives of children of all abilities. He started volunteering at the age of 10 and was awarded Top 20 under 20 of Canada at 16.
Over the past twelve years, David has impacted the lives of thousands of youths and has made a long-lasting impact on the community. David has continuously made a measurable impact int he lives of children with special needs, publicly speaking about the importance of supporting those children and raising awareness nationwide.
Currently, SDC offers six types of programs including music, art, virtual reality, math, dance, and drama. In 2022 alone, David led the foundation to create more than 80 programs, involving over 1500 direct participants and over 5,000 indirect beneficiaries. Every year, program participation increases by 30-40%. Riding the success and momentum of our programming every year, program demands are increasing significantly, and the organization’s footprint is expanding exponentially, helping more children with special needs every year. This coming year, David is projecting to support more than 100 programs, involving over 1800 direct participants and over 7,000 indirect beneficiaries.
David’s ongoing initiatives and commitment truly show his devotion in creating a community of lasting impact in the lives of those with special needs. Throughout the years, he has earned the respect of his peers, community, and parents of the beneficiaries, who all look up to him as a role model. Without a doubt, David will continue to create an impact and make a difference in building a community where all abilities are respected, and all differences are accepted. His selfless devotion and commitment will continue to thrive, allowing more opportunities to surface, and creating more stories to be shared.
Touched by his unconditional love for his brother and the children with various learning abilities, David continues to dedicate his time to the community.
Ray Wang
In his many volunteer endeavours, Ray Wang has been involved with a diversity of causes and issues that have an impact in the Richmond community. Among these are community initiatives in support of senior adults, low-income families and animal welfare. Additionally, Ray contributes to projects with a focus on women empowerment, health, and the local arts. Ray has also offered his professional skills to organizations seeking support in business and career development by volunteering as a student mentor for a SFU Beedie School of Business student. Ray’s commitment to the community is reflected in the many volunteer roles he has taken on during the last decade. From serving on boards and proposing governance and digital marketing strategies for non-profit organizations to carrying and stocking toys and doing grocery shopping for seniors, he is involved at different levels within organizations that are essential to the Richmond community.
Notably, Ray has served over 1,600 hours in almost every aspect of the community by serving on the board of directors at Richmond Cares, Richmond Gives and Gateway Theatre and engaging in hands-on work for other non-profit organizations such as Richmond Women’s Resource Centre and The Heart of Richmond AIDS Society. Ray’s willingness to support and serve his community is reflected on the variety of organizations and projects with which he has been involved.
The Richmond community is only made stronger with the service and generosity of volunteers like Ray, whose contributions speak to the good that comes from cooperation, kindness, and engagement. Ray openly shares his expertise and knowledge in marketing and media to further the goals of the organizations he serves. Thus, he contributes with long-term strategies that can amplify their cause or mission.
Ji Liang Yao
Mr. Yao is a renowned artist in Chinese ink painting and calligraphy, both in his hometown of Shanghai and now in Canada, where he has lived since 2004. During this time, he has been running free monthly workshops at Richmond Brighouse Library to mentor those interested in learning about Chinese art, as well as organizing four international Chinese calligraphy festivals at the Richmond Cultural Centre.
For his dedication to enriching the local community through art, Mr. Yao was awarded the 2021 Richmond Arts Award for Volunteerism by the Richmond Arts Coalition. He has accumulated over a thousand volunteer hours throughout his work.
Furthermore, Mr. Yao generously donates pieces from his own collection to charity events to benefit non-profit organizations across Richmond, setting a role model example for new immigrants who wish to give back and make their city a better place for all.
Katy Yao
I am Katy Yao, a supervisor from Oak Tree House, which is an independent senior home in Richmond. I have been working here for more than ten years. During the Covid-19 pandemic, we implemented strict protocols to maximize protection for our vulnerable seniors, and to reduce the workload of healthcare staff.
During this time, we alleviated the responsibilities of government helpers by adding additional staff to fulfill the health care worker’s jobs. As the supervisor, I frequently worked extra shifts and took on extra responsibilities to make sure the seniors would not lack anything. We placed emphasis not only on the seniors’ physical health, but also mental wellness during these hard times. With our joint efforts, we have achieved zero infections before Omicron arrived in May 2022.
We kept Oak Tree House Covid free for 2.5 years when it was the most dangerous and prevalent. By keeping our seniors healthy, the greater community of Richmond can remain healthier. We did our best to strive for a Covid free environment so that we could reduce the burden and workload for our local healthcare workers in order to play our part in helping Richmond recover from the pandemic.
Marilou Yodogawa
I am Marilou Yodogawa, a Richmond Centre vicinity resident for 31 years where I raised my children and worked.
I am the founding leader of the Multicultural Helping House Society (MHHS) Richmond 55+sers (formerly the MHHS Filipino Club) in Richmond. At that time, as a Seniors/LIC/TFW Facilitator based in Richmond, I initiated, organized a planning committee and led the first-ever Philippine Flag-Raising ceremony in the City of Richmond in celebration of the Philippine Independence Day and since had been an annual event.
This community event is in collaboration with SD38, SWIS, Filipino leaders and businesses, and non-profit organizations in Richmond. It aimed to raise awareness of the Filipino culture and traditions and for the Youth, the future generation, to recognize the invaluable contributions of their forefathers. As we celebrate our people on this occasion, other ethnic groups are invited to participate to promote diversity and embrace inclusiveness.
In 2023, would be the ninth year of this event and is now celebrated with the Proclamation of June as the Filipino Heritage month in the City of Richmond. It is an opportunity to honour the valuable contributions of the Filipinos in our community and in the Canadian Society.
I am an enthusiastic, committed, and reliable community volunteer. As a team leader, I also serve as a team player. I inspire and motivate seniors and youth to showcase their talents individually or in group presentations at community events that they reach their full potential.
For a few years, in the early 2000, with the support of a Richmond business merchant, my late friend and I organized and led a fun-filled day of intergenerational Filipino cultural activities and performances. We were referred to as the “Filipino Friends in Richmond”.
In participation with other non-profit organizations, I served as a volunteer to an Ageism project and as a Community Action Ambassador.
I also served as a Board and committee member in the community.
The MHHS Richmond 55+sers participate in events through cultural presentations and focus groups.
Ryan Zeng
Ryan Zeng actively involved through volunteer work in many areas:
- As 1st vice president and Leo Lions advisor, led volunteers from Vancouver Fraser Lions Club and Vancouver Fraser Leo Club to collect food donations and served once or twice every month at Richmond Food Bank since March 2020 up to present;
- Charter Executive Director of Vancouver Fraser Lions Club in 2019;
— collect and cleanup glasses for vision center as volunteer - As Store Manager of T&T supermarket, visited and donated to Richmond senior center since January 2015 to present
- Led Vancouver Fraser Lions and Leo Club to help with beach cleanup, bottle recycle and park cleanups.
- Did fund-raising with local community and volunteers to Canadian Red Cross to support natural disaster victims.
Ryan is not only doing volunteer work by himself, but also leading volunteer groups and guiding youth volunteer group. It is a process of encouraging everyday people to participate, to care and to contribute to our community by properly informing and bridging.
Through different projects and events, Ryan Zeng and his group made great positive impact at Richmond Centre community and his services will keep on going for years to come.
Melissa Zhang
Melissa Zhang has been actively involved in our community services for about eighteen years ever since she landed in Richmond and her volunteer work covers issues such as:
Poverty
*Led volunteers from Vancouver Fraser Lions Club and Vancouver Fraser Leo Club, together with community friends to collect food donations and helped with food distribution once or twice every month at Richmond Food Bank since March 2020 up to present;
*Organized “Hunger Relief” project to raise funds and collected food items to donate to Greater Vancouver Food Bank, Richmond Food Bank, etc.
Community Services
*Vice chair of Richmond Sister City Advisory Committee since 2018;
*Zone Chairperson of MD19A Zone 7, Lions Clubs International in 2020-2021;
*Charter President of Vancouver Fraser Lions Club 2019;
*Executive Director of Richmond Cares, Richmond Gives 2018 up to present;
*Treasure of Steveston Historical Society 2020 to present;
Environmental Protection
Led LaPower Running Club, Vancouver Fraser Lions and Leo Club to help with beach cleanup, bottle recycle and park cleanups.
Charity
*Led Vancouver Fraser Club and other community volunteers to support Coldest Night of the Year event since 2017, fund-raising for Chimo Foundation Richmond to help people in hunger, homeless or violence.
*Led volunteers helping with grocery shopping and delivering for Safe Seniors Safe Community program since 2020;
*Did fund-raising with local community for a Vital Sign Monitor donated to Richmond Hospital During pandemic period;
*Collectively donated PPE items to senior residents, charities, hospitals, etc.;
*Did fund-raising with local community and volunteers to Canadian Red Cross to support natural disaster victims;
*Donated and Fund-raised for Richmond Christmas Fund every year, led volunteer group to help with “Not So Silent Night”, and donated toys and books to RCMP ‘Toy Drive”;
*Donated goods and fruits to Grace Senior Home every year since 2019;
*Led volunteers to serve at the Third World Eye Care Society to collect used eyeglasses and sort them out;
Community Safety
*Assisted setting up Block Watch groups in Seafair area, Blundell area, etc.; Organized information sessions and training, sharing about property safety;
*Helped hosting/organizing neighborhood parties/events;
*Setup “Meet and Greet” events for local residents to meet with our RCMP officers and community safety staff from our city.
Bill Zhuo
Xiangwei (Bill) Zhuo became a director of these three associations in March 2022.
Bill has participated in many NPO organizations in the Chinese community. His joining has expanded the network for activities such as anti-discrimination and raising the awareness of Chinese Canadian to participate in political affairs. Bill also supported other NPO to anti-discrimination and hold the media conference with SAAHCAG, bravely said “no” to those disinformation that harmed the Chinese community. His action played an exemplary role in encouraging Chinese Canadian to speak out.
As a young man, Bill also work hard to lead more young community members to break through cultural barriers and integrate into mainstream society. He organized the Elite Club’s “Spark Program” and “Social Etiquette Courses” to popularize Canadian politics and culture for Chinese Canadian youth, especially who come from immigration families.
At the same time, he donated office space for the associations, which strongly supported the development and construction of the community.
In view of Xiangwei (Bill) Zhuo’s contribution to the Chinese community in Greater Vancouver and Canadian society, he is a deserving nominee.
OUR COMMUNITY IS POWERED BY CONTRIBUTIONS
FROM SUPPORTERS LIKE YOU.
Thank You for Your Outstanding Services.
For all media inquiries, please contact Wilson.Miao@parl.gc.ca.
