Moving Beyond Borders
On May 16th, 2025, PCHC-MoM, in collaboration with Capilano University, hosted “Moving Beyond Borders”, a dynamic panel event to spread awareness and celebrate Asian Heritage Month. This gathering was one of several meaningful events organized throughout May by Carrie Jung, whose leadership and vision brought together voices from across the Asian diaspora to share stories of identity, resilience, and leadership. This event was a celebration of community and connection, held on the traditional, ancestral, and unceded territories of the Musqueam, Squamish, and Tsleil-Waututh Nations.
“Even though this is the first time I met them, I feel like I’ve known them all my life.”
The day began with a warm welcome from moderator and host Nafisa Golwala, who introduced the event with a land acknowledgement and an overview of the program. The first group of speakers featured Kai Liang, Siani Shivaram, and Diary Marif. Each speaker offered a unique perspective on navigating their careers as Asian immigrants or Asian-Canadians.
Kai Liang, a Senior Project Manager at BC Cancer Redevelopment, shared her inspiring journey from philosophy student to leader in healthcare infrastructure. Her pivot from commercial construction to public health projects following the pandemic underscored the impact of purpose-driven work.
Siani Shivaram, a Senior Product Manager at Microsoft, reflected on her path from software engineering to product design in Vancouver. A passionate advocate for diversity in STEM, Siani emphasized how cultural identity and visibility are critical in shaping a more equitable industry.
Diary Marif, a freelance journalist and writer, spoke about his work with SIETAR and his commitment to intercultural education and combating racism.
Rather than individual Q&A sessions, Nafisa facilitated a shared conversation with group-based questions that encouraged organic dialogue and mutual reflection. This approach engaged much of the audience and encouraged them to ask meaningful questions throughout the event. Someone in the audience asked the panelist what the word belonging meant to each one of them, another asked about their lived experience. This discussion among the panelist also empowered someone in the audience with courage to share their own story.
After the first panel, attendees enjoyed a short break which was accompanied by a soulful jazz performance from professional jazz pianist, Afghan Rasul, adding a vibrant and artistic layer to the event. This break also included delicious Indian Cuisine from Tandoori Palace, with some coffee, and pastries brought in all the way from Chinatown.
The second panel welcomed Vincent Wong, TJ Delegencia, and Cathy Lee. The format was kept consistent to maintain flow and create a similar space for stories to be collected by our next panelists.
Vincent Wong, Director of Marketing & Communications at the Arts Club Theatre Company, brought over two decades of experience in nonprofit and cultural sectors. He spoke about his work in advocacy and Asian diaspora representation through the arts.
TJ Delegencia (he/him), Manager of Diversity, Equity & Inclusion at Capilano University, drew from his lived experience as a Queer Chinese-Filipino Canadian and brain tumor survivor. His insights on equity, intersectionality, and workplace transformation were deeply resonant.
Cathy Lee, Director of School Development at Bodwell High School, reflected on her long-standing commitment to education and community building since immigrating to Canada from Hong Kong in 1988. Her story highlighted the power of vision, persistence, and grassroots organizing.
The final group discussion brought all six speakers together to reflect on their collective experiences. Topics ranged from overcoming systemic barriers to the role of mentorship and representation in shaping inclusive industries. It was a space filled with honesty, wisdom, and shared purpose.
This video captures the spirit of “Moving Beyond Borders,” a powerful celebration of Asian Canadian voices, resilience, and community through storytelling, dialogue, and culture.
The event concluded with remarks by the co-presidents of PCHC-MoM, Stan DeMello and Lucy Sun, who presented each speaker and performer with a small token of appreciation for their time and effort. Attendees were invited to stay, mingle, and enjoy refreshments.
This event, made possible through the dedication of Carrie Jung and the collaboration between PCHC-MoM and Capilano University, stood as a powerful reminder of the strength, diversity, and leadership of the Asian Canadian community. Through storytelling, music, and dialogue, Moving Beyond Borders invited us all to reflect, celebrate, and look forward. A few days later, Carrie shared feedback from one of the attendees who said, “Even though this is the first time I met them, I feel like I've known them all my life."
Explore More: Beyond the Borders Series
