Our Team
Meet the incredible team of contributors who volunteers their time and passion to bring our organization to life. Their selfless contributions are the heartbeat of our mission, fueling positive change and making a meaningful impact in our Cantonese/Toisan community.
Kim
The visionary behind Cantonese & Toisan Social/Language Lessons/Exhibit, Kim emerges from the vibrant cultural mosaic of New York City. Born in Chinatown NYC, Kim’s roots are deeply connected to Chinatown and the Lower East Side’s rich immigrant history. Raised by both Toisan parents, her upbringing was steeped in the traditions of her heritage. Kim’s mother, hailing from Hong Kong, imparted the melodies of Cantonese through the flickering screen of TVB dramas, while the streets of Chinatown became her classroom for mastering the nuances of Toisan.
With a bachelor’s degree in social work, Kim has collected Cantonese and Toisan-related history books for over 20 years. Her passion for preserving her cultural heritage extends beyond personal interests, as she volunteers to teach Cantonese and Toisan. It was amidst the bustling streets of Chinatown that Kim’s dedication to preserving and celebrating her cultural legacy took root, culminating in the founding of Cantonese & Toisan Social/Language Lessons/Exhibit—a testament to her commitment to bridging the past with the present.
In addition to her cultural work, Kim is dedicated to supporting the homeless and single-parent families. If anyone would like to join her in providing goods and food to these individuals, please reach out to Kim at Kimberlinachi@gmail.com
Hector Zhong
Born in Guangzhou, China, Hector is a native Cantonese and an IT technician. He is deeply committed to spreading and preserving the essence of Cantonese and Chinese culture. With a free spirit and a passion for cultural heritage. Hector has been a dedicated volunteer supporting Chinatown Cantonese Toisan since 2018. His efforts have been instrumental in fostering a vibrant community and ensuring the continuity of cultural traditions.
Hector’s favorite food is wonton noodles, a beloved dish in Cantonese cuisine that symbolizes his deep connection to his cultural roots.
Yin
An acclaimed children’s book author, celebrated for her poignant narratives that honor her Toisan heritage and illuminate often-overlooked aspects of history. Yin’s family background in Toisan and her experience as a Cantonese interpreter provided the foundation for her book “Coolies,” a moving tribute to the Cantonese contributions to the United States railroads in the late 1800s, has garnered prestigious accolades including the Parent’s Choice Gold Award and The International Reading Association Book of the Year. She travels across the country, visiting schools to deliver presentations that celebrate her Chinese heritage. Her book “Coolies” serves as the centerpiece of these celebrations, allowing her to share the rich history of Cantonese contributions to the United States with students everywhere.
Shuhong Liang
Mr. Liang is the Chairman of The A&C Culture Center, located at 76 Mott Street, 4th Floor in Manhattan’s Chinatown. The center is deeply committed to fostering cultural and artistic exchanges. Mr. Liang, a true Toisan at heart, generously provides artists with a platform for artistic dialogue, fostering innovation and development. When you speak with him, you can hear his Toisan accent, reflecting his deep connection to his roots. This enables personal exchanges and collaborations, embodying the spirit of Chinese traditional culture.
Additionally, the center actively engages with younger generations through various cultural activities, nurturing the next generation of art enthusiasts. The A&C Culture Center has been instrumental in hosting events for Chinatown Cantonese Toisan, thanks to the generous support of Liang Shuhong and his wife, Mrs. Liang Yumei, who have generously provided their exhibit space. Visit their website
Crystal Lau
Meet Crystal, our web designer and content writer. When she’s not crafting digital marvels, you’ll find her in the kitchen, donning her apron as a dumpling master. Her rice rolls are legendary, blending tradition with a soy sauce of innovation.
But that’s not all—Crystal also rocks the bass. As the sun sets over Brooklyn, she exchanges her technology hat for a bass guitar, playing soulful tunes that resonate through the city’s streets.
With a love for drawing and boba, Crystal’s heart beats for her cultural heritage. Born in Queens, NYC, as a third-generation Asian-American with roots in Cantonese and Toisan descent, she celebrates her mother’s rich heritage. Crystal’s journey is a fusion of technology, art, music, and culinary delights, reflecting her deep connection to her heritage and her vibrant life in the city. She is not just a part of our team; she’s a living embodiment of cultural pride, innovation, and artistic spirit.