The Chinese Cultural Centre of Greater Toronto (CCCGT) proudly hosted the 25th Anniversary Imperial Ball on Saturday, September 20, 2025, at the Fairmont Royal York Hotel. This landmark fundraising gala was a resounding success, uniting dignitaries, representatives of leading corporations, and community leaders for an evening of celebration, connection, and cultural pride.
The Chinese Cultural Centre of Greater Toronto’s 25th Anniversary Imperial Ball Concluded Successfully
This year’s Imperial Ball carried special significance as it marked two important milestones: the 25th Anniversary of the Imperial Ball itself, and the commencement of Phase 3 of CCCGT, the Asian Garden Project.
Guests raised their glasses in celebration, toasting one another.
Guests gathered for a group photo and sang the Canadian national anthem to mark the opening of the gala.
Guests were captivated by a moving video presentation of the Asian Garden, introduced with a prologue conceived by Dr. M.T. Cheung, Founder of CCCGT, and themed around Wang Xizhi’s Lanting Xu. The presentation served as a symbolic bridge between heritage and vision, echoing the enduring mission of CCCGT.
Alan Lam, Chairman of the Chinese Cultural Centre of Greater Toronto, delivered his remarks.
Lenny Wong, Chair of the Special Anniversary Imperial Ball, also delivered his speech.
A highlight of the gala was a remarkable donation of $720,000 from Marilake Heritage Language School towards the Asian Garden Project. This generous gift reflects the strong commitment of the community to building a cultural space that will celebrate Asian heritage and serve as a lasting legacy for generations to come.
Federal Minister for Energy and Natural Resources of Canada, Hon. Tim Hodgson, deliveredremarks and presented a commemorative scroll to the Chairman, Alan Lam, and President, Angela Chan.
Consul General of China in Toronto, Weidong Luo, delivered remarks.
Ontario Minister for Seniors and Accessibility, Hon. Raymond Cho, together with MPP Daisy Wai and MPP Aris Babikian, delivered remarks and presented the congratulatory scroll to Chairman, Alan Lam and President, Angela Chan.
Representative of H. Ching-Kircher Inc. DFC Auto Group, Ken Tsui, received a plaque of appreciation as Official Auto Sponsor.
Representative of the Congee Queen Group, Max Cheung, delivered remarks as Honorary Patrons and received a plaque of appreciation from Chairman Alan Lam and President Angela Chan.
David Maung (Lim), CEO of Floors At Work Group delivered remarks and received a plaque of appreciation from Chairman Alan Lam and President Angela Chan. Representative
Marilake Heritage Language School generously donated CAD \$730,000 to support the “Asian Garden Project.”
As part of the evening, guests were invited to share their thoughts and comments on the Asian Garden Project by completing the Asian Garden Postcard. This initiative was created to actively engage the community in shaping the project’s future. By submitting a postcard, participants were automatically entered into a Lucky Draw for a chance to win prizes including an iPhone 17, a traditional Chinese dinner, and a one-night stay in a Fairmont Gold Room at the Fairmont Royal York Hotel. The Lucky Draw will take place on October 10, 2025, and winners will be contacted directly by CCCGT.
Presentation of Sponsor Appreciation Plaques
Presentation of Sponsor Appreciation Plaques
The evening’s program was enriched by performances that highlighted the beauty and diversity of Chinese arts and culture. Audiences were enthralled by the elegance of My Mulan Dance and the stirring music of the Chinese Canadian Orchestra Chamber Ensemble, which further underscored the gala’s role as a cultural showcase. In addition to the performances, excitement filled the ballroom with live auction items generously contributed by Royal de Versailles and he Consulate General of the People’s Republic of China, creating both spirited bidding and meaningful contributions in support of CCCGT.
The success of the 25th Anniversary Imperial Ball was made possible through the generosity and commitment of our sponsors, donors, media partners, and community organizations, to whom we extend our heartfelt gratitude. Proceeds from this milestone celebration will benefit the Asian Garden Project and sustain CCCGT’s year-round cultural, educational, and youth empowerment programs. With its rich program and overwhelming community support, the Imperial Ball continues to shine as a beacon of cultural exchange, unity, and celebration, and the 25th Anniversary edition was truly unforgettable.
Easycan Inc. (Easy Media) Journalist Fengyun Lin / Photojournalist