Vancouver FASCA hosted a cross-regional online exchange on the evening of August 26th at 7:00 p.m, inviting members of Seattle FASCA to participate. Attendees including; Ms. Shu Chen Kuo, Director of TECO in Vancouver, Secretary Amy Lin , and Mr. Wei Zan Wang , Director of Culture Center of TECO in Seattle, Mentor Xiuzhen Wang, and Mentor Shiyun Zheng from the Seattle FASCA; as well as Committee Member Cixin You, Mentor Huimin You, Mentor Wenling Gao, and Mentor Yanjie Zhang from the Vancouver FASCA. The host of the event was Jonathen Wu, one of the FASCA members.
The guest speaker was a former British Columbia Member of the Legislative Assembly (MLA) Katrina Chen, who shared her insights on “the importance of being true to yourself.” Drawing on her own journey growing up and serving in public office, Katrina emphasized the significance of sincerity, confidence, and courage in navigating a multicultural environment.
Katrina engaged actively with the youth participants, encouraging them to remain true to themselves by reflecting on their experiences, exploring their passions, and facing challenges head-on. During the interactive discussion, FASCA members shared their own dreams and aspirations for the future. One student revealed their ambition to become a film director and will soon be heading to university to pursue that dream.
In concluding her talk, Katrina shared a story illustrating self-worth: “A bottle of water might be worth only a few dollars at a market, a higher price at a convenience store, but in a desert, it would be priceless.” She reminded the youth that personal value is not determined by others or by circumstances, but by one’s own recognition.
The event featured lively interaction between FASCA members from both Vancouver and Seattle. During the Q&A session, participants asked thoughtful questions about how to maintain a clear sense of self in a rapidly changing society and how to balance personal growth with public responsibility. Chen responded warmly and vividly, motivating students to pursue their dreams with courage and authenticity.
This exchange not only strengthened cross-regional ties but also deepened understanding of the role sincerity and self-confidence play in personal development and leadership. FASCA members look forward to a continued collaboration and cultural exchange activities, broadening the international outlook of overseas Taiwanese youth and fostering a shared spirit of service and leadership.
