Honouring Asian Heritage Month 2025

Each May, the University of Waterloo proudly honours Asian Heritage Month by recognizing the remarkable achievements, enduring contributions, and spirit of fellowship shared by students, faculty, staff, alumni, and partners of Asian heritage. 

At Waterloo, we believe success is built on the strength of people and an openness to a diversity of perspectives. Our community includes individuals with heritage from across East, South, Southeast, and Central Asia who are driving innovation in research, creating vibrant student experiences, and leading efforts toward a more equitable and sustainable future for humanity and our planet. These individuals help shape the campus experience, expand the University’s impact, and strengthen a commitment to inclusivity we all share. 

This commitment includes extending care where it is most needed. In light of the tragic attack this past weekend at the Lapu Lapu Festival in Vancouver, I encourage all of us to take the opportunity to offer support to those affected, especially to members of the Filipino community here at Waterloo or with ties to Vancouver. When tragedy strikes, we are reminded of how deeply we are connected across families, friendships, and communities around the world. We extend our solidarity to those directly affected and recognize our shared responsibility to stand alongside one another in times of grief and challenge.  

One way of showing your support, whether in challenging times or in celebration, is to learn more about the rich cultures represented across our campuses. Groups like the Filipino Students' Association, UW Chinese Students Association, Indian Cultural Association, Korean Students Association, Japan Club, UW Sikh Students Association and many others host events, discussions, and celebrations that deepen our understanding of the diverse histories, cultures, and experiences within Asian communities. 

Our values remind us that openness, diversity of thought, and reciprocity are essential to building a thriving community. Our community and international footprint is enriched by strong connections across Asia. Waterloo’s growing partnerships with universities, industries, and alumni networks throughout the region help create new opportunities for students, support collaborative research, and build bridges that benefit our global society.   

Many alumni of Asian heritage continue to lead change in Canada and around the world. As profiled in Waterloo Magazine, Ruhuni de Alwis (BA ’89, BMath ’89), came to Canada from Sri Lanka, used Waterloo’s co-op program as a springboard to an exceptional career—and a lifelong connection to the university. Her partner, Barry Matsui (BMath ’89), and their two sons Noah (MAcc ’19) and Jacob (MAcc ’21), continued the UWaterloo legacy, along with over a dozen family members who studied in mathematics, accounting, and engineering. 

Simon Chan (BA ’98), founder of Adapt with Intent, helps retirees find purpose and fulfillment, while Dr. Mahla Poudineh, Faculty of Engineering professor and director of the IDEATION Lab, is advancing real-time diagnostic technology for people living with Type 1 diabetes. 

Later this month, we’ll be sharing new profiles on the Asian Heritage Month webpage, featuring inspiring members of our community such as Jennifer Lee (BA ’00), vice-chair and senior partner at Deloitte; Joy Jiang, a statistician improving cancer diagnostics; and Disney Lam (BMath ’14), who founded a scholarship to support women in STEM. 

As we recognize Asian Heritage Month, let us reflect on the value of diverse perspectives and the bonds of fellowship that sustain our community and drive our work. At Waterloo, we think differently, act with purpose, and work together. That commitment to inclusive excellence is needed today now more than ever and helps ensure the university remains a dynamic, welcoming, and globally engaged institution for all. 

Visit the Asian Heritage Month website to explore stories and opportunities to engage throughout the month.