JOHN LEHMANN
With increasing numbers of immigrants arriving every year from Asia, the Caribbean and other parts of the world, Canada's urban demographic makeup is undergoing a profound shift. Marina Jimenez talks with seven emerging leaders from this new demographic, and their thoughts on immigration, philanthropy, success and influence.
Robert Fung, founder and president of the Salient Group, is one of Vancouver's most influential businessmen, as well as a philanthropist. His company focuses on the reuse of heritage buildings, and on restoring and creating vibrant communities in the city.
Why and when did you move to Canada?
I was born and raised in Etobicoke, Ont., to a Trinidadian-born Chinese father and a Nova Scotian mother with Irish roots.
What was your biggest challenge?
Being one of the only kids in my school of Chinese ancestry, it was difficult understanding that others felt I was different, while I didn't.
What are the barriers people from diverse backgrounds face in becoming leaders?
I believe that we are on the cusp of a sea change in the face of our leadership. Be it age, sex or ancestry, leadership is evolving. The historic entitlement to leadership that has been held by our traditional Anglo base is evolving as their kids' circles of influence expand.
Who are your personal heroes?
Richard Branson, Elon Musk, Steve Jobs, Jim Balsillie, the social workers of Covenant House Vancouver.
What impact have you made on your community, and on wider Canadian society?
Through my business and community work, I have helped bring recognition to the importance of our heritage in revitalizing neighbourhoods and bolstering local economies and social health. Vancouver's Downtown Eastside is our most dynamic and exciting neighbourhood because of its cultural, social and economic diversity. However, it has only been through significant private investment and public discussion that the cultural value of this area has been recognized.
Who are the future voices of Canada?
Our Western youth have an incredible connection to global issues. The current school-age generation is fluent in Western as well as Asian/South-Asian languages and culture. It is becoming seamless. As the global economy shifts east, the strength of our historic connections will merge with the strengths of our emerging demographic to create a power of dialogue and business potential.
Marina Jimenez