February marks a dual celebration of cultural richness and diversity with the observance of Black History Month and Lunar New Year.

These occasions serve as poignant reminders of the importance of understanding and honoring our own heritage while also striving to be allies to others.

As we reflect on the significance of these events, I have an opportunity to catch up with my colleague Rebecca Pang, MBA CTP CFA CBV where we exchange ideas on how we support our communities and why it matters to us.

Rebecca (RP): Christian, your efforts have been recently acknowledged as the Global Citizen Award recipient at RBC. Share with us what it meant to be a Global Citizen?

Christian (CN):  It was an extremely enriching and inspiring. I'm so grateful and proud to see the reach and the impact of our actions, whether large or small, motivated by our organization’s purpose. Reflecting on what I have done and the RBC purpose framework launched at the end of last year, there is a lot alignment. It focuses on prevailing societal challenges such as urgent environmental crises, growing inequalities and the rapidly changing workforce. It's impressive to see our organization's commitment to defining our ambition in the face of these challenges, and the means deployed to deliver tangible and yet sustainable actions. As RBCers, we certainly have a role to play. All we have to do is go through it to identify something that compels us, and take action now. We must act as amplifiers.

RP: You have contributed to various black communities within and outside RBC for many years (that leads to the Global Citizen Award). What motivate you on taking the leadership on these initiatives?

CN:  Last year, I celebrated 15 years with RBC. I occupied many roles in different lines of business. I met some exceptional people along the way and some extraordinary leaders who continue to guide me to this day. Despite the efforts and progress that have been made, representation and inequality still prevail. This is something that I take to heart. As minorities, we must take action. While our organization has set ambitious goals in terms of DEI, we must also be a vector of change. We can act as a voice for the field due to lived experiences. We can facilitate the creation of bridges between our organization and the community to enable our organization to have a significant impact. I'm passionate about making a positive impact. I have an enormous desire to drive change, innovation and pass on knowledge to inspire and empower others.

RP: This year’s Black History Month’s theme is “Black Excellence: A Heritage to Celebrate; a Future to Build.” What does it mean to you?

CN: We often hear the term "black excellence", but many struggle to define it in concrete terms. What exactly does it mean? Black excellence refers to the outstanding achievements, contributions, and successes of individuals within the black community across various fields in our society. It encompasses resilience, leadership, innovation, and the ability to overcome obstacles in the face of adversity. Black excellence celebrates the richness of black culture, heritage, and talent while inspiring future generations to strive for greatness and create positive change in society. We don't tell our story enough. We must be proud of this heritage. We have an obligation to keep telling our story. It strengthens us and lays a solid foundation for the future we want to build together as a society.

CN:  Thanks for the opportunity to share my perspective on Black History Month. Sharing the knowledge and having the curiosity to learn are the foundation of creating allyship; and fostering allyship are essential steps toward building a more inclusive society. Rebecca, you want to share what supporting other minorities means to you?

RP: As an Asian immigrant in Canada, I find profound significance in celebrating Black History Month as a staunch ally. The first time I heard about Black History Month is when I was studying in New York. I was captivated by the fervor with which the Black community commemorates and honors their heritage—a practice that profoundly shapes identity and propels progress. At a time when I grappled with my own roots, having been born in Hong Kong but gravitating towards Western culture, witnessing the power of embracing one’s heritage was transformative. And at RBC, I was inspired by the resilience and unity within the Black community and I recognized the imperative to foster similar support networks for Asian professionals. Witnessing the advocacy of our colleagues in establishing employee affinity network (e.g. Beacon and Black Professional Network) at RBC served as a catalyst. Last year, I took initiative to create an Asian professional network, drawing from the example set by the Black community. So I really appreciate the inspiration and how all of you pave the wave for others to build a strong sense of belonging and empowerment.

CN: By the way, Happy Lunar New Year to you as well! What’s your family doing to celebrate?

RP: The past weekend, Chinese Canadians across the country gathered in celebration of Lunar New Year. The celebration holds immense importance beyond the vibrant festivities of lion dances, delectable feasts, and cherished family reunions. For me, it's an opportunity to impart to my son the richness of his roots and heritage, and the timeless values they represent. Beyond the glittering decorations and sumptuous meals, Lunar New Year symbolizes resilience, gratitude, and familial bonds deeply ingrained in the culture.

 By embracing our own heritage and committing to allyship, we can collectively build a more inclusive culture where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.

This February, let us honor the legacies of Black History and Lunar New Year traditions.

RP : Christian, thank you for sharing our stories with one another!