BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Ziona Zhou

Executive Director

Ms. Zhou graduated from the Nipissing University with a Bachelor’s of Commerce degree. Ziona is an accomplished professional with over 10 years of experience in the non-profit sector, demonstrating a strong commitment to community development and social impact. She has successfully spearheaded numerous initiatives aimed at promoting Children’s art, education, health, and empowerment within Asian-Canadian communities.

Her unwavering commitment to empowering Asian-Canadian communities has been evident through her innovative programs and collaborative partnerships, which have significantly contributed to the enhancement of various social welfare and advocacy initiatives.
Her visionary leadership and dedication to fostering sustainable change have solidified CICAF’s position as a pivotal force in driving meaningful transformation and improving the lives of countless individuals.

Lisa Zhu

Director

Born and raised in Canada, Lisa Zhu developed a profound love for the arts from an early age. Her journey in the world of art and education began to unfold as she pursued her academic endeavors. Lisa holds a degree in Fine Arts, with a specialization in art education, from a prestigious Canadian institution.

Lisa Zhu’s connection with CICAF began as a participant in its youth art programs during her formative years. As a budding artist, she not only honed her technical skills but also discovered the profound impact that artistic expression could have on personal development and cultural understanding.

Lisa Zhu’s leadership extends beyond her professional roles into advocacy for the integration of art education into mainstream curricula. Her personal journey from a CICAF participant to a board member illustrates the profound impact of youth art programs and serves as a compelling argument for the importance of art in education. As a Board Member of CICAF, Lisa actively contributes her insights to strategic planning, ensuring that the foundation’s programs continue to inspire and empower the next generation of artists.

Tao (Thomas) Qu

Director

Qu Tao founded the Canadian Chinese Professionals Association (CPAC), which has created a new trend of high-tech exchanges between China and Canada, and the association is still a leader in this field. In the past five years, he founded the Dulanga Chinese Cultural Center (DCCC), the Duranga Chinese Business Chamber (DCBC), which is dedicated to the all-round exchanges between the eight towns of Durham Region and the municipality directly under the jurisdiction of China, including the establishment of Changping District of Beijing. Government friendly exchanges and cooperation in Wuxi City, Jiangsu Province and Duran District, Ontario, Canada (Friend City).