Born and raised in Victoria, Mike is a fifth generation Chinese-Canadian who has deep roots within representation and activism. His great, great-grandfather (Mah Bing Kee) immigrated from China to Nanaimo BC in 1878 and faced racism upon arrival as he was viewed as unfair labour competition in the local mines. Later on, Mah Bing Kee was able to purchase 43 acres of land which resulted in it becoming the Chinatown in Nanaimo, a source of economic opportunity and an aid in adjusting to a new environment for newly arrived Chinese. Now as a Toronto resident, Mike is currently exploring how he can impact the Asian Canadian community and increase representation for future generations of Asian Canadians.
Prior to joining NAAAP TO, Mike had an extensive career within the retail landscape. With over 15+ years of retail experience with domestic and European exposure, he has had the opportunity to work with global organizations which include The GAP, Club Monaco and Burberry. Most recently, Mike has ventured into the Diversity, Inclusion and Equity field by completing the “Fostering Inclusion and Diversity” Certificate programme from Yale School of Management. He also holds a Bachelors of Fine Arts Degree in Visual Arts and History in Art from the University of Victoria.
"The Work is More Important than Your Reputation." - Bobby Hundreds