2026/03/21 Congratulatory Message from OCAC Deputy Minister Yen-Hui Lee | TCML Tzu Chi Academy North Toronto Unveiling Ceremony
Congratulatory Message from OCAC Deputy Minister Yen-Hui Lee | TCML Tzu Chi Academy North Toronto Unveiling Ceremony
Classic Songs Echo Across the Winter! TCML at Tzu Chi Academy North Toronto 2026 Winter Program Successfully Concluded
2026/03/29 | Francis Leung / Report from Canada
A group photo of the TCML 2026 Winter Sunday Class graduation. (5th from left) Paul Lan, Director of the Culture Center of TECO in Toronto; (3rd from left) Daphne Hsu, Vice Director; and (4th from left) Jane Huang, Principal of Tzu Chi Academy North Toronto, pose with students holding their certificates in a warm and festive atmosphere.
Multi-ethnic Students Challenge Tongue Twisters and Classic Hits, Demonstrating the Excellence of "Immersive" Learning
Under the guidance of the Overseas Community Affairs Council (OCAC) and hosted by Tzu Chi Academy North Toronto, the Taiwan Center for Mandarin Learning (TCML) held graduation ceremonies for its 2026 Winter adult Mandarin classes this past Tuesday evening and Sunday afternoon. Director Paul Lan and Vice Director Daphne Hsu of the Culture Center of the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office (TECO) in Toronto were invited to attend, joining teachers and students to witness the touching achievements of participants who braved the severe winter to deepen their roots in Mandarin culture.
Lively Interaction: Warm Moments of Tongue Twisters and International Delicacies
The atmosphere at the graduation was vibrant. Students took turns challenging the notoriously difficult Chinese tongue twister: "Eat grapes without spitting out the skins, don't eat grapes but spit out the skins." The dedication of non-ethnic Chinese students in practicing retroflex sounds and tonal shifts won thunderous applause from the audience. Adding to the warmth, Indian student Sohel Suterwala generously shared traditional Indian desserts with the entire class, beautifully showcasing the cross-cultural exchange that defines TCML.
In his speech, Director Paul Lan highly praised the joyful interaction between teachers and students. He noted that TCML is more than just a professional language school; it is a warm "big family." He encouraged students to continue integrating Mandarin into their daily lives after graduation and extended a warm welcome for them to visit Taiwan in the future to experience its authentic culture and renowned hospitality.
Immersive Pedagogy: From Table Etiquette to Classic Song Renditions
This term’s curriculum emphasized "practicality" and "real-life situational teaching." A major highlight was the "Classic Song Renditions," where students refined their pronunciation by singing hits like "Sweet Honey Honey," "The Plum Blossom," and "The Moon Represents My Heart." This method, combining audio-visual tools with emotional context, successfully deepened the students' connection to Mandarin culture. Additionally, the school organized cultural immersion activities, including visits to local Taiwanese restaurants. Students progressed from reading menus to real-world ordering, gaining a deeper understanding of Taiwanese dining etiquette and lifestyle.
Principal's Encouragement: Building Cross-Ethnic Cultural Bridges
Jane Huang, Principal of Tzu Chi Academy North Toronto and the TCML lead, was deeply moved while presenting the graduation certificates. "I am incredibly proud of every student," she stated. "Your commitment to attending class despite fierce snowstorms is truly admirable. At TCML, we are not just teaching a language; we are building a diverse cultural platform that is cross-ethnic and as welcoming as a home." Principal Huang also announced that a "Taiwan Food Festival" will be held in Toronto on Saturday, September 19, 2026, and invited all graduates to participate and continue their cultural journey.
TCML at Tzu Chi Academy North Toronto is dedicated to providing professional, high-quality Mandarin education with distinctive Taiwanese characteristics. Designed for adults aged 18 and over, the program focuses on practical dialogue and traditional characters. Through diverse cultural experiences, students are led to appreciate the inclusivity and core values of Taiwanese society.
Upcoming Course Information: TCML at Tzu Chi Academy North Toronto is currently accepting applications for upcoming adult Mandarin classes. Whether you are a beginner or looking to refine your proficiency, we welcome you to join our community.
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Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
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Website: https://tzuchieast.ca/en/tcml-tzu-chi-academy-north-toronto/
A group photo of the TCML 2026 Winter Tuesday Class graduation. (3rd from left) Jane Huang, Principal of Tzu Chi Academy North Toronto, and (3rd from right) Teacher Angel Cheng share a happy moment with students holding their graduation certificates. 
Paul Lan, Director of the Culture Center of TECO in Toronto, delivers a speech and highly praises the joyful interactions between teachers and students.
Students take turns on stage to challenge Chinese tongue twisters. 
Students refine their Mandarin pronunciation by singing classic hits such as "Sweet Honey Honey," "The Plum Blossom," and "The Moon Represents My Heart."
Indian student Sohel Suterwala thoughtfully brings traditional Indian desserts to share with the class, highlighting the beautiful cross-cultural exchange at TCML. 
In addition to sharing traditional Indian desserts, student Sohel Suterwala expresses his gratitude to the teaching team using the Mandarin he has learned.
From reading menus to practical ordering, Tuesday class students gain a deep understanding of Taiwanese dining etiquette and lifestyle at the dinner table. 
From reading menus to practical ordering, Sunday class students gain a deep understanding of Taiwanese dining etiquette and lifestyle at the dinner table.
A warm gathering that unites everyone’s passion for promoting Taiwan's Mandarin language and culture.
Grand Opening of Taiwan Center for Mandarin Learning at Tzu Chi Academy North Toronto: A New Milestone in Adult Education After 13 Years of Community Service
2026/03/21 | Francis Leung / Report from Canada
The ceremony concludes successfully! Distinguished guests, volunteers, teachers, students, and attendees take a joyful group photo together to witness this historic moment.[Richmond Hill, ON] — Tzu Chi Academy North Toronto held a grand opening ceremony today, March 21, 2026, for the "Taiwan Center for Mandarin Learning" (TCML), a program specifically designed for adult learners aged 18 and older. Since deepening its roots in the local community in 2013, Tzu Chi Academy North Toronto has been a benchmark for promoting Mandarin education and Tzu Chi’s humanistic values. Today’s unveiling not only marks a milestone in deep collaboration with the Overseas Community Affairs Council (OCAC) of Republic of China (Taiwan) but also symbolizes the Academy's transition from acclaimed youth programs to lifelong education for all ages, completing the final piece of the community’s comprehensive learning vision.
Deeply Rooted in the Community: A New Era of All-Age Learning
Since its founding in 2013, the Academy has been a welcoming environment for youth aged four and up to grow and embrace their cultural heritage. However, as the demand for multiculturalism grows in Canadian society, the school has observed an equally urgent desire among adult residents to learn Mandarin and explore humanistic values.
"We heard the community's voice," Principal Jane Huang shared movingly during her speech. "This strong desire for language learning and cultural connection inspired the establishment of TCML. This center aims to create a dedicated space that transcends geographical boundaries and fulfills the concept of 'learning without borders. We sincerely welcome friends from all regions who are passionate about language and culture to join our vibrant lifelong learning community."
A Gathering of Distinguished Guests: Witnessing Cultural Exchange
The Plaque Unveiling Ceremony demonstrated remarkable community support and diplomatic significance, beginning with a solemn rendition of "O Canada." The highlight of the event took place at 3:15 PM, when the center was officially unveiled in the presence of approximately 80 distinguished guests. Following the unveiling, Principal Jane Huang and distinguished guests cut the exquisite cake celebrating the establishment of TCML, symbolizing a new milestone for Tzu Chi North Toronto in adult Chinese language education.
The event was highly regarded by all three levels of the Canadian government. Attendees included:
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TECO in Toronto: Director General Lawrence Liang, Culture Center Director Paul Lan, and Deputy Director Daphne Hsu. Director General Liang praised Tzu Chi's dedication to Mandarin education in his address.
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Community Leaders: OCAC Members Bill Giang and Maggie Lin, Senior Advisor Seng-Pai Kan, Advisor Felix Kuan, and Shan-Mei Shih, President of the Eastern Canada Chinese School Association.
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Tzu Chi Representatives: Sister Teresa Yee (Head of Tzu Chi North Toronto), and two Deputy CEOs of Tzu Chi Eastern Canada—Sister Sammi Shu-Fang Huang (MC) and Sister Julia Chang.
Deep Cultural Dialogue: Insights from Federal and Local Leaders
Speeches from various dignitaries added depth to the celebration of multicultural harmony:
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MP Costas Menegakis (Federal Member of Parliament): Offered his congratulations and strong support for TCML, acknowledging its contribution to the community’s diverse development.
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Mayor David West (City of Richmond Hill): Praised Tzu Chi’s long-standing community achievements. He emphasized that "language is the foundation of culture" and the ultimate way to understand a heritage, congratulating Principal Huang on the successful launch.
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Deputy Mayor Godwin Chan (City of Richmond Hill): Shared warmly that coming to Tzu Chi feels like "coming home." He noted that Mandarin is now the most widely spoken language in Richmond Hill after English and praised TCML for providing a quality environment for joyful learning.
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Councillor Scott Thompson (Ward 2): Shared the beauty of Canada as a nation that embraces diversity and social harmony.
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Councillor Castro Liu (Ward 3): Commended Tzu Chi’s passion and suggested that the City Council team should form a class to join TCML next year to show their support.
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Councillor Simon Cui (Ward 4): Quoted the proverb "it takes ten years to grow a tree but a hundred years to cultivate a person," acknowledging Tzu Chi's role in passing down heritage and wisdom.
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Councillor Michael Shiu (Ward 6): Praised TCML’s vision in welcoming students of all ethnic backgrounds, calling it a significant move for cultural preservation in the GTA.
During the ceremony, MP Costas Menegakis, Mayor David West, Deputy Mayor Godwin Chan, Regional Councillor Joe DiPaola, and Councillors Shiu, Thompson, Cui, and Liu jointly presented congratulatory certificates to Principal Jane Huang, highly recognizing Tzu Chi's contributions. Additionally, MPP Billy Pang and Markham Regional Councillor Alan Ho sent special congratulatory certificates to offer their sincere blessings.
Cross-Border Congratulations from OCAC
Adding to the celebration, OCAC Deputy Minister Yen-Hui Lee recorded a special congratulatory video from Taiwan, sharing her best wishes and witnessing this new milestone for Mandarin education in Eastern Canada. Furthermore, DaAi TV reported on TCML students participating in the Chinese New Year activities, showing adult learners exploring traditional customs and festive cuisine through a campus tour.
Watch the Video: 2026/03/21 (EN/CH Subtitles) TCML Tzu Chi Academy North Toronto Unveiling Ceremony - Congratulatory Message from Deputy Minister Yen-Hui Lee
Link: https://youtu.be/GhYoMRD_pPM
Emotional Resonance: Students Share Their Learning Journeys
Beyond the official support, the ceremony was filled with Tzu Chi’s unique humanistic warmth. A highlight of the event featured a group performance by adult students titled "The World is Like a Great Classroom," showcasing the program's solid educational foundation while filling the room with vibrant energy and heartfelt joy.
A particularly touching moment occurred when two adult students introduced themselves in Mandarin, sharing the challenges and rewards of their learning journey. Sohel Suterwala, an Indian-origin accountant, joyfully shared that his motivation for mastering the language is his Taiwanese girlfriend—a sweet confession that touched every heart in the room. Meanwhile, Dr. Stephen Kwan, a Registered Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) Practitioner in Canada, discussed the professional necessity of Mandarin and his commitment to perfecting his pronunciation, beautifully embodying the noble spirit of lifelong learning.
This inclusion of "student perspectives" not only attests to the profound social impact of Tzu Chi’s humanistic education but also vividly illustrates how TCML transforms language instruction into a meaningful and compassionate cultural dialogue. As the ceremony drew to a close, the adult students offered a soul-stirring rendition of the classic song "The Moon Represents My Heart," transcending linguistic and cultural barriers in a moment of pure, touching harmony.
Vision and Core Values: Nourishing the Mind with Gratitude, Respect, and Love
The unveiling ceremony concluded with a joyful group photo of all guests, volunteers, teachers, and students. Principal Huang emphasized that TCML’s curriculum will continue Master Cheng Yen’s teachings, viewing education as a process of "nourishing the mind." "At Tzu Chi, we uphold the core values of 'Gratitude, Respect, and Love'." she noted. "We offer more than just high-quality Mandarin instruction; we provide a warm home where students can connect and grow together."
Course Information & Registration
The Taiwan Center for Mandarin Learning (TCML) at Tzu Chi Academy North Toronto is now accepting registrations. We warmly invite adults interested in learning Mandarin and exploring diverse cultures to join us.
Address: 20 Wertheim Crt., Unit 21, Richmond Hill, ON
Contact: Principal Jane Shu-Chen Huang
Phone: 416-816-4103
Email:
This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
Website: https://www.tzuchieast.ca/en/tcml-tzu-chi-academy-north-toronto
Students lead a lively and heartwarming performance of "The World is Like a Big Classroom," bringing vibrant energy to the ceremony. 
Distinguished guests participate in the ribbon-cutting at the Taiwan Center for Mandarin Learning unveiling ceremony, opening a new chapter of cultural engagement in the community.
A highly anticipated historical moment! After the official plaque unveiling of the "Taiwan Center for Mandarin Learning," distinguished guests gather for a memorable group photo. 
Principal Jane Huang and special guests cut a beautiful celebratory cake, symbolizing Tzu Chi North Toronto's new milestone in adult Mandarin education.
Dignitaries presented congratulatory certificates in person to recognize Tzu Chi's contributions to promoting Mandarin education. (From left: Councillor Michael Shiu, Councillor Scott Thompson, Tzu Chi Sister Julia Chang, Councillor Simon Cui, MP Costas Menegakis, Deputy Mayor Godwin Chan, Principal Jane Huang, Mayor David West, Regional Councillor Joe DiPaola, and Councillor Castro Liu) 
Principal Jane Huang of Tzu Chi Academy North Toronto delivers her remarks, thanking all guests for their presence and sharing the original intention and vision behind establishing the TCML adult Mandarin program.
MP Costas Menegakis, Richmond Hill Mayor David West, and city councillors present congratulatory certificates, recognizing Tzu Chi’s dedication to Mandarin education and multiculturalism. 
Richmond Hill Mayor David West and city councillors gather together to offer their sincere congratulations on the establishment of the "Taiwan Center for Mandarin Learning."
Richmond Hill Mayor David West delivers a speech, highly praising Tzu Chi's remarkable community service over the years. He emphasized that language is the foundation of culture and a key to understanding different heritages, congratulating Principal Jane Huang and her team on the successful launch of TCML. 
Deputy Mayor Godwin Chan shares warmly that coming to Tzu Chi feels like "coming home." He noted that Mandarin has become the most widely spoken language in Richmond Hill after English and praised TCML for providing a high-quality learning environment, encouraging students to learn with joy and express the beauty of their culture.
Councillor Scott Thompson (Ward 2) delivers a heartfelt speech, sharing the beauty of Canada as a nation that embraces diversity and social harmony. He acknowledged that the establishment of TCML will further enrich the community's cultural vitality and expressed sincere gratitude to Tzu Chi for hosting such a meaningful celebration. 
Councillor Castro Liu offers his congratulations on the official launch of TCML, highly praising Tzu Chi North Toronto's passion and dedication to community service over the years. He humorously suggested to the gathered dignitaries that the city councillors should form a class to join TCML next year, demonstrating strong local government support for cultural education.
Richmond Hill Councillor Michael Shiu delivers a speech congratulating the official launch of TCML. He specifically praised TCML for welcoming students from diverse ethnic backgrounds, calling it a significant move to promote the Chinese language and heritage within the GTA, and encouraged everyone to learn Mandarin. 
Richmond Hill Councillor Simon Cui delivers a speech congratulating the official launch of TCML. Highlighting the proverb "it takes ten years to grow a tree but a hundred years to cultivate a person," Councillor Cui emphasized the vital role of education for future generations and the country's development. He praised Tzu Chi's dedication to preserving Chinese heritage and wisdom within the GTA, hoping these values will be passed down for generations to come 。
A special congratulatory video from OCAC Deputy Minister Yen-Hui Lee is played, sending warm blessings across the ocean for the launch of Eastern Canada's first TCML. 
Director General Lawrence Liang of the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office in Toronto delivers a speech, expressing high recognition and support for Tzu Chi North Toronto's dedication to Mandarin education.
Sohel Suterwala, an Indian-origin accountant, has been working hard to learn Mandarin for his Taiwanese girlfriend and joyfully shared his learning achievements at the TCML plaque unveiling ceremony. 
Stephen Kwan, a Registered Traditional Chinese Medicine Practitioner in Canada, shared the professional necessity of learning Mandarin. He expressed his commitment to perfecting his pronunciation, embodying the true spirit of lifelong learning.
Adult Mandarin students put their hearts into singing the classic song "The Moon Represents My Heart," showcasing their learning achievements across language and culture in a touching atmosphere. 
Da Ai TV reports on students from the Taiwan Center for Mandarin Learning (TCML) participating in the Lunar New Year event at Tzu Chi Academy North Toronto. During the campus open day tour, students explore Spring Festival traditions and "must-eat" festive dishes, personally experiencing the beauty of Chinese culture under the guidance of Principal Jane Huang.
A video showcasing the lessons and activities of the 2026 Winter Adult Mandarin Class is played at the ceremony, allowing guests to witness the students' enriching learning journey and fruitful results. 
Member of Parliament Costas Menegakis presents a congratulatory certificate to Principal Jane Huang, highly recognizing Tzu Chi North Toronto’s outstanding contributions to promoting Mandarin education and multiculturalism through its long-standing community service.
Tzu Chi North Toronto 2025 Year-End Blessing: Six Decades of Great Love Illuminates the Community, Converging Compassion to Warm the Winter
In celebration of Tzu Chi's 60th anniversary, the Tzu Chi North Toronto Office held its Year-End Blessing ceremony in Markham on January 24, 2026. (Photo by Francis Leung)
In 2026, Tzu Chi reaches a crucial milestone as it approaches its 60th anniversary. On the afternoon of January 24th, despite the outdoor temperature dropping to minus double digits, the Angus Glen Community Centre in Markham was filled with warmth and abundant goodwill. The Tzu Chi North Toronto Office grandly hosted the "2025 Year-End Blessing and Thanksgiving Ceremony" here. The event attracted over 230 guests and community members, along with dozens of Tzu Chi volunteers, gathering together to look back on the footprints of love over the past year and spread the core values of "Gratitude, Respect, and Love" to every corner of the community.
Never Forget the Original Intention: The "Bamboo Bank Era" Gathers Drops of Great Love
At 12:00 PM, volunteers arrived at the venue to set up with Tzu Chi's humanistic touch, highlighting the Year-End Blessing theme: "Never Forget the Original Intention of the Bamboo Bank Era." During the "Bamboo Banks Return Home" segment before the official start of the event, many attendees brought their heavy, coin-filled bamboo banks. Touched by the atmosphere, Roza, a Ukrainian refugee who has received long-term care from Tzu Chi, along with her nephew Pavlo and niece Darianna, also brought their bamboo banks full of love and personally poured them into the urn, demonstrating the beautiful cycle of love and kindness.
The event kicked off with the host, Sister Sammi Shu-Fang Huang. After the entire audience sang the Canadian national anthem, they watched the "2025 Tzu Chi North Toronto Year in Review" and the "Tzu Chi Global Year in Review," looking back at the footprints of love left by volunteers globally and in the local Canadian communities.
Executive Director Expresses Gratitude; Three Levels of Government Officials Gather to Witness
In his speech, the Executive Director of the Tzu Chi Foundation Canada, Eastern Office, Brother Andersen Chu, expressed three sincere thanks: gratitude for the guidance and partnership of the distinguished guests and collaborating organizations; gratitude for the loving donations and support of the donating members; and gratitude for the professional dedication and harmonious cooperation of all volunteers, who turned compassion into concrete actions to fulfill the mission of helping others.
The grand event was star-studded, with politicians from all three levels of Canadian government and community leaders attending to deliver speeches and present certificates of appreciation. Member of Parliament Vincent Ho, representing Richmond Hill South, shared that he grew up in a Buddhist family, emphasizing that being willing to pause and help those in need is not only a Buddhist value but also a core Canadian value. Member of Provincial Parliament Bill Pang expressed his gratitude on behalf of the provincial parliament and even sang a song on the spot to praise the volunteers' compassion. Richmond Hill Mayor David West highly commended the volunteers for responding to the community's truest needs in a "down-to-earth" manner, describing their dedication as "quiet" yet full of "power," and humorously wished everyone a happy new year in Mandarin with a "Richmond Hill accent." City Councillor Castro Liu humorously mentioned that he had already enrolled the Mayor in Tzu Chi's newly established TCML Adult Mandarin Class, looking forward to his improved Chinese next year. City Councillors Simon Cui and Michael Shiu also thanked Tzu Chi for bringing Great Love deep into Richmond Hill to benefit the surrounding people.
Markham Mayor Frank Scarpitti praised Tzu Chi's relief power based on "Gratitude, Respect, and Love," commending the volunteers for their rapid mobilization when disasters strike. City Councillor Amanda Collucci praised Tzu Chi for setting the best example of "giving" and "mutual assistance." City Councillor Isa Lee shared her personal experience of helping Tzu Chi transport supplies to the food bank. City Councillor Ritch Lau enthusiastically cheered "Tzu Chi is the best" in Mandarin, stating that Tzu Chi's dedication is a blessing to neighboring cities.
York Region District School Board (YRDSB) Trustee Michael Chen specially thanked Tzu Chi for its profound contributions in assisting food banks, domestic violence centers, and other areas.
Director Lawrence Yi-Peng Liang of the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office (TECO) in Toronto also attended the event in person, highly praising Tzu Chi as "Taiwan's pride and treasure." Director Liang specially thanked the Tzu Chi Academy North Toronto for establishing Canada's first Taiwan Center for Mandarin Learning (TCML), promising to continue providing necessary resources and deepening Taiwan-Canada cultural exchanges through cooperation with the Tzu Chi Foundation. Other distinguished guests witnessing the grand event included Director Paul Lan and Deputy Director Daphne Hsu of the Culture Centre, President Tim Chuang of the Taiwan Chambers of Commerce in Canada, and Chairwoman Katherine Yang of the International Mandarin Teachers Association of Canada.
Safeguarding Life: Donating $10,000 CAD to Markham Stouffville Hospital
Tzu Chi has long supported local healthcare. During the event, a check for $10,000 CAD was officially presented to Markham Stouffville Hospital. Vice President Rosanna Petricca, receiving the donation on behalf of the hospital, highly praised Tzu Chi volunteers as "invaluable treasures of the community." She pointed out that the Tzu Chi North Toronto Office's cumulative donations to the hospital over the years have reached nearly $150,000 CAD, which has been widely used to upgrade medical equipment in the cancer center, pediatrics, diagnostic services, and mental health, making Tzu Chi an indispensable and strong backbone for the hospital in safeguarding lives.
Warming the Winter: Social Welfare Partners Build a Network of Goodwill Together
Representatives from several long-term collaborating social welfare organizations also took the stage to share touching stories of Tzu Chi volunteers "fulfilling their missions." Marney Beck Robinson, representing the Richmond Hill Community Food Bank, pointed out that the number of families served daily has surged from over 30 in 2017 to over 85 recently. Without Tzu Chi's help in the warehouse and material donations, they would face immense operational pressure. Pamela Deveaux, Manager at the Yellow Brick House domestic violence shelter, movingly shared that many women and children flee abusive homes with nothing. Whenever she asks for help to prepare "transitional settlement kits," volunteers always manage to gather daily necessities and children's toys within a few days to help them rebuild their lives. Mary Ann Prolux, LOFT Coordinator, stated that since their partnership began in 2014, Tzu Chi has never disappointed her with the monthly "urgent wish lists" (such as sleeping bags, insect repellent, sunscreen, warm blankets, etc.), always delivering on the mission. Angela Kesthley, founder of Milkbag Unlimited, also attended the event, praising Tzu Chi members for "truly taking action" and walking down-to-earth among the people to meet the most urgent needs of the recipients.
Sister Teresa Yee, Director of the Tzu Chi North Toronto Office, gave a speech thanking everyone for braving the severe cold to attend. She emphasized that the promotion of the affairs over the past year was due to the dedication of countless volunteers regardless of the weather, as well as the selfless support of the donating members behind the scenes. This shared "compassion" is the greatest driving force supporting Tzu Chi to go further. Subsequently, the audience joyfully received Master Cheng Yen's blessing red envelopes and the "Blessing and Wisdom Rice" souvenirs. Amidst the sounds of prayer as everyone lit their heart lamps together, they sincerely prayed for the purification of human hearts, a harmonious society, and a world free of disasters.
Inheriting Humanistic Education and Promoting the TCML Adult Mandarin Class
Looking back at Tzu Chi's six decades, education has always been at its core. On stage, kindergarten students from the Tzu Chi Academy North Toronto performed the sign language song "Children of the Earth" with innocence. Second-grade students presented "The Three Nones of the World" (Universal No Enemies, No Strangers, No Regrets). Tzu Chi sisters interpreted "Gratitude, Respect, and Love" with solemn and graceful sign language, and their sincere performance deeply touched people's hearts.
Lighting the Heart Lamps, Praying for a Disaster-Free World
Towards the end of the event, while lighting the heart lamps, we looked back on the arduous journey Tzu Chi has traversed over the past sixty years, becoming even more certain of our expectations for the future. We are grateful for the long-term support and companionship of our members; because of you, this lamp of hope can continue to shine in Canada, warming the next six decades.
In the new year, let us continue to use Great Love as a bridge, gather our compassionate thoughts, and sincerely pray for social harmony and world peace.
Attendee Bing Yao shared his touching experience of attending for the first time: "There are still many people in this world who need our love and help. This event is an excellent transmission of values for children, teaching them to care for the people around them."
Pavlo, a Ukrainian refugee who has received Tzu Chi's care for about three years, also made an emotional confession: "If I hadn't met Tzu Chi volunteers, I might not be living here anymore. They gave me the motivation to stay here, work, and keep learning." (Note: Pavlo's family has not yet obtained permanent resident status and cannot afford expensive university tuition. After graduating from high school this year, he will look for a job first.)
In addition, students from the TCML Adult Mandarin Class also shared their own heartwarming stories. Sohel Suterwala, a registered accountant of Indian descent, brought his Taiwanese girlfriend to the Year-End Blessing; he is diligently learning Chinese to interact with her family. Jane, a student of Filipino descent, has already been volunteering at the North Toronto Liaison Office for two years, and she specially invited her Filipino friends that day to experience the warm Great Love of Tzu Chi people. Principal Jane Shu-Chen Huang also hopes to further promote the "TCML Municipal Class" in the future to foster multicultural integration.
A star-studded gathering. From left: TECO Toronto Director Lawrence Liang, Richmond Hill Mayor David West, Tzu Chi Eastern Canada CEO Andersen Chu, MPP Bill Pang, MP Vincent Ho, Tzu Chi Academy North Toronto Principal Jane Shu-Chen Huang, and Markham City Councillor Isa Lee. (Photo by Francis Leung) 
Playing the "2025 Tzu Chi North Toronto Year in Review." (Photo by Francis Leung)
The Mayor and City Councillors of Richmond Hill present certificates of appreciation to the Tzu Chi North Toronto Office. (Photo by Francis Leung) 
The Mayor and City Councillors of Markham present certificates of appreciation to the Tzu Chi North Toronto Office. (Photo by Francis Leung)
The Tzu Chi North Toronto Office donates a $10,000 CAD cheque to Markham Stouffville Hospital. The donation was accepted by Vice President Rosanna Petricca and Markham Mayor Frank Scarpitti. (Photo by Francis Leung) 
Ukrainian refugee Roza, along with her nephew Pavlo and niece Darianna, brought their bamboo banks full of love. (Photo by Kelly Zhen)
Markham Mayor Frank Scarpitti, along with Director Paul Lan and Deputy Director Daphne Hsu of the TECO Culture Centre, promoting the Taiwan Center for Mandarin Learning (TCML). 
Brother Andersen Chu, CEO of the Tzu Chi Foundation Canada, Eastern Office, expressed three sincere thanks in his speech. (Photo by Francis Leung)
Director Lawrence Liang of the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office (TECO) in Toronto highly praised Tzu Chi as "Taiwan's pride and treasure." (Photo by Francis Leung) 
Member of Parliament (MP) for Richmond Hill South, Vincent Ho, presented a congratulatory certificate. (Photo by Kelly Zhen)
Richmond Hill Mayor David West described the volunteers' dedication as "quiet" yet full of "power," calling it the best testament to putting "love" into their work. (Photo by Francis Leung) 
Angela Kesthley, founder of Milkbag Unlimited, shared that she is a loyal reader of Tzu Chi publications, often reading the magazines from cover to cover, and frequently praises Tzu Chi volunteers to her husband. (Photo by Francis Leung)
Mary Ann Prolux, representative of LOFT Street Outreach Services, emphasized that without Tzu Chi's full support, they would struggle to operate smoothly and care for the most vulnerable groups in the community. (Photo by Francis Leung) 
Marney Beck Robinson, representing the Richmond Hill Community Food Bank, expressed special gratitude for Tzu Chi volunteers' assistance in the warehouse and their material donations. (Photo by Francis Leung)
Pamela Deveaux, Manager at the Yellow Brick House domestic violence shelter, specially thanked Tzu Chi volunteers for not only regularly helping with spring and fall cleanups at the shelter but also demonstrating high efficiency in times of emergency. (Photo by Francis Leung) 
Sister Teresa Yee, Director of the Tzu Chi North Toronto Office, thanked everyone for braving the severe cold to attend the Year-End Blessing. She hopes to invite more kind-hearted people to join them in doing good deeds and creating blessings. (Photo by Francis Leung)
Kindergarten students performed the sign language song "Children of the Earth." (Photo by Kelly Zhen) 
Second-grade students presented the sign language performance of "The Three Nones of the World." (Photo by Michael Yee)
Tzu Chi sisters interpreted "Gratitude, Respect, and Love" with solemn and graceful sign language. (Photo by Francis Leung) 
Receiving Master Cheng Yen's blessing red envelopes. (Photo by Francis Leung)
Everyone was filled with joy upon receiving the "Blessing and Wisdom Rice" souvenirs. (Photo by Kelly Zhen) 
The audience sincerely lit their heart lamps and prayed for the purification of human hearts, a harmonious society, and a world free of disasters. (Photo by Kelly Zhen)
As the Year-End Blessing successfully concluded, attendees enjoyed various refreshments prepared by the volunteers. (Photo by Francis Leung) 
Markham Mayor Frank Scarpitti specially praised Tzu Chi volunteers for their rapid mobilization when disasters strike, demonstrating an admirable power of relief whether in local communities or internationally. (Photo by Kelly Zhen)
Attendee Bing Yao shared: "I am deeply moved. There are still so many people in this world who need our love and our help." (Photo by Kelly Zhen) 
Ukrainian refugee Pavlo expressed that Tzu Chi has helped him and his family, providing the motivation for him to stay, work, and continue learning here. (Photo by Kelly Zhen)
Markham Mayor Frank Scarpitti and City Councillor Isa Lee stayed at the venue until the very end to take a group photo with the volunteers. (Photo by Francis Leung)Tzu Chi's Year-End Blessing Ceremonies in Canada
In Canada, Tzu Chi held year-end blessing ceremonies, attended by government officials and members of the public. 加拿大慈濟志工分別在東西岸，舉辦歲末祝福，地方官員、議員都來共襄盛舉，表達感恩，也希望把慈濟的精神，傳遞到社區裡。 志工｜帕爾沃 Pavlo Volunteer 萬錦市長｜薛家平 Frank Scarpitti Mayor, Markham 民眾｜姚冰 Yao Bing Member of the public 慈濟加拿大分會執行長｜苗萬輝 Miao Wan hui CEO, Tzu Chi Canada 哥倫比亞省議員｜蘇妮塔 Sunita Dhir MLA, British Columbia
TCML at Tzu Chi Academy North Toronto Expands Adult Mandarin Classes — Director Lawrence Liang Visits to Encourage Learners
2026/01/11 | Jane Huang / Report from Canada
Director-General Lawrence Liang (back row, right 4) and Deputy Director Daphne Hsu (front row, right 1) presented students with Taiwan-themed gifts, including the 2026 “Discover Taiwan” planner, OCAC calendars, and Year of the Horse lanterns. Photo by: Francis LeungFour Unexpected Discoveries When Learning Mandarin in Toronto
In Toronto, when adults decide to learn a new language—such as Mandarin—the first thoughts that often come to mind are:
“Grammar is difficult.”
“I can’t memorize all the vocabulary.”
“I need to keep speaking and practicing all the time.”
Many of us assume that learning a language simply means sitting in a classroom, following the textbook, and completing lesson after lesson.
But what if learning Mandarin is not only about mastering a language—what if it becomes the beginning of a richer and more meaningful life journey?
In Toronto, there truly is a place where you can redefine what it means to “learn Mandarin.”
A School Rooted in Community Education: Education, Humanity, and Care
Since its establishment in 2013, Tzu Chi Academy North Toronto has been deeply rooted in language and character education, supporting students as they grow in both learning and personal development.Guided by three core principles—Education, Humanity, and Care—the school embraces the values of Gratitude, Respect, and Love as the foundation of its educational philosophy.
To respond to the growing demand for adult learning in the community, the school officially established the Taiwan Center for Mandarin Learning – Tzu Chi Academy North Toronto (TCML – Tzu Chi Academy, North Toronto) in November 2025. TCML offers Mandarin courses specially designed for adult learners aged 18 and above, with an emphasis on Traditional Chinese characters, creating a fresh and meaningful learning platform in the Greater Toronto Area.
If you are looking for a place that does more than “teach Chinese,” TCML may surprise you in ways you never expected.
1. Not Just a Language Class — A Deep Cultural Journey Through Taiwan
Once you step into TCML, you will quickly discover that Mandarin learning here is not about simply memorizing sentences. Instead, language becomes the pathway to truly understanding culture.
Our curriculum is built upon three key pillars:
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Practical Communication Skills
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Deep Cultural Understanding
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Interactive Learning Experience
This means students do not only learn standard textbook sentences, but also develop conversational skills that can be applied immediately in real life. More importantly, learners gain an understanding of the cultural context behind vocabulary—social etiquette, ways of thinking, and everyday customs.
TCML uses the official Overseas Community Affairs Council (OCAC) textbook series “Let’s Learn Mandarin (來！學華語)”, ensuring a professional and systematic learning structure. At the same time, teachers naturally integrate daily life situations and cultural celebrations into lessons—such as Lunar New Year traditions, Taiwanese festivals, and greeting etiquette—making the learning process an immersive cultural journey rather than dry vocabulary drills.
2. Learning Has No Age Limit — “It’s Never Too Late” Is Real Here
Many adults want to learn a language but often tell themselves:
“I’m too late. My memory isn’t good anymore.”
“I’m too busy with work.”
“I’m afraid I’ll learn too slowly…”
At TCML, however, learners are surrounded by a gentle yet firm belief:
Learning has no age limit.
Principal Jane Shu-Chen Huang shared during the welcome session:
“We believe that language learning is a lifelong journey, and it is never too late to begin.”
This is not just a slogan. It is the starting point of TCML’s course design.
The curriculum is planned around the pace and needs of adult learners, allowing each student to build confidence gradually, speak bravely, and move forward steadily—because choosing to begin is already something worth celebrating.
3. Your Classmates May Come From Anywhere in the World
Toronto is a multicultural city—and TCML classrooms are a reflection of that diversity.
You may meet learners such as:
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graduate students who once studied in Taiwan and wish to “pick up Mandarin again”
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second-generation immigrants who want deeper communication with Mandarin-speaking family members
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professionals looking to expand into Asian markets
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curious learners who love Taiwanese culture and want to better understand Asian societies
Here, students are not only learning Mandarin—they are practicing cross-cultural understanding.
Each class becomes an opportunity to learn how to interact with people from different backgrounds, understand differences, and appreciate one another.
This learning atmosphere is often far more valuable than grammar itself.
4. Here, Respect and Gratitude Matter as Much as Grammar
What makes TCML truly unique is that language education here is not isolated. It is deeply rooted in Tzu Chi’s humanistic educational spirit.
The values of Gratitude, Respect, and Love shape the entire learning environment.
At TCML, “respecting differences” is not a vague slogan—it is an attitude learners can practice through daily interaction:
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willingness to understand others
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not rushing to criticize
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not making quick judgments
Humanistic topics such as gender equality are also thoughtfully integrated into learning content—allowing language to become a tool of communication that is warmer, more respectful, and more empowering.
As Principal Huang shared:
“Learning a language is not only about vocabulary and sentence structures. It is a journey of understanding culture, connecting with others, and broadening perspectives.”
Official Recognition: Highly Praised by Toronto’s Educational Leaders
The establishment and strong launch of TCML North Toronto has also received high recognition from official representatives—adding credibility and community significance to the program.
On January 11, 2026, Director-General Lawrence Liang of the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office (TECO) in Toronto visited the classroom in person and encouraged learners, emphasizing that as global economies and technologies develop rapidly, Mandarin proficiency will become an even greater advantage. He praised Tzu Chi Academy North Toronto as a “model heritage school” in the Greater Toronto Area for promoting Traditional Chinese character education, noting that the school’s long-term dedication to education has become the solid foundation for TCML’s successful launch.
Director-General Liang also presented students with Taiwan-themed gifts including the 2026 “Discover Taiwan” planner, OCAC calendars, and festive Year of the Horse lanterns, bringing warm encouragement and blessings to the classroom.
Vision & Mission: A New Hub for Taiwan–Canada Cultural Exchange
TCML North Toronto aims to become more than a Mandarin program. It is positioned as an important bridge connecting Taiwan with Canada’s mainstream society.
TCML’s mission is clear:
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Promote Mandarin learning in Traditional Chinese characters
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Share the richness of Taiwanese culture
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Support the development of overseas Mandarin education
In the future, TCML will connect more cultural promotion activities and community exchange initiatives—so learning does not remain only in the classroom, but becomes part of wider society. Through this, TCML hopes to shorten the distance between diverse communities and create vibrant cultural interaction in Canada’s multicultural environment.
Conclusion: You’re Opening More Than a Language Door — You’re Beginning a Life Journey
Choosing to learn Mandarin at TCML is truly a gift to yourself.
What you gain is not only the ability to “speak Chinese,” but also a warm journey of:
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personal growth
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cultural connection
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community belonging
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expanded global perspectives
In the next stage of your life, what new window to the world would you like to open for yourself?
For more registration information, please visit:
https://www.tzuchieast.ca/en/tcml-tzu-chi-academy-north-toronto
Director-General Lawrence Liang (left) presented Principal Shu-Chen Huang (right) and students with the 2026 “Discover Taiwan” planner featuring Taiwan’s culture and scenery. Photo by: Francis Leung 
Director-General Lawrence Liang presented students with the 2026 “Discover Taiwan” planner featuring Taiwan’s culture and scenery. Photo by: Francis Leung
Principal Shu-Chen Huang noted the multicultural backgrounds of the students and encouraged respect for gender equality and diversity. Photo by: Francis Leung 
Director-General Lawrence Liang held a discussion session to share insights on Mandarin and traditional Chinese script, and encouraged students to join multicultural activities to enhance learning. Photo by: Francis Leung
Senior Mandarin teacher Shu-Fang Huang teaches Basic Class B. Photo by: Francis Leung 
Students took turns introducing themselves. Photo by: Francis Leung
Students listened attentively and enjoyed interactive learning with the teacher. Photo by: Francis Leung
A Warm Beginning Amid Snow and Ice: TCML Launches a New Chapter of Adult Mandarin Learning at Tzu Chi Academy North Toronto
2026/01/06 | Jane Shu-Chen Huang/ Report from Canada 
Paul Lan, Director of the Culture Centre of Taipei Economic and Cultural Office in Toronto, delivered an English presentation explaining the origins and educational vision of the Taiwan Center for Mandarin Learning (TCML). Photo by: Francis LeungOn January 6, 2026, Toronto was swept by heavy snow and freezing pellets under a bitterly cold winter night. Yet inside the Tzu Chi North Toronto Office, the atmosphere was warmly vibrant. Watching our very first group of students arrive on time—undeterred by the storm—to attend the opening ceremony of the Taiwan Center for Mandarin Learning (TCML) filled my heart with deep emotion and gratitude.
This was not merely the beginning of a new class. It marked a meaningful milestone: after years of cultivating education within the community, our school has officially entered an important new stage—adult Mandarin education.
Learning Has No Age Limit — Bringing Mandarin into Mainstream Life
I have always believed that learning has no age limit. The establishment of TCML was initiated in response to the growing demand for Mandarin learning within mainstream society. Unlike traditional heritage language schools focused mainly on children, TCML has a clear purpose: it is designed with adult learners’ needs in mind.
Whether learners are studying Mandarin for workplace communication, travel, family connections, or simply out of admiration for Taiwanese culture, we hope that within three months, students will be able to truly apply Mandarin in everyday life.
On the opening night, we were honoured to welcome Director Paul Lan and Deputy Director Daphne Hsu from the Culture Centre of Taipei Economic and Cultural Office in Toronto, who attended in person to show their support. Director Lan shared that TCML is promoted by the Overseas Community Affairs Council (OCAC) of Taiwan, with the goal of sharing a Mandarin learning model rooted in Taiwan’s values of openness, inclusiveness, and democracy.
Director Lan highlighted four core visions of TCML:
High-quality adult education
Tailored for busy adult learners—not only learning the language, but also understanding Taiwan’s creativity and modern society.
Communication and practicality first
Moving beyond memorization, TCML focuses on real-life conversational skills needed in daily life and professional settings.
Authentic Taiwan learning materials
Using teaching content rich in Taiwanese humanistic stories and cultural context, connecting language learning closely to real experiences.
Building bridges across borders
In Canada’s multicultural context, TCML provides a non-political, open, and friendly learning model that helps students strengthen global competitiveness.
The Taiwan calendars and Year of the Horse lantern gifts presented by Director Lan and Deputy Director Hsu symbolized Taiwan’s cultural blessings—lighting a warm and joyful start to our winter evening class.
Embracing Diversity and Sharing the Values of Gratitude, Respect, and Love
While planning this term, I reminded our team that we must create a learning environment that is friendly, equal, and inclusive. Within our school community, we actively promote values such as:
“Gender Equality Begins with You and Me”
“Embracing Diversity and Respecting Differences”
As I looked around the classroom, As I looked around the classroom, I felt deeply grateful. Our students come from diverse backgrounds—local Canadians, Indonesian learners, and even students from Africa. Their professional backgrounds range from working professionals and university PhD student to horse farm worker.
This diversity truly reflects Tzu Chi’s core spirit of “Gratitude, Respect, and Love.”
This term, our experienced Mandarin teachers Ms. Angel Cheng (An-Chi) and Ms. Sammi Huang (Shu-Fang) lead the Tuesday evening and Sunday afternoon classes respectively. Using the OCAC-published textbook series “Let’s Learn Mandarin (來！學華語)”, the curriculum integrates language learning with cultural understanding and daily conversational practice.
With fewer than 10 students per class, the small-class interactive format allows learning to happen naturally through engaging discussion, laughter, and meaningful exchanges.
Looking Ahead: Becoming a Bridge Between Cultures
For our school, 2026 will be a busy yet fulfilling year. We have already planned three terms of adult Mandarin programming for the year. While steadily developing beginner-level courses, my long-term goal is to gradually expand TCML into specialized programs for professionals in mainstream society—creating Professional Mandarin Courses tailored to different industries and needs.
In doing so, we hope the strength and beauty of Taiwanese Mandarin education will become an influential part of Canada’s multicultural foundation.
Gratitude and Invitation
I would like to sincerely thank all our students for your trust, and our teaching team for your dedication and hard work. TCML is not only a language learning center—it is a bridge, connecting Taiwan’s cultural aesthetics with local life in Canada.
We warmly invite more friends who are interested in Mandarin to join us on this learning journey. Are you ready to begin?
For registration details, please visit:
https://www.tzuchieast.ca/en/tcml-tzu-chi-academy-north-toronto
Principal Jane Huang welcomed students to TCML and introduced the development and core educational values of Tzu Chi Academy North Toronto. Photo by: Francis Leung 
Senior Mandarin teacher Angel Cheng warmly interacted with students in the Tuesday evening class. Photo by: Francis Leung
Senior Mandarin teacher Sammi Huang introduced herself as the instructor for the Sunday afternoon class. Photo by: Francis Leung 
Paul Lan, Director (right 6), and Deputy Director Daphne Hsu (left 5) visited the TCML classroom in person to greet and welcome the students. They also presented the OCAC 2026 calendar and a Year of the Horse lantern as gifts. Photo by: Francis Leung
On January 6, 2026, the TCML Adult Mandarin Program officially began its first day of classes. Despite the frigid temperatures, snow, and ice pellets across the Greater Toronto Area, Principal Jane Huang welcomed students with heartfelt gratitude. Photo by: Francis Leung 
On January 6, 2026, the TCML Adult Mandarin Program officially began its first day of classes. Despite the frigid temperatures, snow, and ice pellets across the Greater Toronto Area, Principal Jane Huang welcomed students with heartfelt gratitude. Photo by: Francis Leung
Tzu Chi North Toronto 2025 Year-End Blessing Ceremony
The Year-End Blessing Ceremony is one of Tzu Chi’s most meaningful annual events.
It is a time for us to look back at the compassionate efforts of our Tzu Chi North Toronto volunteers, along with Tzu Chi volunteers worldwide throughout 2025.
With a reverent heart, we also pray for purity of mind, harmony in society, and a world free of disasters.
Event Details:
Date: Saturday, January 24, 2026
Time: 2:30 PM – 4:30 PM (Reception begins at 2:00 PM)
Location: Angus Glen Community Centre – Activity Room 1
3990 Major Mackenzie Dr E, Markham, ON L6C 1P8
RSVP Link:
https://forms.gle/4UHgCffjWYvx58fj6
Wishing everyone a wonderful start to 2026, and we hope to see you at this meaningful gathering.
Warm regards,
Tzu Chi North Toronto
Discover the Joy of Mandarin: Winter 2026 Enrollment Now Open!
✨ Discover the Joy of Mandarin: Winter 2026 Enrollment Now Open! ✨
Unlock a new world of connection with the Taiwan Center for Mandarin Learning (TCML) – Tzu Chi Academy North Toronto. Whether you're looking to boost your career, travel with ease, or reconnect with your heritage, our 2026 Winter Semester is the perfect place to start.
Why Join Our Community?
- Real Talk: Focus on practical, daily conversation you can actually use.
- Deep Culture: Go beyond the words and understand the "why" behind the language.
- Personalized Care: Our small class sizes ensure you get the guidance you deserve.
Adult Mandarin Classes (18+)
Schedule at a Glance:
Basic Class A:
Tuesday Evening (7 PM – 10 PM)
Perfect for after-work enrichment (January 6 – March 24, 2026)
Basic Class B:
Sunday Afternoon (3 PM – 6 PM)
A great way to spend your weekend (January 11 – March 29, 2026)
Tuition & Contact: At just $360 for 12 weeks (including all materials), it’s an accessible way to invest in yourself this year.
New Year Discount: Save $60 if you enroll and complete payment by January 31, 2026.
Call us: (416) 816-4103
Email us:
This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
Visit our Website: https://www.tzuchieast.ca/en/tcml-tzu-chi-academy-north-toronto
Ready to begin?
Register Here via Google Form:
https://forms.gle/3ZEmQgmdwmL1hwdo6
Merry Christmas & Happy New Year｜2026 Adult Mandarin Classes – Winter Semester (18+)
As the Christmas and New Year season approaches, we invite you to give your family—or yourself—a meaningful gift that lasts a lifetime.
Taiwan Center for Mandarin Learning (TCML) – Tzu Chi Academy North Toronto proudly offers our 2026 Adult Mandarin Classes (18+) – Winter Semester, designed for adult learners who wish to begin or strengthen their Mandarin language journey in a warm, supportive, and community-oriented environment.
Our beginner programs focus on:
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Practical daily conversation
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Cultural understanding and real-life language use
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Small-class teaching with personalized guidance
Whether you are learning Mandarin for personal enrichment, travel, work, or cultural connection, our courses provide a welcoming space to learn with confidence and joy.
Program Schedule
Basic Class A – Tuesday Evening
January 6 – March 24, 2026
7 PM – 10 PM (12 weeks)
Basic Class B – Sunday Afternoon
January 11 – March 29, 2026
3 PM – 6 PM (12 weeks)
Location:
20 Wertheim Crt., Unit #21
Richmond Hill, Ontario, L4B 3A8
Tuition:
$360 per program (Textbook included)
Early Bird Discount:
Save $60 when you register by December 31, 2025
Contact Us:
Phone: (416) 816-4103
Email:
This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
Learn more:
https://www.tzuchieast.ca/en/tcml-tzu-chi-academy-north-toronto
Google Registration Form: