MEET KIM, THE FOUNDER OF CANTONESE & TOISAN SOCIETY.

Kim started the society in March 2003 after seeing two things: Cantonese was often being overlooked or devalued, and there were very few places for people to learn it. She wanted to create a space where Cantonese and Toisan language, history, and contributions could be preserved, promoted, and passed on.

Born and raised on Pell Street in NYC’s historic Chinatown, Kim’s connection to the community runs deep. With a father from Toisan, Guangdong, China, and a mother from Hong Kong with Toisan roots, she developed a lifelong passion for preserving Cantonese and Toisan language and culture.

Through free language lessons, socials, and the Cantonese & Toisan American Contributions and Language Exhibit, Kim continues to highlight the stories of Cantonese and Toisan people, from early Chinese immigrants from Guangdong who helped build America’s railroads to generations of Chinese Americans who have served in the U.S. military.

Her passion for Manhattan’s Chinatown, helping others in need, volunteerism, and bringing people together helped shape the society into what it is today.

At the heart of her work is connection: helping people meet, learn, build friendships, and carry Cantonese and Toisan language and heritage forward.

Thank you, Kim, for creating CANTONESE & TOISAN SOCIETY ❤️

by Kelly Wu