May is recognized across Canada as Asian Heritage Month, a time to honour the rich cultures, histories, and contributions of Canadians of Asian descent. For over two centuries, immigrants from East, South, Southeast, Western, and Central Asia have brought to Canada a vibrant diversity of languages, traditions, and values. This month offers a chance to reflect, learn, and celebrate that ongoing legacy.
As part of this celebration, we sat down with Seena Zhang, a UBC IT Client Services Manager with the Engagement Services Team, to hear how her Chinese heritage has shaped her identity and influenced her career.
Born in southern China, Seena immigrated to Canada in her early teens. Her upbringing was rooted in deep respect for elders, strong family ties, and an emphasis on perseverance and adaptability. These are values that continue to shape how she works and leads today.
“The idea of harmony within a community, and resolving conflict with calm and care, was something I learned early,” she shares.
The value of collective wisdom
Seena speaks with pride about the cultural principles she carries with her, particularly the focus on collaboration. “There’s a saying about the wisdom of a crowd,” she says. “My culture taught me that great results come not from one brilliant individual, but from people working together.”
That belief influences her approach to teamwork and leadership. In meetings or projects, she listens before speaking, encouraging space for every voice. She notes that this often leads to stronger relationships and more thoughtful decisions.
Lifelong learning, a core value
Seena credits her heritage for instilling in her a strong work ethic and a high regard for education. “I’m always looking to learn something new,” she says. “It’s shaped my mindset as a lifelong learner.”
Advice to young professionals
For young Asian professionals starting out in tech or communications, Seena offers advice rooted in self-assurance: “Embrace your cultural background as a strength. It gives you a unique perspective. Don’t feel the need to compete with others, just focus on your own path and what you bring to the table.”
Leading with Harmony
In her work, Seena often draws on the principle of harmony, a value her family emphasized. “Harmony was one of my top traits in a strengths assessment,” she reflects. “At first, I didn’t understand why. But I see, it comes directly from how I was raised.”
For her, leading a team means fostering an inclusive environment where everyone feels heard and respected. It’s an approach that builds trust, alignment, and shared purpose echoing the very values that her heritage instilled.
As workplaces across Canada talk more about diversity, equity, and inclusion, stories like Seena’s remind us of what that looks like. This Asian Heritage Month, we recognize history and honor presence.
