In Toronto, a city where diverse cultures come together, the autumn sunshine fell like golden threads. On the afternoon of September 7, 2025, the parking lot at Bridlewood Mall in Scarborough was transformed into a sea of joy. The “Barbecue Fun Day” hosted by Toronto Mayor Olivia Chow opened here.
From 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., time seemed to stretch to the rhythm of joy. The tempting aroma of hamburgers and hot dogs filled the air. Children laughed and chased one another in the inflatable castle, their small faces decorated with colourful face-painting designs, while adults gathered around the mayor, exchanging warm smiles and sincere conversations. This was more than a simple barbecue gathering; it was a feast for the spirit of the community, reflecting Mayor Chow’s long-standing vision of “a more inclusive and caring Toronto.”
In an era overshadowed by inflation and heavy economic pressure, an event like this was like a ray of warm sunshine, brightening residents’ hearts and bringing together the harmonious strength of people from diverse ethnic backgrounds.
As Toronto’s 66th mayor, Ms. Olivia Chow has an inspiring life story. She officially took office on July 12, 2023, becoming the city’s first Asian mayor, and is widely known for her deep concern for social justice, housing, and public transit. Mayor Chow comes from a Hong Kong immigrant family, and the hardships she experienced in her early years gave her particular compassion for vulnerable groups. She previously served as a Toronto city councillor and a New Democratic Party Member of Parliament, and has long worked to advance fair policies. During her term, she has actively participated in community events, and this Barbecue Fun Day vividly demonstrated her approachable style. Through such interaction, she seeks to bring government and the public closer together and to make every resident feel cared for, heard, and supported. The purpose of the event was clear: to strengthen community unity and create a safe, affordable, and caring urban environment. Under Mayor Chow’s leadership, Toronto is gradually becoming a more inclusive home, and this Fun Day was a small-scale reflection of that vision. The event’s success depended on the hard work of the heroes behind the scenes, especially the volunteer team from the New Canadian Community Centre (NCCC).
They were selected by the Mayor’s Office as the main volunteer partner and entrusted with important responsibilities. The leadership team of New Canadian Community Centre (NCCC) placed special emphasis on promoting and organizing the event and arranged early for two groups of volunteers to distribute posters and flyers, expanding the event’s reach. Like diligent bees, these volunteers moved through community streets, delivering information about the event to households throughout the area.
