About

History of Taste of Asia

The Taste of Asia Festival has evolved over the past two decades into one of Canada’s most beloved and anticipated cultural events. What started during the 2003 SARS outbreak as a way for the Asian community to showcase their rich culture has blossomed into Canada’s largest Asian festival, drawing over 200,000 visitors throughout the years and gaining recognition across the country and beyond.

In the beginning, Taste of Asia was a celebration primarily for the Asian community, offering a platform to showcase traditions, foods, and performances. Over time, however, the event has expanded its reach, attracting people from all ethnic backgrounds. What was once an event mostly attended by Asians has now become a gathering place for all, embodying the multicultural spirit of Canada and uniting individuals from diverse cultures in a shared celebration of food, art, and community.

The festival continues to thrive thanks to the support of the City of Markham, F.C.C.M., APMC, and various government partners. It remains a vibrant event that offers something for everyone—from delicious fusion cuisine to cultural performances, making it a must-visit destination for all who wish to experience Canada’s multicultural mosaic.

Past highlights include breathtaking cultural performances, record-breaking attendance, and the participation of world-class food vendors. The festival has even had the honor of hosting distinguished guests, such as the Prime Minister of Canada, making it a significant hub for cultural exchange and connection.

Taste of Asia has become a place where communities from all walks of life come together to celebrate unity, diversity, and the joy of shared experiences. Whether you’re a visitor, a business, or a community member, we welcome you to join us in celebrating the beauty of cultural connection.

Board of Directors

Founder and Chairman

Dr. Ken Ng

Chairman of the Federation of Chinese Canadians in Markham/Taste Of Asia

Dr. Ken Ng has been a family physician practicing in Markham and Toronto since 1981 and has served as the chairman of the Federation of Chinese Canadians in Markham since 1992. His vision of Taste of Asia began during the 2003 SARS outbreak where Dr. Ng and his late wife wished to help boost the local economy. 

Co-Chair

Frank Scarpitti

Mayor of Markham

As the mayor of Markham, Frank Scarpitti has continually been an active member in promoting various cultures in our community. Without his support, Taste of Asia would not have been the same event.

Co-Chair

Mobeen Khaja

President of the Association of Progressive Muslims of Canada

Taste of Asia is a unique partnership between APMC and FCCM. As the president of the Association of Progressive Muslims of Canada, Mobeen Khaja has been an important force in the success of this event.

Project Committee

Ottawa Parliament National Launch Reception

Hon. Mary Ng, M.P.; Paul Chiang, M.P.; Jean Yip, M.P. 

Sponsorship Committee

Isa Lee, Amanda Yeung Collucci, Lili Lee, Sandra Tan, Alan Ho, Ritch Lau, Lola Adeniyi, Robyn Small, Thomas Herbert, Cameron Rice, Jill Zou, Peggy Chan

Asialicious Program

Catherine Hou, Isa Lee, Amanda Collucci, Harriet Ho, Patrick Yung

Web and Graphic Designer

Harry Lin, Michelle He

Health Services

Total Health Management Inc., Dr. Dennis Woo

Maintenance

The New Canadian Cleaning COmpany

Executive Coordinators

Mandy Ou, Harriet Ho, Suzanne Wong, Wilfred Lam, Harry Lin, Tianjing Qiu

Production Consultants

Perry Chan, Ben Leung

Program Committee

Mandy Ou, Kenneth Cheung, Isa Lee, Ritch Lau, Sharmi Joshi, Harriet Ho, Rosemer Enverga, Karen Tan, Perry Chan, Patrick Yung, Anson Wong, Rem Koon

PR & Social Media Coordinators

Sandra Tam, Minnie Wang, Catherine Hou, Jacqueline Yin, Jasmine Zhou, Raymond Liang, Alfred Kwan

Road and Facility

Tony Bonilla, Albert Luu, Jason Chan

Masters of Ceremony

Frank Scarpitti, Sandra Yeung Racco, Ritch Lau, Isa Lee, Amanda Yeung Collucci

Volunteer Coordinators

Alicia Chiu, Kenneth Ng, Harry Lin, Tianjing Qiu, Mandy Ou, Albert Luu, 8th Markham Scouts: Peck Yap, Carmen Wu, Desmond Wong, Danny Cheng

Hospitality

Patrick Yung, Isa Lee, Harriet Ho

Legal Advisors

Newton Wong, Virginia Ng

Other Key Committee Members

Renee Zhang, Koby Yung, Mansur Kanchwalla, Zul Kassamali, Najmul Siddiqui, Yumna Siddiqi, Ammar Sikander, Maggie Cheung, Roberto Wu, Raymond Liang, Nancy  Chan, Thomas Qu, Teresa Yeung, Earl Smith, Michael Chan, Nancy Siew, Kwame Agyei, David Flood, Steve Galonomas, Warren Owen