CNIW Community Wellness & Vaccine Day 2025: A Day of Health, Heritage, and Human Connection
Markham, ON – May 3, 2025 — The CNIW Community Wellness & Vaccine Day, held at Xinfllix Auditorium in Markham, was a vibrant and meaningful event that brought together healthcare, culture, education, and community collaboration. Hosted by the Canadian Network for Immigrant Wellness (CNIW) and supported by the Public Health Agency of Canada, the event was part of the ongoing “Healthy Moms, Healthy Babies” campaign to promote wellness and vaccine awareness in the immigrant community.
🎭 A Dynamic Opening: Culture Meets Community
The day began with a spirited opening performance of "Yellow Earth Song" by the Hua Feng Yun Art Group, setting the tone for a celebration of both health and heritage. Emcee remarks were followed by a keynote address and immunization workshop by Dr. Peizhong Wang, who offered a clear, research-backed overview on vaccines and immunity, particularly for pregnant women and families.
💡 Interactive Learning and CNIW Initiatives
CNIW’s Han Xiao introduced the audience to the organization’s mission and led a light-hearted interactive quiz based on the CNIW Interactive Learning Module. This digital platform, designed to engage participants in vaccine and health literacy, was enthusiastically received, with attendees trying to answer quiz questions in real time.
👥 Workshops, Wellness & Recognition
Attendees were treated to a full spectrum of activities, including:
- Pilates for Pregnancy
- Ba Duan Jin & Mindful Tai Chi Ball Practice by Jingxin Academy
- Senior Nutrition Workshop
- Creative Arts Therapy
The event also recognized key cultural leaders and partner organizations through a series of ceremonial addresses and certificate presentations, featuring:
- OYMI, My Love Choir, LEGAC Center, Toronto Chinese Drama Troupe, and more
- Remarks and artistic insights from leaders such as Linda Li, Anna Bian, and Laura Wu
- A celebratory group photo of over 20 partner organizations including TJPC, CCAA, Active Pilates, and the Chinese Culture and Arts Association
👨⚕️ Free Health Services & Community Booths
CNIW partnered with a wide range of health professionals and volunteers to offer:
- Free health consultations in Traditional Chinese Medicine, Dental, Skin Care, Mental Health, and more
- Interactive booths on Immunization, Prenatal Care, Physical Wellness, and Nutrition
- Informational resources on cancer prevention, mental health support, and community safety
🍱 Lunch & Learning
Participants enjoyed a free lunch and networking session, during which the venue also screened Asian Heritage Month’s featured film:
📽️ “Exclusion”, highlighting the challenges and history of the Chinese community in Canada.
🎉 More Cultural Performances
The Starlight Association of Markham closed the cultural portion with an energetic performance of “Xinjiang Folk Dance” and the earlier “Drunken Dreams” by Hua Feng Yun dancers added poetic elegance to the day.
🤝 A Day That Reflected Shared Purpose
The success of the day was made possible by the collaboration of over 40 partner organizations and 200 participants, including government officials, doctors, dietitians, therapists, community leaders, seniors arts groups, and community members. Their efforts reflect CNIW’s mission to deliver equitable, accessible, and culturally informed health resources for immigrant populations in the Greater Toronto Area.
