List any specialized training or educational background you have pursued (e.g., music, sport, drama, academic degrees, professional development, etc.).

Bilingual in English and Mandarin Chinese, I hold both a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Architecture from the University of Waterloo, where I developed strong creative design and critical thinking skills.

 

I began studying piano at the age of four, earning RCM Grade 10 in piano performance and Grade 8 in music theory, and received the First Place Award at the Peel Music Festival hosted by The Royal Conservatory of Music. I later taught piano, sharing my passion for music with young students.

 

I was trained in vocal performance, jazz dance, and acting at the Etobicoke School of the Arts Musical Theatre program. I was also trained as a competitive swimmer and worked as a lifeguard, developing discipline and teamwork skills.

 

What’s something about you that doesn’t come across in photos or on stage?Something that doesn’t immediately come across in photos and on stage is how introspective and analytical I am. I spend a lot of time thinking about people, relationships, and the environments I move through. Many areas of my life have trained me to notice smaller details and patterns, and that awareness carries into how I make decisions and approach life. I care about understanding the purpose and my “why” behind everything, so I can come out of it a better person than I was yesterday.​

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What personal experience has influenced the way you see the world?

One of the most defining influences in my life was moving to Canada with my mother to begin again. Starting over in a new country meant learning a new language, a new culture, and rebuilding from the ground up. Living between cultures shaped how I observe the world. I became more attentive to people who felt unseen, aware of environments and behaviours that can make one feel excluded, and noticed the ways small gestures of kindness can make a difference. I learned to observe in such a way because I learned how fragile security can be, and how powerful a sense of dignity and belonging truly are. These experiences continue to guide my values and beliefs in work that help people feel safe, respected, and empowered to grow.

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What motivates you when no one is watching?

I am driven by my commitment to become a stronger and more grounded version of myself each day, so I can positively impact those around me. I find the most fulfillment in learning, deepening meaningful relationships, and contributing in ways big and small, because even the smallest hope can create big results.

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What advice would you give your younger self?I would gently ask her to be kinder to herself, to trust her intuition and voice. There is no need to fit into anyone else’s expectations to be worthy. Confidence doesn’t come from being chosen by others, it only comes when she learns to show up for herself and validate from within. I would also tell her to just be herself and not be afraid of stepping outside her comfort zone, because growth happens outside of comfort.​

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What does leadership look like in your day-to-day life?

Leadership is a continuous process of learning about myself and about the people around me. It isn’t defined by a title or being in charge; rather, it’s about taking initiative to create an environment where everyone feels safe and heard. To be a leader is to be a learner who listens and understands different perspectives, so they can provide the support that moves everyone forward together.

 

If there were no limitations, what would your ideal or “dream” career look like?

If there were no limitations, my dream career would meet at the intersection of creativity and well-being. I would lead projects that shape environments centred on mental and physical health, focusing on spaces that genuinely improve how people feel, connect, and heal. Alongside that, I would grow Studio Yidan and The Graceful Mind into platforms and communities that help people feel grounded, seen, and inspired to live more intentionally.

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List any volunteering you have done.

I have volunteered at veterinary clinics, assisting with pet care and clinical procedures, supporting staff and clients in high-stress environments where compassion and attentiveness matter deeply.

 

I have also volunteered with community health centres, helping organize children’s summer camps and family programming that foster safe, supportive spaces for connection and growth.

 

In addition, I regularly volunteer through community performances and exhibitions to share music and creativity, and I have supported local schools through school supply donations and ESL assistance to improve access to education at a grassroots level.

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What kind of impact do you hope to make through Miss International Canada?

Through Miss International Canada, I hope to further advocate for well-being-centred environments in the spaces we design, the communities we build, and the conversations we lead. My work and values align with global priorities around health, social equity, and sustainable communities, and I hope to use this platform to promote empathy, access, and meaningful impact through thoughtful leadership.

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What does representing Canada mean to you?

Representing Canada means honouring the diversity, courteousness, and openness that define this country. Having grown up between cultures, I have learned that understanding and respecting differences can enrich experiences and bring people closer. To me, representing Canada is about embodying these traits and showing them to everyone I meet through kindness and authenticity.