About the Association
Rooted in heritage.
Open to the world.
We are a new association with an old idea: that the table is where understanding begins.
Who we are
A Canadian home for the world’s most convivial conversation.
The Canada-China Culinary Cultural Exchange Association is a Markham-based cultural association. We bring together the people who grow, cook, host, write about and share food across two countries—and create the conditions for meaningful exchange.
Our work sits at the intersection of culture, craft and community. We believe that a shared meal can do what a press release cannot: make difference feel familiar, and make collaboration feel natural.
One connection.
We believe that real culinary exchange begins when curiosity becomes conversation—and conversation becomes trust.
Canada is a country of many cultures. China is a civilisation carried through its kitchens, its seasons and its tables. Between them sits a simple idea: that the most human conversations often begin over a meal.
Our mission is to turn that idea into a practice. We convene chefs, hosts, entrepreneurs, scholars and neighbours. We create room for technique to be shared, for stories to be heard, and for people to see one another beyond the familiar labels of “East” and “West.”
From tradition to innovation, from the community table to the wider world, we want food to become a language of cultural exchange—and culture to become a bridge between two peoples.
“Food is not only a way of life. It is a way of speaking across languages, places and cultures.”Lin Zongcheng, Founder & President
Our story
A new association,
a long-held belief.
The Association was founded on 17 May 2026 by Lin Zongcheng, whose career in hospitality has been built on a simple observation: the table changes what people are willing to hear.
A dish, a cup of tea, a banquet—these are not small things. They are the beginning of understanding and trust. The Association was created to turn that experience and those relationships into a lasting platform for cultural exchange between Canada and China.
“A table can hold more than a meal. It can hold a relationship.”Lin Zongcheng, Founder & President
- Founded
- 17 May 2026
- Founder
- Lin Zongcheng
- Based in
- Markham, ON
- First programme
- Canada-China Culinary Exchange
What guides us
Seven values.
One table.
These commitments shape who we invite, how we host, and what we hope to leave behind.
Cultural Exchange
We approach every table with curiosity. By sharing recipes, rituals and histories, we help Canadians and Chinese communities see one another more clearly—and find common ground in what is already familiar.
Heritage & Innovation
Tradition is not a museum piece. We honour the techniques and stories passed down through generations while making room for new ideas, new ingredients and new forms.
Openness & Inclusion
Exchange belongs to everyone—not only chefs or officials. We welcome different backgrounds, ages and perspectives, and design spaces where people can participate with confidence.
Community & Public Benefit
We measure success by what returns to the community: stronger local food culture, new opportunities for young people, and cultural programming that is open and useful.
Connection
A meal is one of the oldest technologies for building trust. We create the conditions for relationships to begin, deepen and endure.
Responsibility & Respect
We credit the people and traditions behind every dish. We work with honesty, cultural humility and care for the communities we represent.
Global Perspective
Rooted in Markham, we look outward—learning from food cultures around the world and bringing that perspective home.
Bring your table to ours.
We are always glad to meet people who believe food can do more.
Get Involved →