By 
TORONTO, Ontario — Stepping out from behind the lens and away from strict deadlines, Toronto’s Chinese media community gathered in North York on August 29 for the Chinese Media Professionals Association (Toronto) Second Karaoke Competition. Under the theme “Bridging Through Song, Connecting Through Voice,” the late-summer event brought together journalists, content creators, and publishing professionals for an afternoon of music and camaraderie.
Hosted by association members Anna and Dolly, the afternoon featured performances from 18 contestants spanning classic ballads, pop hits, and high-energy numbers. A five-member panel of local music professionals—Lu Cheng, Fu Chen, Lin Xidan, Yue Xin, and He Zixiao—evaluated the performances.
Following competitive rounds and feedback from panel chair Lu Cheng, top honours were awarded:
Gold Award: Kayla Tian, Lai Chen, and Lilian Liang (presented by event sponsor Michael Wang, President of Nature Financial Group)
Silver Award: Sun Jin, Han Dongxun, and Jacee Qian
Bronze Award: Liu Chenxi, Peter Huang, Chen Rong, and Lei Ming
Excellence Award: Liu Yuebai, Dolly Shao, Dai Guangqian, John Wang, Leo Song, Lun Du, and Kevin Han
A highlight of the event was the presentation of a Lifetime Achievement Award to Joseph Lau, one of the association’s co-founders, on the occasion of his retirement. Presenting the honour, current president Liu Chenxi praised his dedication to building the organization from the ground up. In his acceptance speech, Joseph Lau recalled the association’s 2008 origins during community relief efforts for the Wenchuan earthquake, offering a reflective moment for longtime colleagues.
“We want to provide a stage for our peers to showcase their talents, but more importantly, we hope these relaxed gatherings help strengthen the bonds among us beyond the workplace,” noted Liu Chenxi in her opening remarks.
The afternoon concluded with a group photograph, marking a brief pause from newsroom routines to celebrate community and shared passion.
