ABOUT US
The Aisin Gioro Arts & Cultural Heritage Society is a registered non-profit organization based in Canada, dedicated to the research, preservation, and promotion of diverse cultural traditions. With a particular focus on immigrant histories and the artistic expressions of multiethnic communities, the Society bridges cultural memory and contemporary expression across generations.
Through publishing, international collaborations, art prizes, public lectures, educational programs, and cross-cultural exhibitions, the Society supports cultural continuity in both historical and modern contexts.
As the founding and supporting organization behind the Aisin Gioro International Art Prize, the Society provides an open and professional platform for artists and cultural practitioners worldwide. Its initiatives encompass publishing, exhibitions, performances, lectures, and arts competitions—each aiming to encourage dialogue between inherited memory and contemporary thought.
The Society is governed by a board of professionals from the fields of art, education, music, and cultural research. All activities adhere to nonprofit principles and are committed to transparency, accountability, and the advancement of cultural stewardship.
Global Exchange in Arts and Culture
Our organization is committed to fostering cross-cultural dialogue in the arts and humanities, building bridges between Eastern and Western traditions. Through international lectures, collaborative exhibitions, research conversations, and residency programs, we invite artists, scholars, and cultural practitioners from around the world to engage with themes of memory, identity, and heritage.
Our future initiatives include:
• Co-hosting cultural talks and exhibitions with international institutions
• Inviting overseas artists for residencies and creative exchange
• Developing cross-cultural publishing and academic collaborations
• Expanding international art education and exchange opportunities for younger generations
We believe that truly vital cultural work must transcend language and borders, sustaining meaningful and sincere dialogue across time and place.
Board of Directors
Cecilia Aisin Gioro
Chair and Artistic Director
As a Founder, curator, art critic, and artist, Cecilia has long been committed to cross-cultural dialogue and the preservation of intangible heritage. As a member of the Aisin Gioro family, she brings intergenerational knowledge and a deep sense of cultural responsibility to the Society’s mission. She has led cultural programs in schools and communities, bringing traditional knowledge into dialogue with contemporary concerns—working to bridge tradition and the present, the individual and the world, through art and narrative.
Stephen Price
Vice Chair and Education Director
A professional Canadian educator and community leader, Stephen serves as Chair of both the West Vancouver Historical Society and the Sailing Club. With a strong commitment to cultural engagement and lifelong learning, he has led numerous initiatives that promote historical awareness, public education, and inclusive dialogue. He is dedicated to advancing multicultural platforms, with a particular interest in the role of cross-cultural narratives in shaping contemporary artistic and civic expression.
Alexander Sheversky
Visual Arts Director
Originally from Chișinău, Moldova, Alexander Sheversky is an internationally recognized realist painter known for his refined technique and classical approach. A graduate of the I.E. Repin Academy of Art, he blends traditional training with contemporary insight. In addition to his studio work, he has mentored emerging artists for over two decades. He brings to the Society a deep understanding of painterly traditions and serves as a juror for the Aisin Gioro International Art Prize.
Lily X.Jin
Program Director and Treasurer
Lily Jin is of Chinese Korean heritage, with a family lineage tracing back to the Manchu Eight Banners of Northeast Asia. She immigrated to Canada with her family during high school and later pursued her studies in the United Kingdom, earning a Bachelor of Science and a Master’s degree in Information Systems. She has been actively involved in school and community initiatives, with a longstanding focus on cultural exchange and cross-cultural dialogue. In addition to her board responsibilities, Lily supports the Society’s financial and administrative operations. She brings a multicultural perspective and a strong commitment to cultural understanding and heritage transmission.
Ali Asgari
Music Arts Director
Born into a musical family in Iran, Ali Asgari is a professional violinist, multi-instrumentalist, and certified violin instructor. As a full-time music educator, he has taught in both formal institutions and community programs, sharing his passion for performance, mentorship, and the healing power of music. His career spans Europe, Asia, and North America, where he has been actively involved in public performances and nonprofit arts initiatives. As a jury member for the Aisin Gioro International Art Prize in Sound Arts, he brings to the Society a deep commitment to inclusive arts education and the cultural transmission of music across generations.
Xuanzi Y.Cui
Cultural Director and Secretary
Xuanzi Y. Cui began her professional path as a dancer and designer, bringing an artistic perspective to her later work in senior service and cross-cultural operations. She served as Operations Director during the launch of an international luxury hotel in China, overseeing planning, guest experience, and service coordination. Her international experience shapes her approach to cultural leadership and community engagement. Within the Society, she links cultural vision with effective execution, applying her cross-cultural expertise to support non-profit initiatives and foster collaboration, contributing to the mission with professionalism and sincere commitment.
Leadership Team
Cecilia Aisin-Gioro
Artistic Director & Executive Director of Operations
Cecilia Aisin-Gioro provides leadership for the Society’s operations and artistic direction, overseeing the International Art Prize, publishing, curatorial projects, and program development. She integrates executive management with creative vision and international collaboration.
In addition to her role as Chair of the Board, she provides overall leadership for the Society’s daily operations and long-term artistic vision.
Cami Gliga
Music Outreach Lead
Cami Galig brings a professional background in arts programming and community engagement, with a long-standing commitment to music and cultural education. As Music Outreach Lead of the Aisin Gioro Arts & Cultural Heritage Society, she develops and coordinates music and cultural outreach programs for both youth and the wider public, fostering community participation and cross-cultural exchange through creative initiatives. She also serves as a juror for the Aisin Gioro International Art Prize, applying her expertise to support contemporary expression and the global reach of sound arts. She is a member of the jury panel for the Culture Voice Sound Arts Award.
Stephen Price
Education & External Relations Director
Guides the Society’s educational initiatives and external partnerships, including fundraising and donor relations. He also supports the development of programs within schools and communities, strengthening the Society’s presence in local and regional networks. His leadership connects the Society’s programs to broader communities and international networks.
In addition to his role as Vice Chair of the Board, he contributes to the Society’s educational direction and external relations.
Matt Bickel
Youth Engagement Lead
Matt Bickel is a Karate Canada Sandan (3rd degree) Black Belt, former Canadian National Champion, and international medalist. With over 15 years of teaching experience, he currently coaches provincial and national athletes and serves as a BC Provincial Team Coach. Known for his energetic and motivating style, he inspires children and youth to build confidence, set goals, and achieve success in martial arts and beyond. He is also deeply committed to community service, sharing his expertise to support youth development and cultural exchange. Within the Society, Matt is responsible for organizing youth engagement and international exchange programs.
Xuanzi Y.Cui
Cultural Exchange Lead
Xuanzi coordinates the Society’s international cultural exchange programs, including exhibitions and exchange delegations. She supports cross-border collaboration and fosters meaningful connections between communities.
In addition to her role as Secretary of the Board, she contributes cross-cultural expertise to the Society’s international programs and exchange initiatives.
Cynthia Liu
Operations & Community Lead
Cynthia Liu has many years of professional experience as an Assistant Controller and Human Resources Manager, specializing in administration and organizational management. She is also a certified parenting facilitator and TESOL teacher, bringing her dedication to education and guidance into both professional and community contexts. Beyond her career, she has been actively involved in volunteer services and community initiatives, supporting education, cultural exchange, and family programs. At the Society, she assists with daily operations, volunteer coordination, and community engagement, strengthening the Society’s connection with diverse communities.
Jinin Aisin-Gioro
Student Volunteer Leader
As a new-generation cultural heir of the Aisin Gioro family, Jinin is committed to guiding student volunteers with enthusiasm and a sense of responsibility, encouraging her peers to take part in community and cultural projects.
By engaging in volunteer service, supporting early childhood education programs, and helping youth participate in the Society’s community initiatives, she is gradually building her experience. She aspires to foster connections between cultural heritage and contemporary expression, promote teamwork among volunteers, and, by leading through example, inspire more young people to dedicate their time and talents in service of society, working together to create a more inclusive and vibrant future.
Contact us
Email: info@aisingiorosociety.com