The University of Manitoba has recognized the contributions and achievements of our President and CEO by naming a newly constructed global lounge the “Tony T.K. Lau Global Lounge”. The attached article outlines the long journey of Mr. Lau, the Founder of Tony Lau Insurance: from poverty to success. After high school in Hong Kong he worked for two years saving money to study in Canada. He received not even a penny from his family. After earning his Master’s degree, Mr. Lau gave up his pursuit of a doctorate degree to support his aging parents, and help out his six siblings. Eventually, Mr. Lau sponsored four of his siblings to immigrate to Canada.

Mr. Lau’s motto is: “If there are more givers than takers, the world will be a much better place.”

Mr. Lau has been donating to various charities, including his two alma maters, the University of Manitoba and the University of Toronto. He believes that everyone can be successful in their jobs by working hard, working smart, and staying focused. You can all succeed in whatever you do by applying those principles.

We are thrilled to invite you to the opening of the Tony T.K. Lau Global Lounge at the International Centre!

This new student lounge stands as a testament to the incredible contributions of Tony T.K. Lau, a distinguished alumnus whose legacy of support and philanthropy has greatly enriched our university community. As a past President of the International Students’ Organization (1971-1972) and the co-founder and current President of the University of Manitoba Chinese Alumni Association of Canada, Tony has consistently demonstrated a profound commitment to fostering cultural understanding and aiding international students.

In recognition of the support he received during his time as an international student and his dedication to giving back, Tony established the Tony T.K. Lau Awards for Volunteer Service to International Students. This fund honors student volunteers who make significant contributions to the international student community, thereby perpetuating a cycle of support and goodwill.

Tony’s unwavering dedication is further exemplified by his most recent generous pledge of $100,000—$75,000 of which supports the newly established International Centre Gifts for Operating Fund, and $25,000 designated to the Tony T.K. Lau Awards for Volunteer Service to International Students. His philanthropy, including over $300,000 donated over the past 25 years, has been instrumental in advancing academic excellence and cultural diversity at our university.

Join us in celebrating the opening of this special space, which will serve as a hub for international students to connect, collaborate, and thrive. Your presence will honor Tony’s remarkable legacy and support our continued efforts to nurture a vibrant and inclusive university community.

Please RSVP by September 16 at the link below.

Link: https://forms.office.com/r/5jagYwT9Ug?origin=lprLink

We look forward to celebrating this significant milestone with you.
Warm regards,

Fanny Levy
Director, International Centre
Student Engagement and Success
University of Manitoba | 541 UMSU University Centre | Winnipeg MB, R3T 2N2
(P) 204-474-8502 | (Cell) 431-374-6044 I umanitoba.ca/international
Pronouns: She/Her

Follow us on Instagram @um.international

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