To Haodong, the roles of music, culture, and creative expression cannot be overemphasized. Having worked extensively as a musician, stage performer, and poet, Haodong has seen firsthand how the arts and culture bring people together in an unparalleled manner and how they form the foundation of community. Moreover, his involvement in the Youth Musician Commission at Massey Hall has allowed him to understand the power of youth advocacy when it comes to the arts. He strives to ensure that the youth voice is heard across all of Toronto’s artistic and cultural events. Though little is guaranteed in life, Haodong is certain about one thing: Youth have an extraordinary ability to make art flourish.