Between work and exploring the world, Ms. Jennifer Chen always finds time to help others. Her appreciation for life and adventure is admirable and evident in everything she says.
Please tell us a bit about your professional work?
I was born and raised in Taiwan and knew at a very young age that eventually I would immigrate to a different country. I wasn’t sure where, but took my time researching options. Before I made the decision to move to Canada, I had already traveled to over 60 countries, both for work and personal reasons. My family never quite understood why out of all the places in the world I chose here, but I had promised myself that I would move to a place where I would live and continue to learn – and that’s exactly what I did! I’ve learned everything from how to start a new life in a country where I knew no one, to learning how to drive in the snow – I have still not mastered the latter.
What do you do outside of work for fun?
Travel! To date, I have traveled to more than 80 countries and plan on visiting many more to come. This summer I will be heading back to Europe and then jetting off to Russia in the fall. I have a personal goal of taking at least two trips a year. It’s healthy to get away and explore. The more you travel, the more you open your eyes and learn to appreciate.
No matter how busy I am with work or travel, I always make time to give back to our community. Last week, I received an award from the Taiwanese Economic Culture Office for my assistance in helping Canadian students apply for post-secondary education in Taiwan. I also volunteer weekly at S.U.C.C.E.S.S. providing support to new immigrants from China who are trying to make a life for themselves in Canada. I feel very lucky to have the ability to help others.
Favourite place you’ve traveled to?
That is a hard question to answer. One area does come to mind though and that is the Galápagos Islands, which are a group of islands off the coast of Ecuador. I also really enjoyed my time over Christmas in Bora Bora. It was there that I experienced traveling under water in a submarine scooter. Look it up! There are only two countries in the world that currently have them.
Do you take advantage of TCC’s affiliate club network when you travel?
Yes! I visit all of TCC’s affiliate clubs in Hong Kong regularly. Hong Kong has some incredible clubs!
Why did you become a member of Terminal City Club?
Having lived and conducted business in Taiwan, Hong Kong and other major cities in China, I am very familiar with private clubs, and have visited many in the past. When I first came to Vancouver the idea of joining a private club was on the top of my list. The connection to TCC was made through my neighbour who was also a member and offered to sponsor me. I knew I had made the right choice when I saw the fitness centre, in particular the swimming pool. I am an active user of our fitness centre.
What do you enjoy the most about the Club?
I like to live a very low key lifestyle so I love belonging to a club where I can go unwind, exercise and separate from my busy work life. Some members use the Club for business, personal reasons or both, but I prefer to use it for my social life only. I love the facilities on the third floor and appreciate the staff members who work up there. They work very hard to take care of our equipment and us members. It is the level of service and atmosphere at the Club that I love. Alex in The Grill always remembers what foods I like and customizes dishes specifically for me, without me even asking!
What would you say to someone considering joining TCC?
If you are looking for a fitness centre at your club, TCC is the place for you. Unlike some clubs, we are also very lucky to have underground parking available in our building. I always prefer to go somewhere with underground parking than without in a city that rains as much as Vancouver does!
What is one piece of advice you would like to share with your fellow members?
Enjoy your club and appreciate that you have a place where you belong.
