On Saturday, May 24, Pacific FC welcomes Forge FC to Starlight Stadium for a marquee Canadian Premier League clash kicking off at 2:00 PM. But this match is more than just a battle on the pitch—it's also a celebration of Asian Heritage Month, honouring the vibrant cultures and communities that make Vancouver Island and Canada so special.
Pacific FC is proud to recognize and celebrate the Asian heritage represented both on and off the pitch. The club features three standout individuals who embody this rich cultural diversity: Kadin Chung has both Chinese and Filipino heritage while Aidan Daniels, also comes from Filipino descent. Lastly, local product and fan favourite Sami Keshavarz, is a first-generation immigrant from Iran.
For players like Kadin Chung and Sami Keshavarz, food is more than just a meal—it’s a powerful expression of culture and a way to bring family and friends together.
For Kadin, sharing food is one of the most natural and meaningful ways to invite others into his Chinese/Filipino heritage.
“Dim sum is the experience that stands out the most for me,” he reflects. “It’s such a great way to bring the family together. You’re sharing all these different dishes, everyone’s reaching in, talking, laughing. It’s a happy place and a happy moment—and of course, the food is amazing. You walk away feeling full and content, in every way.”
Being born and raised in Coquitlam, BC, Kadin's grandparents played an important role teaching him the values and lesson of his Chinese and Filipino heritage.
“Growing up, I spent a lot of time with my grandparents on both sides of my family. Whenever I stayed over with my yin and yéye, they’d drive us to school, teach us songs, and share stories about their upbringing. Those moments always bring the biggest smile to my face—just getting to hear their stories and understand more about who they are and where they came from.”
For Sami, his Iranian culture is present in the everyday rhythms of life—from the homemade meals his mother prepares to the language they speak at home. That deep connection shows up in his identity as both Iranian and Canadian—especially when asked which team he’ll cheer for at the next World Cup.
“I’ve always supported Iran, because they were the team I grew up watching,” he says. “But now, with Canada qualifying and set to host in 2026, it’s tough. Both are part of who I am—they’re both home to me.”
Pacific FC will bring their Asian Heritage Match to life on Saturday, May 24th where Bayanihan Community Centre, Victoria’s Filipino Society, will feature pre-match and halftime cultural dance performances, national anthem singers and dedicated in-stadium info booths to help fans connect with one of the lower Islands' many diverse cultural groups.
Bayanihan Community Centre will be running a ticket fundraiser to support the Filipino families affected by the recent events that transpired in Vancouver. If you are interested in coming out to the game we encourage you to click HERE to buy tickets through their fundraiser link where Pacific FC will donate $5 towards the communities impacted for every ticket purchased.
The match will also feature APPARE Yosakoi Vancouver, a high-energy Japanese dance group known for performing with traditional wooden instruments called naruko. They will take the stage in our Family Zone before kickoff and again at halftime.
These performances will showcase a range of traditional art forms and highlight the beauty of cultural expression through music, movement, and community.
Whether you're a die-hard supporter or a first-time visitor, the Asian Heritage Match is a perfect opportunity to experience more than just 90 minutes of football—it’s a chance to connect, celebrate, and support the diversity of the sport in Canada.
Come for the football, stay for the culture.
Click HERE to join the celebration at Starlight Stadium on May 24th.