Ms. Lu is a licensed Zumba instructor, currently employed at a public elementary school with the Peel District School Board. As residents of the first phase of this community, she and her husband established the Kleinburg Chinese Community Housing and Mutual Assistance WeChat group in 2016. What began with just ten members has now flourished into a community of 268 individuals, where information is shared, questions are answered, and mutual assistance is provided.

Recognizing the shared interest in fitness among group members, Ms. Lu generously opened her basement as a venue for Zumba gatherings. As interest grew, Ms. Lu initiated the Kleinburg Dance Wellness Group, allowing neighbors to collectively rent the gym at Pope Francis Catholic Elementary School once a week. Over the past four years, this initiative has provided a convenient and affordable gym option primarily for residents of Chinese background, while also welcoming participation from neighbors of diverse ethnicities.

Ms. Lu’s remarkable leadership, dedication, and organizational skills have been instrumental in the success of these endeavors. She has tailored activities to accommodate varying ages, physical abilities, and cultural preferences, even arranging for classic dances during intermissions. Additionally, her ability to inspire and empower others is evident in her encouragement of fellow member Xie Dami to lead the Chinese traditional dance.

Even during personal challenges, such as her mother’s surgery necessitating her return to China, Ms. Lu’s commitment remained unwavering. Prior to her departure, she recorded all her dance videos to ensure continuity in the group’s activities. Her husband took the initiative to set it up in the gym and make sure these videos were played every Tuesday night, so that everyone’s fitness routines remained uninterrupted.

Ms. Lu has volunteered for eight years as a Zumba instructor and leader of the Kleinburg Dance Wellness Group, supporting the fitness needs of over 268 residents. Her exceptional leadership, dedication, and ability to inspire others have created a welcoming and inclusive community gym environment. Despite personal challenges, her commitment to enhancing community mental and physical wellness has made a lasting impact on our community.