Article by Capt Kyle Ho, RPOU(W) Program Officer
In celebration of the Canadian Military Engineer (CME) Birthday, the Real Property Operations Unit (West) (RPOU-W), in collaboration with 1 Combat Engineer Regiment (1 CER), hosted a unique professional development (PD) event that blended military tradition with cultural enrichment. This year’s theme focused on Asian heritage, aligning with Asian Heritage Month and reinforcing the Defence Team’s commitment to diversity, inclusion, and cultural awareness.
The PD session, held at CFB Edmonton, was a grassroots initiative designed to bring together employees from diverse backgrounds to learn, share, and connect through stories and traditions from across Asia. The event was spearheaded by RPOU-W and 1 CER, with support from the Canadian Military Engineer Association (CMEA) and the newly established Defence Team Canadian Asian Network (DTCAN).
The session opened with a heartfelt presentation by Cher-Ann Chai, RPOU-W’s Information Management Officer (IMO), who shared her personal heritage and cultural experiences from Brunei. Her story offered a glimpse into the rich traditions and values of Southeast Asia, setting the tone for an afternoon of learning and reflection.
Following her, Capt Benjamin Campbell, RPOU-W Operations Officer, recounted his recent travels to Japan. His experience on cultural differences and moments of “culture shock” provided a relatable and engaging perspective on navigating unfamiliar environments with openness and respect.
The educational journey continued with a captivating segment on Chinese mythology, exploring the ancient legends of Pan Gu and Nüwa, the China’s version of Adam and Eve. These stories illustrated how ancient Chinese civilizations understood the creation of the world and humanity, offering attendees a deeper appreciation for the philosophical and spiritual roots of Asian culture.
The PD concluded with a meaningful discussion on anti-Asian hate, where participants shared perspectives from various cultural backgrounds. This open dialogue fostered empathy, understanding, and solidarity among Defence Team members. The session also included an announcement of a follow-on event at CFB Edmonton, continuing the collaborative efforts of RPOU-W and 1 CER to promote cultural awareness.
To cap off the celebration, attendees enjoyed the first “RPOU-W Taste of Asia” event in 2025. Sponsored in part by the CMEA, the gathering with some Asian finger foods, desserts, and teas. The culinary experience served as a delicious reminder of the power of food to bring people together.
The event also highlighted the role of DTCAN, a grassroots network launched in January 2025, which aims to connect Defence Team members, share resources, and provide peer support.
DTCAN also serves as an advisory body to the Chain of Command on matters of cultural awareness and inclusion. Those interested in learning more or seeking guidance are encouraged to reach out via email at dtcan-raced@forces.gc.ca
By combining the celebration of CME heritage with Asian cultural appreciation, RPOU-W and 1 CER have set an example of how tradition and diversity can improve team spirits with participations.