2026 BOD CANDIDATE - Grace Yan
Grace Yan
Alberta (AB)
Grace Yan is a dual citizen of Canada and the Philippines, born in the Philippines and raised in Canada after immigrating at the age of five. She currently serves as President of the Philippines Chamber of Commerce, where she leads initiatives focused on economic development, cross-border trade, and community advancement. In this role, she builds strategic partnerships with government agencies, financial institutions, and international stakeholders to create opportunities benefiting both local and global Filipino communities.
Grace is a commercial real estate specialist and global investment advisor with extensive experience in acquisitions, leasing, and complex deal structuring across Canadian and international markets. Known for her strong negotiation capabilities and legal foundation, she integrates brokerage expertise with paralegal knowledge to deliver disciplined, results-driven outcomes.
Her work includes advising on large-scale transactions, telecom lease negotiations, and development projects, consistently focused on maximizing value and protecting stakeholder interests. She is recognized for leadership, organization, and managing complex, multi-party initiatives.
Grace is also a former mayoral candidate in Calgary and the first Filipino to run for mayor in Alberta, demonstrating her commitment to representation, advocacy, and inclusive economic growth. She continues to mentor emerging leaders and support initiatives that strengthen entrepreneurship and community resilience.
Answers to Questions:
1. What skills will you contribute to the FCNC Board?
I bring a combination of commercial, legal, and community leadership experience that aligns strongly with FCNC’s national mandate. As a commercial real estate specialist with cross-border transaction expertise, I contribute strategic negotiation, financial analysis, and governance discipline. My paralegal background supports strong legal comprehension, policy interpretation, and risk management. I also bring proven experience in stakeholder engagement, sponsorship development, and organizational growth through my leadership role with the Philippine Chamber of Commerce. I am highly organized, responsive, and experienced in managing complex initiatives while collaborating across diverse teams.
2. What are the most important functions of FCNC for its members?
FCNC’s most important function is to serve as a unified national voice representing Filipino Canadians, ensuring their interests are effectively communicated to government and institutional partners. It plays a critical role in advocacy, policy influence, and strengthening representation across social, economic, and political spheres. Equally important is its role in fostering collaboration among member organizations, supporting leadership development, and creating programs that advance community growth, inclusion, and national visibility.
3. Why do you want to be a FCNC director?
I am committed to advancing the Filipino Canadian community through strategic leadership, national collaboration, and impactful advocacy. Serving as a Director provides an opportunity to contribute meaningfully at a national level, strengthen partnerships, and help shape initiatives that drive long-term economic, cultural, and civic advancement for Filipino Canadians across Canada.