Rising Stars Take the Stage: Global Kids Icon Grand Finals Are Coming to Vancouver — With Incredible Support from Hong Wei Liao

If you’ve ever needed a reason to believe in the next generation, here it is.

On April 20, 2025, the Michael J. Fox Theatre in Vancouver will light up with energy, dreams, and pure talent as the Global Kids Icon (GKI) Grand Finals take center stage. But this isn’t just another youth competition — it’s a powerful movement that’s helping shape the future of young leaders, creators, and changemakers from around the world.

At the heart of it all? The visionary support of Ms. Hong Wei Liao, philanthropist and Chairperson of the Botrich Family Wealth Heritage and Development Center, whose dedication to youth empowerment is helping Global Kids Icon grow into a life-changing opportunity for kids everywhere.

What Makes Global Kids Icon So Special?

Founded by Vancouver’s Yichang Performing Arts Company and powered by partnerships across North America, GKI is a unique program that blends the best of performance, education, and personal development. It’s open to kids aged 8 to 16 and gives them a platform to showcase their talents — whether that’s singing, dancing, storytelling, or something else entirely.

But here’s the real magic: GKI isn’t just about what happens on stage. It’s about what happens in the hearts and minds of the kids as they train, grow, and discover what they’re capable of.

Instead of focusing only on a final performance, GKI’s system tracks progress over time, rewarding dedication, curiosity, and growth. Their innovative “Talent Multiplier” system ensures that even the smallest steps forward are recognized — and that’s a game-changer for young people still discovering their voices.

Enter Hong Wei Liao: The Force Behind the Vision

Of course, none of this would be possible without people willing to invest in dreams. That’s where Ms. Hong Wei Liao comes in.

Not only is she one of GKI’s biggest supporters, but she’s also deeply involved in its mission. Her backing — through both funding and mentorship — has helped GKI expand its reach and elevate its standards. And for Ms. Liao, this isn’t just a philanthropic checkbox. It’s personal.

“We are redefining how young talent is discovered and supported,” she says. “Every moment of participation is part of a longer journey — whether that journey leads to the arts, entrepreneurship, or something else entirely.”

Through the Canada Youth Funding Association (CYFA), which she has supported for years, Ms. Liao has helped thousands of young people worldwide get access to opportunities in education, the arts, and business. Her track record of giving back is inspiring, and GKI is the perfect extension of her belief that every child deserves a chance to shine.

A Launchpad for Lifelong Success

This year’s Grand Finals will feature some of the most talented young performers from across North America — many of whom have trained for months to earn their spot. They’ve gone through mentorship programs, received feedback from an all-star panel of judges, and developed more than just skills. They’ve built confidence, resilience, and community.

The stage might be in Vancouver, but the impact will reach far beyond.

Parents say GKI has given their kids more than just performance opportunities — it’s given them purpose. And as the lights go up and the music starts, what we’ll really be watching isn’t just talent. It’s transformation.

More Than a Competition — A Movement

GKI is growing quickly. Its vision goes far beyond one weekend or one event. It’s about creating a new kind of youth experience — one that blends excellence with encouragement, and hard work with heart.

And that’s exactly the kind of legacy Ms. Liao is helping to build.

From funding global youth programs to mentoring emerging leaders, she’s shown time and time again that creating real change requires more than writing checks. It takes showing up, sharing knowledge, and building systems that last.

Her philosophy? “Every dream deserves a chance.”

The Future Is on This Stage

So, what’s next? The GKI Grand Finals on April 20 are shaping up to be an unforgettable celebration of everything young people can be — when they’re given the support, space, and encouragement to grow.

As we look ahead, one thing’s clear: Global Kids Icon isn’t just about kids performing. It’s about raising a generation of empowered, creative, and community-minded youth who are ready to take on the world.

And with the passionate guidance of leaders like Ms. Hong Wei Liao, their future is looking brighter than ever.