Sponsorship for
B. C. Mandarin Speech Contest, 2003

1. Introduction

A British Columbia Mandarin Speech Contest, sponsored by the Sino-Canada Education Association (CCEDU) and Chinese Cultural Centre of Greater Vancouver (CCCVAN) will be held on February 16, 2003. This event is aimed at promoting cross-cultural communication, stimulating interest in learning Mandarin and recognizing achievements in learning and using Mandarin among British Columbians.
The contest will be broadcast live on www.mymandarin.com. Everyone in the world will have a chance to enjoy this contest. As well, a professor of languages will offer on-line training for every contestant in 2/6/2003 - 2/7/2003.

The contest consists of four categories:
(1) Non-native speakers of Mandarin
(2) Mandarin as second language speakers
(3) Native mandarin speakers (12 years old and under)
(4) Native mandarin speakers (13 years or older)

The news media (TV, radio and newspaper) will publicize the event.

CCEDU (www.ccedu.net) is a national organization dedicated exclusively to promoting educational exchange between Canada and China. It is a non-profit, non-governmental organization with charitable status. CCEDU's membership is composed of colleges and universities across Canada and China, as well as corporate partners, non-governmental organizations, government agencies and individuals.

CCCVAV(www.cccvan.com) was founded in 1973 with the support of the government and of 53 community organizations along with that of many enthusiastic individuals. The aims and objectives of CCC as specified in the constitution are as follows:
· To promote understanding and friendship between the Chinese community and other cultural groups in Canada.
· To interpret and communicate Chinese culture and to facilitate exchange with other cultural groups and with the community at large.
· To promote and foster Chinese culture and art within the Chinese community and with other cultural groups.
· To help Chinese immigrants adjust to the culture, heritage, and lifestyle in Canada.
· To build and maintain cultural facilities for the purpose of achieving these aims and objectives.

2. Event Schedule

News Release:
　　Time: 1:00 p.m., Friday, January 17, 2003
　　Place: Chinese Cultural Centre of Greater Vancouver,
　　555 Columbia Street, Vancouver, B.C., Canada
Pre-contest:
　　Time: Sunday, February 9, 2003 from 1: 00 pm - 5: 00 pm
　　Place: 138 East Cordova Street, Vancouver
Contest:
　　Time: Sunday, February 16, 2003 from 1: 00 pm - 5: 00 pm
　　Place: to be announced at a later date

3. Sponsor Benefit