Teochew Association at UCLA
University of California - Los Angeles
About Teochew Association at UCLA
Based at the University of California - Los Angeles, the Teochew Association represents a thriving student community dedicated to bridging cultural divides and preserving a heritage that spans multiple countries and identities. Founded in 2004, this organization recognizes that Teochew people are dispersed across diverse backgrounds—many identifying simultaneously as Chinese, Vietnamese, Cambodian, Thai, French, Philippine, or Australian—and provides an essential gathering place for connection and belonging.
The association's core mission reflects a deep commitment to community wellness and cultural continuity. Members work together to promote Teochew cultural awareness, preserve the Teochew language, strengthen family and community bonds across generations, and create spaces where youth can invest in their heritage. The organization honors all members regardless of gender identity, sexual orientation, ethnicity, nationality, or ability, embodying principles of genuine inclusion that extend beyond surface-level diversity.
What distinguishes Teochew Association at UCLA is its emphasis on relationship-building and shared experience. The organization prioritizes fun and friendship alongside cultural preservation, recognizing that sustainable community engagement thrives when members feel valued and connected. Through quarterly joint socials with sister organizations, partnerships with the Southern California Teochew Association in Los Angeles' Chinatown, and collaboration with regional non-profits, the association maintains vital connections that strengthen the entire Teochew College Coalition network.
Teochew Association at UCLA operates as an all-inclusive organization that welcomes anyone interested in learning about Teochew culture and building community. Members participate in social gatherings, cultural events, and community service activities that create unforgettable memories while establishing and reinforcing Teochew identity for future generations.