On Tuesday, 1st October 2024, the UK Teochew Culture and Commerce Association (UKTCCA) was officially inaugurated in Southampton by the Lord Mayor, Councillor David Shields. This day holds dual significance—not only is it China’s National Day, but it also marks the important occasion of the founding of the UK Teochew Culture and Commerce Association, reflecting the cultural pride of the Teochew community. This moment represents the pride and collective efforts of the Teochew community and signifies the beginning of a new journey.
The UKTCCA objectives are:
- To promote the well-being and integration of the Teochew Chinese community and the wider public in the UK by providing access to resources, support, and educational opportunities that encourage personal growth, collective development, social inclusion, and community cohesion.
- To preserve, promote and educate the public about Teochew Chinese arts, culture and traditions for the public benefit, through cultural programs, events, educational initiatives, and facilitating cross-cultural exchanges within UK society.
- To increase the economic income and advance education within the Teochew Chinese community by offering training, skills development and mentoring in entrepreneurship, business development and employment opportunities, thereby fostering economic self-sufficiency and enhancing public benefit.
The Teochew community, primarily from the Chaoshan region of China, includes approximately 10 million people in China and an estimated 5 million more living around the world in countries such as Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, the United States, and the UK. Known for their resilience, adaptability, and strong sense of community, the Teochew people have managed to maintain their unique cultural heritage across generations and across continents.
The inauguration on China’s National Day added further significance to the event, highlighting the community’s deep ties to its heritage and its aspirations in the UK. With the establishment of UKTCCA, the Teochew community in the UK is poised to grow stronger, both culturally and economically, while building a bridge that links their rich past to a promising future.
The UK Teochew Culture and Commerce Association is a beacon for unity, cultural pride, and economic empowerment. As it opens its doors, it invites the Teochew community and the wider public to join in the journey of growth, integration, and shared success.