Five Former National Leaders Honour Tai Ji Men's Holistic Education and Culture of Conscience in Toronto

Toronto, Ontario Oct 11, 2026 (Issuewire.com) - Honouring the 60-year legacy of Tai Ji Men Qigong Academy in holistic education, Tai Ji Men held a three-day cultural and educational program under the theme A World of One Heart -- Peace and Sustainability at the St. Lawrence Centre for the Arts in Toronto from October 2 to 4. Coinciding with Culture Days, the program brought together traditional Eastern martial arts, music, dance, and diverse cultural performances at venues including the Bluma Appel Theatre. More than 600 Tai Ji Men dizi (disciples/apprentices), ranging in age from 8 to 77, participated onstage and behind the scenes, sharing the values of conscience, love, and peace through cultural expression. The performances drew full audiences, including five former heads of state and government, officials from several countries, and leaders from various fields.

Global Leaders Illuminate "PEACE 60" as Dr. Hong Tao-Tze Advocates Holistic Education Amid Global Challenges

During the October 3 program, Dr. Hong Tao-Tze, Grandmaster of Tai Ji Men, joined former heads of state and government from Croatia, Trinidad and Tobago, Bhutan, Lesotho, and Ecuador, along with other international guests. Among them was Jerry White, a leader in the International Campaign to Ban Landmines, which received the 1997 Nobel Peace Prize. Together, they illuminated the "PEACE 60" display, symbolizing their shared hopes for a peaceful and sustainable future. Dr. Hong also rang the Bell of World Peace and Love nine times, leading the audience in prayer for peace.

Dr. Hong Tao-Tze said, "I have inherited the enduring cultural and spiritual traditions of Tai Ji Men and teach my dizi qigong, martial arts, the practices of self-cultivation, and the wisdom of yin-yang philosophy. Our approach emphasizes that the heart is the foundation, qi is the means, self-cultivation is essential, and putting values into action is what makes them real."

"Tai Ji Men promotes lifelong learning for people of all ages. It offers global citizenship education that transcends race, national borders, and religious beliefs, as well as holistic education that inspires human potential and nurtures the body, mind, and spirit through love and conscience."

Reflecting on the turmoil facing the world today, Dr. Hong emphasized, "Only conscience, love, and the willingness to put these values into action can sustain humanity. As long as the power of love exists, there is hope for peace."

Dr. Hong has also advocated for and helped advance the establishment of the United Nations' International Day of Conscience and International Day of Hope, with the vision of making these values part of a shared global culture.

Former Prime Minister of Lesotho Pakalitha B. Mosisili praised Dr. Hong for bringing light, peace, and love to the world over the past 60 years. In an interview, he described the International Day of Hope and the International Day of Conscience as significant achievements.

Former President of Trinidad and Tobago Anthony Carmona emphasized the importance of teaching kindness and honesty through education. He said these values could help future leaders promote peace and find solutions to the challenges facing the world.

Monica Sanchez, president of the Miss CARICOM Int'l Foundation, which focuses on cultural heritage education, praised the way the performances brought different cultures together. She described education as a form of culture in itself, noting how music, dance, and the portrayal of different characters can come together to create a meaningful learning experience. She added that people around the world can similarly embrace their differences and work together toward peace, love, and conscience.

Former National Leaders Honour Dr. Hong's Contributions to Education, Conscience and Peace

In recognition of Dr. Hong's contributions over the past 60 years, including leading Tai Ji Men dizi in cultural exchanges across 123 countries, former national leaders presented him with certificates of appreciation and commemorative gifts.

Former President of Croatia Ivo Josipovi presented a certificate of appreciation recognizing Dr. Hong as "a moral visionary and advocate of the conscience movement" for his lifelong commitment to holistic education, cultural preservation, and promoting individual conscience as a guide to peace.

Former President of Trinidad and Tobago Anthony Carmona presented a Certificate of Commemorative and Honorary Tribute, recognizing Dr. Hong's contributions to physical and mental well-being and cultural preservation. Former Prime Minister of Bhutan Jigmi Yoser Thinley also presented a certificate of recognition honouring Dr. Hong's leadership and contributions to human well-being.

In August, former Prime Minister of Lesotho Pakalitha B. Mosisili presented Dr. Hong with the Global Conscience and Peace Leadership Award, while Jerry White, a leader in the Nobel Peace Prize-winning International Campaign to Ban Landmines, presented him with the Humanitarian and Peace Laurel Award. To mark the 60th anniversary of Lesotho's independence, Mosisili also presented Dr. Hong with a commemorative gift.

Other international guests, including former Minister of Education, Science and Culture of Suriname Henry R. Ori, who attended the October 4 program, praised Tai Ji Men's efforts to connect peace and sustainability through its cultural and educational activities.

Ontario Premier Doug Ford, Member of Provincial Parliament Aris Babikian (Scarborough-Agincourt), and other provincial officials also extended congratulations through letters and certificates of appreciation.

Ontario's Minister of Citizenship and Multiculturalism, Graham McGregor, recognized Tai Ji Men's contributions to education, cultural exchange, community engagement, peacebuilding, and the promotion of conscience, love, and mutual respect in Canada. He also acknowledged Dr. Hong's educational and cultural activities, which encourage mutual understanding and contribute to a more harmonious society.

More Than 600 Dizi Across Generations Showcase Cultural Traditions and Connect with the Toronto Community

More than 600 Tai Ji Men dizi from around the world, ranging in age from 8 to 77, took part in the performances and behind-the-scenes activities. They demonstrated a range of traditional martial arts, including empty-hand forms and routines using sabres, swords, staffs, and fans. These performances reflected the principle of zhi ge wei wu ()-- using martial arts to stop conflict and promote peace.

The Divine Dragon, Fire Phoenix, Auspicious Lion, Golden Peacock, and Qilin brought traditional cultural symbolism to the stage, drawing enthusiastic applause. Performers portraying angels shared messages of love and hope, while the Tai Ji Men Children's Choir presented Golden Kingdom, an original musical conveying the message that conscience is more precious than gold.

Together, these performances reflected Tai Ji Men's holistic educational approach, which emphasizes physical and mental well-being, personal development, and contributing to society.

Since Tai Ji Men established its Toronto location in 2025, its holistic educational activities have become part of the local community. Three participants shared how practising qigong has benefited their daily lives: Zaver, a university student of Bangladeshi heritage; Joey, a nurse; and Alex, an artist of Colombian heritage. Each described experiencing greater calm and energy in their work and everyday activities.

Media Contact

Tai Ji Men

[email protected]

416.848.6069

125 King St E, Toronto, ON M5C 1G6, Canada

https://www.taijimen.ca/