Amid the rich tapestry of cultures at Brandeis, Cantonese Club, also known as C2B, is more than just a celebration of Cantonese heritage, it’s a dynamic hub of connection and community. Through vibrant events that highlight the beauty of Cantonese language, food and traditions, C2B creates a space where students come together to learn, share and bond. From the energy of its iconic Yum Cha event to its warm, inclusive atmosphere, C2B is certainly a cultural cornerstone on campus.
Aaron Tian ’28, the First-Year Representative for C2B, recalls his unexpected journey into the club. “I wasn’t Cantonese, so I almost walked away from their table at the club fair,” he shares. “But Dylan, one of our Presidents, encouraged me to join. Looking back, it’s one of the best decisions I’ve made at Brandeis.”
This openness and inclusivity define C2B’s mission. Christine Chen ’28, a member of the club, highlights the club’s unique purpose: “C2B promotes Cantonese culture and language specifically, which sets us apart from the Chinese Student Association. It’s about spreading Cantonese culture across and even beyond campus.”
C2B’s signature event, Yum Cha, held annually in November, stands as a testament to the club’s dedication. Kara Lin ’27, one of the Yum Cha event coordinators, describes “we celebrate unique and remarkable Cantonese culture and traditions through storytelling, music, song and dance.”
This year’s theme for C2B’s annual Yum Cha event, “Juk Sing,” was a powerful exploration of the experiences of Chinese Americans navigating the delicate balance between heritage and identity. “Juk Sing,” a term used in Cantonese to describe Chinese Americans, emphasizes the notion that while Chinese Americans may face challenges in their cultural identity, their ties to Chinese culture remain profound. As Tian explains, “The idea was that, although fellow Chinese Americans may be seen as different, they are still Chinese at heart and still have intimate connections with their culture, despite not being native to their parents’ homeland.”
For Tian, one of the most heartwarming moments was witnessing the senior speeches at the event. “Despite only knowing the seniors for half a year at this point, it was really heartwarming to see their efforts come to fruition in their final years,” he reflects. Chen adds, “The day before Yum Cha, the entire E-Board worked together from early morning until midnight. Though we were stressed, it brought the club together a lot more, spending time with each other definitely made us closer.” Lin notes her favorite part of the event: “My favorite part this year was the lion dancing performance to open the show. It was a great way to engage the audience and set up the stage for the rest of the night.”
While Yum Cha is the major event of C2B’s calendar, the club hosts a variety of other activities. Lin points to events like Casino Night, an Egg Tart Making Competition and collaborative gatherings with other campus organizations. Their next event, Josun, coming up on Sunday, Dec. 8, promises to blend cultures by offering breakfast-for-dinner with contributions from multiple student clubs. This event will be held from 5-8 PM in the Sherman Function Hall.
C2B isn’t just about events; it’s about fostering community. “We want students to feel connected with Cantonese culture and try something new,” Lin explains. Chen echoes this sentiment, adding, “I want people to love it and have fun. That’s what motivates them to return and bring their friends.”
Interested students can join the club through campus groups or follow their Instagram, @c2bbrandeis. As Tian puts it, “C2B is more than just a club. It’s a place where you find appreciation for culture, a sense of belonging, and unforgettable memories.”
Through its dedication to cultural preservation and community building, Cantonese Club continues to leave a lasting impact at Brandeis. Whether you’re of Cantonese heritage or simply eager to connect with a tight-knit community, Cantonese Club at Brandeis offers a welcoming space for everyone.
