西南佛州华人协会文化交流
SWFCA Cultural Exchange
Explore the schedule and sign up here for the SWFCA & FGCU Chinese Cultural Exchange Program!
Come Learn Taichi（太极拳） with Mr. Ma!
Taichi is widely regarded as one of the most powerful mind‑body practices for building long‑term health. Even a few minutes of gentle practice each day can lead to meaningful improvements in balance, strength, relaxation, and overall well‑being. Research from Harvard Medical School, Johns Hopkins University, the National Institutes of Health, and many other institutions consistently shows Taichi’s effectiveness for both prevention and treatment of numerous health concerns.
We are truly fortunate to have Mr. Ma as our instructor — a Taichi master with decades of experience and rare expertise in both the physiological and martial foundations of the art. In most parts of the country, learning from a teacher of his caliber would come with significant cost, yet members of our Association can study with him completely free.
Come practice Taichi with Mr. Ma every Wednesday and Friday afternoon. Your body and mind will thank you. Contact us to reserve your spot now!
Experience the Art of Chinese Paper Cutting （剪纸艺术） with Jingjing Wu!Unleash your creativity and explore the timeless art of Chinese paper cutting! Join our Chinese Paper Cutting Art Workshop to learn how simple pieces of paper can be transformed into beautiful designs filled with cultural meaning and tradition.
Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced crafter, you’ll enjoy this hands-on experience while creating your own unique artwork to take home. Come discover this cherished Chinese folk art in a fun, welcoming environment—everyone is invited! Paper cutting is a traditional art form that creates intricate openwork designs from paper. With a history spanning over 2,000 years in China, it is crafted using scissors or carving knives and is officially recognized as part of China’s intangible cultural heritage. As a bearer of this cultural tradition, Mrs. Jingjing Wu has developed a deep passion and emotional connection to paper openwork art from an early age. Alongside this love comes a strong sense of responsibility—to preserve its legacy, encourage its evolution, and explore new possibilities through innovation. Art knows no borders. It is Mrs. Wu’s hope that the beauty of paper openwork will reach every corner of the world, offering visual delight and artistic inspiration to all. Contact us to reserve your spot now! |
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Learn Chinese Language （汉语） with Our Experienced Teachers!
Join our Chinese Language Class and start your journey into one of the world’s most beautiful and widely spoken languages! Whether you’re a complete beginner or looking to improve your speaking, reading, or writing skills, this class offers a friendly and supportive environment for all levels. Learn practical conversation, explore Chinese characters, and gain cultural insights along the way. Come learn with us—everyone is welcome!
Ying Li is a native Mandarin speaker and bilingual educator with more than ten years of teaching experience across the United States, Thailand, and China. She currently teaches middle and high school mathematics at Island Park High School and holds Florida teaching certifications in Math 5–9 and 6–12, along with a 60‑hour ESOL endorsement. In addition to her work in mathematics, Ying teaches Mandarin Chinese to learners ages 5 to 40 through Ms. Dan’s Chinese and is a registered Step Up provider offering both online and in‑person instruction. Her international background includes teaching Chinese language and history at Halio International School in Thailand, tutoring English through PalFish, and leading an intensive Chinese immersion program for Cornell University Ph.D. candidates.
Ying began her career as a teaching assistant in the Chinese Language Program at Webster University Thailand, supporting lesson planning, materials development, and student assessment. She holds dual bachelor’s degrees in English and Business, as well as TESOL and CTCSOL certifications. A Level A Mandarin Proficiency Certificate holder and published author on language learning topics, Ying is committed to creating engaging, culturally rich lessons that empower learners of all ages to grow with confidence.
Jie Chen holds a Master’s degree in Applied Economics from Cornell University and has ten years of experience teaching Chinese language part-time. With a deep interest in traditional Chinese culture, she has studied the chanting and recitation of classical Chinese poetry and literature for five years. Since 2021, she has further devoted herself to the study of Confucian classics, Chinese humanities and history, and the Confucian practice of self-cultivation.
Xin Wang holds a Master’s degree in Human Geography from Tianjin Normal University and a Master’s degree in Teaching and Curriculum from Michigan State University. She has 15 years of teaching experience in U.S. elementary, middle, and high schools, including 11 years dedicated to teaching Chinese language and culture. With extensive experience working with students across different age groups, Xin is passionate about creating engaging learning experiences and helping students develop their Chinese language skills while deepening their appreciation for Chinese culture.
Jing Zhou A native Mandarin speaker, is fluent in both English and Cantonese and is a certified teacher of Chinese to speakers of other languages. She has extensive experience teaching Chinese to children and teenagers and has remained deeply committed to Chinese language education throughout her career, whether teaching full-time or part-time. As both an educator and a mother, she has successfully raised two bilingual children. Her passion for teaching and her belief in the importance of language and cultural connection continue to inspire her work with the next generation.
Jingjing Wu is a dedicated cultural educator and media professional whose work bridges traditional arts, education, and community storytelling. Originally from China, she holds advanced training in intangible cultural heritage from Shenyang Normal University and is recognized as a municipal-level inheritor of the traditional art of paper cutting. She is also certified in Teaching Chinese as a Foreign Language through the Beijing Center For The Promotion of Chinese Overseas. Jingjing served as a newspaper text editor and hosted a radio program for senior audiences. Guided by her belief that art transcends borders and cultures thrive through harmony, she is committed to sharing and preserving traditional Chinese paper cutting. Outside of her cultural work, she enjoys swimming, sports, cycling, playing the guzheng, and staying active in the community.
Ann Hu is a dedicated professional educator with 30 years of experience who holds a Ph.D. in Education. Committed to fostering academic growth and cultural enrichment for all learners, she channels her deep expertise into leading the Youth & Education Committee for the Southwest Florida Chinese Association. Ann is passionate about helping young people explore Chinese culture and language, guiding them to expand their horizons and appreciate diversity in the community. Outside of her leadership roles, she is an avid world traveler and a passionate gardener. Whether she is harvesting fresh produce or helping young minds grow and expand their vision, Ann finds her greatest fulfillment in nurturing growth and cultivation in all aspects of life.
Contact us to reserve your spot now!
Practice Guzheng (古筝） with Prof. Qin!Professor Qin Xiaoning, of Yao ethnicity, has dedicated more than thirty years to guzheng performance, music education, and ethnic music research at the School of Music and Dance of Guangxi Science & Technology Normal University. Trained at Guangxi Arts Institute, she studied under leading guzheng masters and became the formal “closed-door” disciple of Zhao Dengshan, inheriting the refined tradition of the Shandong School while building a strong academic foundation in ethnology and cultural studies through her doctoral training.
Renowned as both a scholar and an artist, she has held influential roles in music education, professional evaluation, and public cultural service at the regional and national levels. Through her academic leadership and civic engagement, she has consistently advanced ethnic music preservation, education standards, and cultural communication. Internationally, Professor Qin has studied, taught, and performed across Asia, Europe, and North America, becoming the first musician from Guangxi invited to perform at Vienna’s Golden Hall. Her award-winning solo album Zheng Yu Jue Xiang and her recognition as a Sino–U.S. Yao Cultural Exchange Ambassador reflect her lasting impact on cross-cultural exchange and her success in mentoring students now active around the world. |
Contact us to reserve your spot now!
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Join Our Calligraphy（书法）Club!
Have you ever wanted to learn the beautiful art of Chinese calligraphy? Whether you’re a complete beginner or have experience with the brush, we’d love for you to join our Chinese Calligraphy Club! Calligraphy is more than writing—it’s a relaxing art form that connects us with Chinese culture, creativity, and friendship. Come learn, practice, and enjoy this timeless tradition together in a welcoming and supportive environment. Everyone is welcome!
We are delighted to introduce Mr. Benzeng Wang, a distinguished Chinese calligrapher of five decades with a deep passion for music and calligraphy, and a long-standing commitment to public welfare and charitable causes. Originally from Shandong, China, Mr. Wang holds a Master’s degree in Engineering from Wuhan University. He previously worked at China Petroleum & Chemical Corporation (Sinopec) and retired from the Shengli Oil field. Mr. Wang brings a unique blend of technical expertise, artistic talent, and a generous spirit of service to the community.
Join Our Vibrant Dance （舞蹈） Community!
Join us for a beautiful journey through movement with Chinese Classical Dance and Ethnic Minority Folk Dance! Experience the elegance, grace, and expressive storytelling of classical Chinese dance, along with the vibrant rhythms and rich cultural traditions of China’s diverse ethnic minority folk dances. Whether you are a beginner or have dance experience, this is a welcoming space to learn, grow, and enjoy the art of dance together. Discover culture through movement, build confidence, and connect with a joyful community. Come dance with us—everyone is welcome!
Ms. Chenwei Yang is an active member and cultural advocate in Southwest Florida’s Asian community. She is passionate about preserving and sharing the beauty of Chinese classical and ethnic dance through both teaching and performance. Together with her dance team, Ms. Yang has performed at numerous cultural events and community celebrations throughout Southwest Florida, bringing Chinese dance traditions to diverse audiences and fostering greater appreciation for Chinese culture through the art of dance.
Ms. Chenwei Yang is an active member and cultural advocate in Southwest Florida’s Asian community. She is passionate about preserving and sharing the beauty of Chinese classical and ethnic dance through both teaching and performance. Together with her dance team, Ms. Yang has performed at numerous cultural events and community celebrations throughout Southwest Florida, bringing Chinese dance traditions to diverse audiences and fostering greater appreciation for Chinese culture through the art of dance.
Experience the rich diversity of China’s many ethnic cultures through the joy of dance! Join our Chinese Ethnic Minority Folk Dance group to learn graceful, vibrant dances that celebrate the traditions, music, and stories of China’s ethnic communities. No dance experience is necessary—just bring your enthusiasm and a willingness to have fun! Come enjoy movement, music, friendship, and culture in a welcoming environment. Everyone is invited to dance with us!
Wenbo Zhang, a dance Instructor & performer, is originally from Harbin, in northeastern China. Wenbo brings the warmth, candor, and humor of her northern roots to everything she does. She fell in love with dance at an early age and began formal training in Chinese ethnic and folk dance at five, building a rich performance background along the way. After moving to the United States, Wenbo worked as a Chinese language teacher in a Tennessee public school district, where she also collaborated with local music teachers to direct and stage Chinese dance performances. Over the years, she has taken part in numerous cultural celebrations organized by SWFL and has performed at events across the southwest Florida. For Wenbo, dance is life. Passion knows no age, and movement fears no time. If you love to dance, come dance with Wenbo!
Wenbo Zhang, a dance Instructor & performer, is originally from Harbin, in northeastern China. Wenbo brings the warmth, candor, and humor of her northern roots to everything she does. She fell in love with dance at an early age and began formal training in Chinese ethnic and folk dance at five, building a rich performance background along the way. After moving to the United States, Wenbo worked as a Chinese language teacher in a Tennessee public school district, where she also collaborated with local music teachers to direct and stage Chinese dance performances. Over the years, she has taken part in numerous cultural celebrations organized by SWFL and has performed at events across the southwest Florida. For Wenbo, dance is life. Passion knows no age, and movement fears no time. If you love to dance, come dance with Wenbo!
Celebrate the timeless beauty and elegance of the Chinese qipao through music and dance! Join our Chinese Qipao Dance group and experience a graceful blend of traditional culture, artistic expression, and community. Whether you’re new to dance or have years of experience, you’ll enjoy learning beautiful choreography, building confidence, and sharing the charm of the qipao with others through performances and special events. Come dance with us—everyone is welcome!
Mrs. Mei Lin (Sandy) is originally from Guangzhou, China, and brings more than 30 years of experience in early childhood education. Throughout her career, she held senior leadership positions, including serving as an educational supervisor for an education group in Hong Kong and as the executive director of a preschool education group in Yunnan, where she founded and led a kindergarten serving more than 700 children with a team of 109 faculty and staff. Under her leadership, the kindergarten became a highly regarded model preschool in Yunnan. After retiring in August 2025, Sandy relocated to the United States. She is passionate about community service and volunteerism and is dedicated to sharing and promoting Chinese culture in her new community.
Mrs. Mei Lin (Sandy) is originally from Guangzhou, China, and brings more than 30 years of experience in early childhood education. Throughout her career, she held senior leadership positions, including serving as an educational supervisor for an education group in Hong Kong and as the executive director of a preschool education group in Yunnan, where she founded and led a kindergarten serving more than 700 children with a team of 109 faculty and staff. Under her leadership, the kindergarten became a highly regarded model preschool in Yunnan. After retiring in August 2025, Sandy relocated to the United States. She is passionate about community service and volunteerism and is dedicated to sharing and promoting Chinese culture in her new community.
Join us for a joyful journey of movement and expression with The Hula and Belly Dance Club! This is a welcoming space where you can explore the graceful storytelling of hula and the vibrant, rhythmic artistry of belly dance. No experience is needed—just bring your energy, curiosity, and love for dance. Learn basic techniques, build confidence, and enjoy the beauty of two rich cultural dance traditions while connecting with a fun and supportive community. Come dance with us—everyone is welcome!
Mrs. Winnie Lammlein has nurtured a lifelong love for dance, studying and performing styles such as belly dance, Polynesian dance, and line dance. She has been an active presence in community and charity performances for many years. In 2014, she performed Hula at a local Island Festival—an appearance that was proudly featured in the local newspaper. Since then, Winnie has performed at the SWFL Chinese New Year Galas and Asian Festivals, sharing her passion with diverse audiences across the region. Now based in Fort Myers, Winnie teaches Hula dance within the Chinese community for those who love movement and joy, while also sharing basic belly dance lessons. Together with her Island Vibes dance group, they dance for joy, friendship, and wellness—and warmly welcome anyone who shares the same passion to join them.
Get ready to move, groove, and have fun with The Line Dance Club! Join us for an energizing and social dance experience where you’ll learn easy-to-follow routines set to great music in a friendly, welcoming environment. No partner or prior dance experience is needed—just bring your enthusiasm and a willingness to try something new! It’s a great way to stay active, meet new friends, and enjoy the joy of dancing together. Come line dance with us—everyone is welcome!
Mrs. Hong Liu — born and raised in Qinghai Province in China, she has loved dancing since she was a little girl. Skilled in many dance styles, she holds a special place in her heart for Mongolian dance and has taught and inspired many dancers throughout Southwest Florida over the years. Mrs. Liu has been very active in the local Chinese community and enjoys bringing people together through culture and the arts. Outside of dancing, she stays active playing pickleball and expresses her creativity through photography.
Mrs. Hong（Alice) Xu, a distinguished Chinese dancer who has dedicated over 30 years to the art of Chinese folk dance. Her enduring passion has not only shaped her own journey but has also inspired and trained many dancers throughout the Southwest Florida region. Over the years, she has collaborated with renowned Chinese artists at Chinese New Year celebrations and other major cultural events.
Mrs. Winnie Lammlein has nurtured a lifelong love for dance, studying and performing styles such as belly dance, Polynesian dance, and line dance. She has been an active presence in community and charity performances for many years. In 2014, she performed Hula at a local Island Festival—an appearance that was proudly featured in the local newspaper. Since then, Winnie has performed at the SWFL Chinese New Year Galas and Asian Festivals, sharing her passion with diverse audiences across the region. Now based in Fort Myers, Winnie teaches Hula dance within the Chinese community for those who love movement and joy, while also sharing basic belly dance lessons. Together with her Island Vibes dance group, they dance for joy, friendship, and wellness—and warmly welcome anyone who shares the same passion to join them.
Get ready to move, groove, and have fun with The Line Dance Club! Join us for an energizing and social dance experience where you’ll learn easy-to-follow routines set to great music in a friendly, welcoming environment. No partner or prior dance experience is needed—just bring your enthusiasm and a willingness to try something new! It’s a great way to stay active, meet new friends, and enjoy the joy of dancing together. Come line dance with us—everyone is welcome!
Mrs. Hong Liu — born and raised in Qinghai Province in China, she has loved dancing since she was a little girl. Skilled in many dance styles, she holds a special place in her heart for Mongolian dance and has taught and inspired many dancers throughout Southwest Florida over the years. Mrs. Liu has been very active in the local Chinese community and enjoys bringing people together through culture and the arts. Outside of dancing, she stays active playing pickleball and expresses her creativity through photography.
Mrs. Hong（Alice) Xu, a distinguished Chinese dancer who has dedicated over 30 years to the art of Chinese folk dance. Her enduring passion has not only shaped her own journey but has also inspired and trained many dancers throughout the Southwest Florida region. Over the years, she has collaborated with renowned Chinese artists at Chinese New Year celebrations and other major cultural events.
Join the Chinese Opera (戏曲） Club!
Christina Mundy is in the process of choreographing a Huangmei Opera dance. All are welcome! Step into the rich and dramatic world of Chinese opera with our Chinese Opera Club! Explore the beauty of this traditional performing art through singing, movement, storytelling, costumes, and expressive stage performance. Whether you are new to opera or already passionate about it, this is a welcoming space to learn vocal techniques, character expression, and cultural history while having fun and building confidence on stage. Come experience the magic of Chinese opera with us—everyone is welcome!
Come Explore Chinese Culture, History and Literature at the Elling Eide Center!
The Elling Eide Center is a research library and nature preserve overlooking Little Sarasota Bay in Sarasota, Florida. Dedicated to the study of classical Chinese literature and art, the Center fills a unique role in the cultural and scholarly landscape of its coastal Florida location that includes a rich assortment of native and exotic plants. The Center’s collection contains comprehensive library holdings and special collections of rare books, manuscripts, and artwork that represent a significant resource for scholars of China and East Asia. The library itself houses more than 60,000 volumes covering every period of Chinese history from ancient times to the modern era and an extensive collection of more than 300 scholarly journals from around the world. Areas of concentration include medieval China from the fourth through tenth centuries, pre-modern peoples and languages of Central and Inner Asia, and poetry of the Tang Dynasty. Visit https://ellingoeide.org/ and sign up for an arboretum tour, lecture, or conference.