Miles Jonathan Wong on cultural traditions and workplace inclusion

myGwork spoke to Miles Jonathan Wong, also known as Huang Yibang, a key member of Marsh's Global Placement Division working with a team that sources global insurance solutions. He also serves as a Co-Chair of Marsh's Canadian Pride Colleague Resource Group, actively promoting inclusivity within the insurance industry. We discuss his experiences of cultural traditions, the significance of Asian celebrations in the workplace, and his perspective as an LGBTQ+ Asian professional.

Can you introduce yourself and your role at your organization.

My name is Miles Jonathan Wong, and my Chinese name is Huang Yibang(黄逸邦). I was born in Calgary, Alberta to parents who immigrated from Hong Kong in 1980. I am part of Marsh’s Global Placement Division in Vancouver, BC, Canada. I work with a team of Property & Casualty placement brokers that source global insurance solutions for global clients.

I am also a Co-Chair of our Canadian Pride Colleague Resource Group (CRG). We work closely with a number of university led queer business student associations to show the inclusive nature of Marsh and the insurance industry.

Can you share what cultural traditions, like Chinese New Year or Lunar New Year, hold particular significance for you?

The Qingming Festival observed on the 15^th day after the Spring Equinox, typically April 4^th or 5^th each year. During this time, we clean our ancestors’ graves, offer food and perform rituals to honor them. This is known as the act of Bai Shan (拜山) which literally translates to “worshipping the mountain”.

My family and heritage are deeply important to me, and this has always been a time to reflect on those who came before us and how we can not only make our ancestors proud, but our descendants.

Why do you believe it's important to commemorate Asian celebrations and culture in the workplace?

Commemorating Asian celebrations and culture in the workplace is vital because it creates a space where Asian identities are not only recognized but celebrated in their full richness. For me, as a queer Asian professional, these moments of cultural acknowledgment go beyond tradition—they affirm the intersectionality of my identity and foster a sense of belonging that is often hard to find.

When organizations honor Asian heritage, they challenge invisibility and stereotypes, making room for authentic stories and diverse experiences to be heard. This inclusivity not only uplifts Asian employees but also educates and connects the broader workforce, building empathy and stronger community. Ultimately, celebrating Asian culture at work empowers individuals like me to bring our whole selves to the table, which enriches the workplace with creativity, resilience, and a deeper understanding of what it means to belong.

Share with us some personal successes or achievements you are proud of as an LGBTQ+ Asian professional.

I recently had the honor of speaking at the Out on Bay Street Conference in Toronto, Ontario, where I affirmed my identity as a queer Asian professional who has navigated the complexities of intersectional invisibility related to both racial and sexual identity.

The opportunity to connect and demonstrate solidarity with fellow Chinese Canadian colleagues and students represented a meaningful and impactful moment of collective recognition and empowerment.

Who is a role model in the Asian community (LGBTQ+ or not) that inspires you, either in your personal life or professional career? Can you share their story?

My partner of over ten years, who immigrated independently from Japan, exemplifies compassion and empathy. Through his influence, I have gained a deeper understanding of the importance of engaging in meaningful work related to queer cultural issues, social justice, and the challenges faced by marginalized communities. His support and guidance have been instrumental in shaping the person and professional I am today.

In what ways can visible Asian role models motivate professionals in your industry?

Seeing Asian leaders and professionals succeed in the industry provides tangible proof that career advancement is achievable, breaking down perceived barriers related to race or ethnicity. When Asian professionals see role models who embrace their cultural identity openly, it empowers them to bring their authentic selves to work, fostering greater job satisfaction and engagement.