Golden Maple Leaf Gala 2025: Celebrating 50 Years of the CCCJ

On November 14th, 222  people dressed in beautifully coloured dresses, kimonos and black ties gathered at the newly opened Fairmont Tokyo for the annual Maple Leaf Gala, to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the CCCJ. Pre-festivities started with receptions on both the 4th and 43rd floors, each offering stunning views of the Rainbow Bridge, generously sponsored by Funeral Support Services and Northleaf Japan, respectively.

In the main ballroom, adorned with snowflake-like chandeliers sparkling as a golden anniversary should, CCCJ Chair Marc Bolduc opened the evening’s main festivities. The Honourable Ambassador Ian McKay led the room in a celebratory toast with sparkling wine generously provided by Evergreen Outdoor Centre, followed by music from Hisaka Sakai and a beautifully prepared five-course dinner featuring British Columbia salmon, Alberta beef, and wines. The evening was expertly hosted by MC Alex Hatton, who guided guests through the program with charm and professionalism, keeping the energy lively throughout the night.

The evening also celebrated remarkable contributions to the community. Ken Theriault was awarded the CCCJ Business Legacy Award for his outstanding work supporting the Canadian community in Japan—an emotional moment of reflection and gratitude. A bouquet was presented to Honorary Board Advisor and former Ambassador to Canada, Sadaaki Numata, and his wife Kyoko, honouring both their long-time contributions to the Chamber and, coincidentally, their 50th wedding anniversary.  Former Canadian Ambassador to Japan, Mr. Ian Burney also joined us, adding to the evening’s sense of history and community.

Platinum sponsor Air Canada generously provided two business-class tickets to Canada as a door prize for one lucky winner, alongside additional door prizes generously offered by Tokyo American Club and Fairmont Tokyo, as well as many other fabulous prizes in a competitive silent auction, including contributions from Hakuba Hospitality Group, and many more. 

Guests were entertained by Canada’s Got Talent finalist, magician Atsushi Ono, and business cards were exchanged throughout the evening while white and red wine from Adria flowed freely. The night culminated with dancing led by DJ Silverfox, bringing the celebration to a lively close.

We are grateful to all of our generous sponsors who helped make this milestone event possible:
Platinum: Air Canada
Gold: Manulife
VIP Reception: Northleaf Japan
Ruby: BMO, Dassault Systèmes, DLA Piper, EDC, Edmonton International Airport (YEG), Norton Rose Fulbright, Royal Bank of Canada
Cocktail Reception: Funeral Support Services (FSS)
Pearl: Bennett Jones, Invest Alberta, TD Securities
Media: Vanten

You will be able to read more about the Gala in the second edition of our two-part 50th anniversary series in The Canadian magazine, due out in early December.