International law man

In an age where globalization and the Internet has made the constraints of time and place largely irrelevant, Alex Yiu can truly be considered a citizen of the world.

The 2006 U of A law school grad’s life revolves around the different cultures and communities—locally and globally.

Alex was a co-founder of the International Law Society at the U of A, organized in 2004 to promote awareness and understanding of international politics, human rights and study opportunities overseas. “I found the society as a perfect way to bring together my passions for both the law and for helping others,” reflects Alex.

As an under-grad, he served on the Youth Council as liaison between the Aboriginal community and the City of Edmonton, and was French program coordinator with Students for Literacy. A landmark in his volunteer career was joining the Red Cross relief effort after the Boxing Day 2005 tsunami which killed an estimated 25,000 people in coastal regions of Southeast Asia. “When I saw the devastation on the news, like most people, I naturally asked myself what I could do.” Unable to fly to the region to help with ground efforts, Alex put his fundraising skills to good work as a local fund development officer.

Now, as a friend-raiser for Norquest College—he calls it “a hidden jewel”—he is committed to identifying partnerships, raising money, and elevating its profile. Alex is especially supportive of the role Norquest plays in the lives of many new Canadians by offering courses to upgrade their language skills that will assist them in re-qualifying in their chosen professional or trades fields.

In keeping with his interest in the world around him, Alex is keen on travel with trips to China, Australia, the United States and Western Europe under his belt. He has his sights set on visiting Eastern Europe and Africa, with a second tour of France in the works.

With all of his experiences, both personal and professional, it’s no surprise he loves to learn new languages—definitely an asset on visits to Paris, Moscow or Timbuktu.

By the way, did we mention Alex is a partner in Bosco Yiu law office? And a Big Brother? √

Photo by Mark Yiu