Our Story
Our History
A Family Legacy in Fashion & Craftsmanship
Founded in 1964 as the Charles & Toy Chan-Kent Golden Wedding Anniversary Scholarship Fund, the Foundation was created to celebrate the couple’s 50th anniversary and honour the enduring Chan-Kent family legacy.
Born in Victoria, Charles Chan-Kent began his career as a merchant tailor, working in a small shop and along the railroads during their construction. His dedication and entrepreneurial spirit eventually led to the creation of Aero Garment Ltd., one of Western Canada’s oldest and largest family-owned clothing manufacturers.
As he built his business, Charles developed a strong belief in the power of education. Inspired by this vision, the Chan-Kent Foundation was established to support promising students pursuing careers in fashion, garment production, and the creative arts.
By investing in students early in their educational journeys, the Foundation helps nurture confidence, creativity, and essential skills for the next generation of designers. Charles’ passion for craftsmanship and commitment to education continue to shape the Foundation’s mission today.
Our Impact
Supporting the Next Generation of Creative Talent
For more than 60 years, the Chan-Kent Foundation has empowered emerging creative talent through bursaries and partnerships with leading educational institutions across British Columbia. To date, over 250 students have received support to pursue studies in art, design, and other creative disciplines.
The Foundation is proud to have supported students at institutions including University of British Columbia, Simon Fraser University, University of Victoria, Emily Carr University of Art + Design, Kwantlen Polytechnic University, and Vancouver Community College.
Each bursary reflects the Foundation’s ongoing commitment to helping students turn creativity, passion, and potential into meaningful lifelong impact.
Our Future
Supporting the Future of Fashion & Design
In 2020, the Foundation renewed its connection to Canada’s fashion and textile industry, expanding its support for students pursuing studies in fashion, textile design, and related creative fields.
Inspired by Charles Chan-Kent’s entrepreneurial spirit and legacy in garment manufacturing, the Foundation continues to champion craftsmanship, sustainability, innovation, and opportunity within the creative industries — while remaining dedicated to excellence across all areas of art and design.
As the Foundation looks ahead, its mission remains clear: to empower emerging creators with the support, recognition, and confidence to shape a more creative and inspiring future.
