Calgary 
The Heritage Minutes series, a hallmark of Canadian culture since its inception in 1991, has added a new bilingual short film to its collection, spotlighting the life of Norman Kwong, CFL Hall of Famer and Alberta’s 16th lieutenant-governor.
Screenshot: YouTube Heritage Minute: Norman Kwong/Historica Canada
This Heritage Minute, sponsored by Alberta’s government and partially funded by the Government of Canada, was produced with over $88,000 from the Alberta Made Production Grant and the Training and Mentorship Incentive.
The one-minute video celebrates Norman Kwong’s journey from the son of Chinese immigrants in Calgary to a national sports icon and distinguished public servant.
Born in 1929 in Calgary to Charles and Lily Kwong, Norman discovered his football talent at Western Canada High School.
Breaking barriers in 1948, he joined the Calgary Stampeders, marking the start of a decorated career as part of the Grey Cup team and later with the Edmonton Eskimos – a stint that added another 3 Grey Cups and numerous records.
Kwong’s legacy extends beyond the gridiron: spanning roles in commercial real estate, sports management, and as a co-owner of the Calgary Flames, during which time the Flames won the Stanley Cup in 1989. His appointment as lieutenant-governor in 2005 marked him as the first person of Chinese heritage to hold the position in Alberta.
Filmed in Calgary, with contributions from local talents including Michelle Wong, Brent Kawchuk, and narrated by Andrew Phung, the film features Patrick Kwok-Choon portraying Kwong.
Per the news release, the initiative also provided training for 10 trainees in various film production roles.
Launched in 1991, the Heritage Minutes collection is an iconic representation of Canadian history, showcased across television, cinemas, and online platforms.
