Member of the Order of Canada

• Awarded on: October 5, 2006
• Invested on: December 12, 2008

Mark Rowswell uses his extraordinary talents for comedy and language to build bridges of understanding between Canada and China. Dashan, as he is known by millions of adoring Chinese fans, is a cultural phenomenon, famous for his mastery of the complex art of xiangsheng, a form of witty repartee. He lends his fame in support of a number of charitable causes. In collaboration with the Canadian Cancer Society and various Chinese health organizations, he promotes the benefits of smoking cessation and healthy lifestyle choices. An unofficial ambassador for Canada, he has been uniting our peoples through laughter, understanding and goodwill for the past two decades.