Thepphavanh (Tay) Chayathivong was born in a small village in Laos near Thailand. During the Vietnam War, her father was a rescue pilot. Their family was forced to leave and became refugees to Canada when she was very young. Canada welcomed them with open arms as well a safe new home with hope and unimaginable opportunity.

Later in her childhood, the Chayathivong family went through hard times, living in the Jane & Finch area in Toronto. At 11 years of age, Children's Aid took Tay and her older sister away where they eventually ended up in a foster home, in Grimsby ON. At 17, Tay decided to live on her own and has been independent ever since.

Tay loves being with her family and friends. She loves to dance, go snowboarding, fishing and definitely loves to draw. Currently, she's a happy intern at Chelsea Road Productions and going into her final year at Sheridan College in their world renown animation program. Her post secondary experience has taught her to become a well rounded artist and filmmaker. Because Tay has grown up with such a challenging childhood, it has made her passionate about improving the lives of people of all ages with moral values and entertainment.

Tay is known for being fun loving, compassionate and a determined individual. She loves putting a lasting impression in people's hearts with her skills in drawing, listening and cooking.

Tay's faith is very strong and she believes what doesn't kill you will make you stronger. You will always hear her say, "thank you God for always watching over me and listening to my prayers." She's very grateful to have her family, friends and everyone who has helped her grow to become the woman that she is today.

Source: http://www.beautiesofcanada.com/2008GTA/tay.htm