Friends join forces to make a difference

Simon Chang and his dear friend Sandy Tedford have a standing phone call every Sunday to talk about their week, their lives and their worlds. Simon lives and works in Montreal while Sandy has retired and now calls the Dominican Republic home. “Sandy starts off each phone call saying, ‘Tell me the good news,’ to ensure that our conversations are upbeat,” said Simon. “We share ideas and talk about the world.”

One recent Sunday, the discussion turned to Simon’s philanthropy, and Sandy surprised him by saying that she’d like to support his Foundation’s efforts to recognize special people who are making a difference in the world.

Sandy is proud to partner with her friend as a sponsor of this edition of Inspirations’ Simon Chang Difference Maker award, recognizing Tyson Taylor of Leaps and Bounds Center for people seven years and older with autism, developmental delays or intellectual disabilities. Having had a very successful career as an international fashion buyer, Sandy is pleased to be able to give back in a way that encourages and honours positivity in the world. Her generosity, paired with the Simon Chang Foundation for Change, will make it possible for many young people to experience the Leaps and Bounds summer camp this year.

The two have been friends for nearly 50 years. They met early in the 1970s at the beginning of their careers when they both worked for the Hudson’s Bay Company buying office in Montreal, where Sandy was a fashion buyer and Simon a graphic designer. The two had an instant connection because of their similar outlooks and interests – a passion for fashion, films, travel and a love of discovering new things. Both are extremely inquisitive and independent people who celebrate creativity and uniqueness.

“Simon and I are both grateful for our successful careers and happy lives, especially since we have always remained true to our individuality and personal beliefs,” said Sandy. “I’m supporting Simon’s Foundation because it focuses its work to help individuals march to the beat of their own drum and who are changing the world in their unique and special way.”

At the peak of her career, Sandy’s home base was Hong Kong, which conveniently afforded much time to spend with Simon since his fashion business required him to regularly split his time between Montreal and Hong Kong. Over the years, the friends have been regular travel companions exploring the globe.

Simon and Sandy set an admirable example of a true friendship that has thrived on mutual respect and support, a quirky sense of humour, an appreciation for a changing world and all that it encompasses, but most of all for the belief that life is full of possibilities and that we have the power within us to create our own lives and bring positivity to the world and impact others.