For more than 30 years, Fred Lee has been the heartbeat of Vancouver’s social scene, a dynamic force who has made the city more vibrant, connected, and undeniably more exciting. Long before he became known as Vancouver’s Man About Town, Fred was simply someone who loved bringing people together.
Over time, that passion transformed into a calling, leading him to chronicle the city’s most glamorous events, fundraisers, and cultural happenings. His presence became synonymous with the pulse of Vancouver, his insights shaping how the city experienced its biggest nights.
Fred’s work has graced the pages of Vancouver Magazine, Vancouver Courier, National Post, Xtra West, and The Province, while his voice has carried through the airwaves of CBC. Whether highlighting a star-studded gala or an intimate community gathering, Fred has always understood that the essence of an event lies in the people who make it special.
Alongside his esteemed CBC colleague Margaret Gallagher, he co-hosted the national CBC Radio One food show Flavour of the Week, bringing a deliciously vibrant perspective to the culinary world.
A LIFE BUILT ON COMMUNITY
Joshua McVeity, Fred’s husband, is a talented photographer whose lens captures the world with artistry and precision. With a Bachelor of Design in Photography from the Alberta University of Art + Design, Joshua has built a distinguished career, contributing to Montecristo Magazine, Vancouver Magazine, and Western Living.
His visual work spans major campaigns for brands such as Harry Rosen, Hugo Boss, Ferragamo, Richards Models, Max Mara, Omega, and UBC. He currently brings his expertise to Emily Carr University of Art + Design, specializing in photography and printing technologies.
Together, Fred and Joshua share a deep love for Vancouver’s cultural life and a passion for travel.
“Joshua and I love to travel. Since we have been together, we have visited more than 17 countries together. We love exploring and discovering new places to eat and retreat. Maui will always have a special place in our hearts. Our first trip together was to Maui. We got married on Maui and we do our best to return every year.”
Despite their global adventures, home is where the heart is. “Where ever our travels take us, we always love coming home to Vancouver. A perfect day in the city would be a walk with Hunter in the morning with the perfect coffee in hand. Reading my favourite publications uninterrupted before a massage and light lunch. To cap off the day, a lovely dinner together or with friends at one of our favourite restaurants followed by a show.”
CHAMPION OF INCLUSION
Beyond the glitz and glamour, Fred has remained steadfast in his commitment to giving back. His dedication to community service extends far beyond the spotlight, with countless hours spent championing causes close to his heart.
As an auctioneer, he has helped raise millions for organizations in need, his signature energy turning bids into meaningful impact. His influence can be felt across numerous initiatives, including work with the Vancouver Chinatown Foundation, CLICK Foundation, and CampOUT!.
His mentorship has shaped the next generation of community leaders, ensuring that his legacy of generosity continues well into the future.
A cause especially close to Fred’s heart is CampOUT!, a four-day immersive student leadership program for 2SLGBTQIA+ youth across BC and the Yukon.
“A UBC Master student and his professor knocked on my door and presented their research project … a camp for queer youth,” Fred recalls. “They shared the wonderful outcomes and encouraged me to find a permanent home for it and keep the camp running.”
Energized by their vision, he mobilized his networks on and off campus, helping to turn the idea into a thriving, volunteer-driven initiative. “I am so proud of what we have accomplished and UBC’s support of the program.”
Since its inception in 2009, CampOUT! has welcomed more than a thousand youth to a space where they can build self-esteem, foster hope and resilience, and connect with resources to support their mental health and well-being.
“Given what is happening south of the border and even in pockets of our country, now more than ever, queer youth need spaces to feel safe, welcomed and supported,” Fred emphasizes.
Thanks to the generosity of donors, CampOUT! is offered free of charge, ensuring that financial barriers do not prevent youth from experiencing the outdoors, gaining leadership skills, and building lifelong networks of support. In 2024, the program celebrated its 15th anniversary and its 1,000th participant—powerful milestones that speak to its enduring impact.
As a board member of Chor Leoni, Fred has also played a pivotal role in elevating the choral group’s profile, fundraising and community engagement.
THE UBC CONNECTION
Fred’s impact extends deeply into the University of British Columbia, where he has dedicated 23 years to strengthening the university’s alumni network. As the Senior Director of Alumni Engagement at Alumni UBC, he leads a team focused on increasing engagement and building influence among UBC’s vast community of more than 60,000 students across two campuses and over 400,000 alumni worldwide.
He is also actively involved in promoting FORWARD, the campaign for UBC, an ambitious initiative launched in 2022 that aims to raise $3 billion in philanthropic support while doubling alumni engagement.
His tireless efforts in fostering inclusion were recognized in 2020 when he received the UBC President’s Staff Award for Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion. A former publisher of Xtra West, a news, arts, and entertainment publication for the 2SLGBTQIA+ community, Fred continues to contribute to numerous publications in the Lower Mainland, using his platform to amplify voices and tell important stories.
A LEGACY OF CONNECTION
Fred’s contributions have not gone unnoticed. He has been recognized on the National Post’s Worthy 30 list and has received numerous accolades, including an AIDS Vancouver AccolAIDS Award in Philanthropy and the Association of Fundraising Professionals’ Charity Champion Award.
His impact on Vancouver’s hospitality industry earned him a place in the BC Restaurant Hall of Fame, while his advocacy in healthcare and community support led to honours from Arthritis Research Canada, the Pacific Family Autism Network, and the Rotary International’s Paul Harris Fellow Award.
Fred’s influence is felt across countless spheres. In both 2024 and 2025, he was named to Vancouver Magazine’s Power 50 List.
Most recently, he was awarded the King Charles III Coronation Medal by BC’s Lieutenant Governor Wendy Lisogar-Cocchia, a mark of his profound contributions to the city and province.
When asked what the most rewarding aspect of his journey has been, Fred’s answer is immediate and heartfelt.
“The people. I have been so fortunate to meet so many incredibly caring individuals; good people doing good things for others; putting service above self. There are so many people deserving of the spotlight, and I am so grateful that for more than three decades I have had the opportunity to put a spotlight on them and the incredible work they do for our communities, our country and planet. One cannot help but be inspired to do the same and give back.”
Fred Lee has never been just an observer of Vancouver’s cultural landscape—he has been a creator of its most unforgettable moments. His warmth, generosity, and tireless enthusiasm have woven him into the very fabric of the city. Vancouver would not be the same without him, and thanks to his unwavering dedication, it never will be.
Author Profile
- Helen Siwak is the founder of EcoLuxLuv Communications & Marketing Inc and publisher of Folio.YVR Luxury Lifestyle Magazine and PORTFOLIOY.YVR Business & Entrepreneurs Magazine. She is a prolific content creator, consultant, and marketing and media strategist within the ecoluxury lifestyle niche. Helen is the west coast correspondent to Canada’s top-read industry magazine Retail-Insider, holds a vast freelance portfolio, and consults with many of the world’s luxury heritage brands. Always seeking new opportunities and challenges, you can email her at [email protected].
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