Instructor Spotlight: Rudi Hwang
Rudi Hwang, Instructor of Kumon Math and Reading Centre of Toronto – Chinatown
Meet Rudi, Instructor of Kumon of Toronto-Chinatown. He’s been an Instructor for five years, but his journey began long before that.
Rudi is the son of veteran Kumon Instructor—Betty Hwang—who is celebrating her 26th anniversary with Kumon this year! He was actually a Kumon Student as a child—completing the entire Kumon Math Program. He later went on to work for his mother at her Centre for 10 years before she handed over Kumon of Toronto-Chinatown to him.
It’s safe to say that Rudi’s roots with Kumon are deep. In the first five minutes of talking to him, you’ll hear his passion and deep conviction of everything that Kumon stands for.
One of the things that he’s most passionate about is at the core of the Kumon Method—self-learning. We met up with Rudi and asked him to share his thoughts.
What inspired you to become a Kumon Instructor?
I really believe in the benefits of Kumon. As an Instructor, I can see the dramatic effects that proper instruction can have on children. They develop confidence, become true self-learners, experience success in school and potentially change the trajectory of their lives. It is a very rewarding career.
Does the fact that you were once a Kumon Student help you relate to your students?
Definitely. I know what it feels like and I have experienced the benefits of the Kumon program for myself. This program is excellent, I really believe it.
What is it about being an Instructor that you enjoy the most?
The process of it. There is a beginning when the families come in. There is the work to get them to understand, take a leap of faith and commit to this long-term routine. You are asking them to trust you with their time, effort and money—even if they may be skeptical at first. Once they commit, there are the ups and downs along the way. An opportunity to start building trust with each individual family. Then, when the big success comes—getting good grades, studying advanced material on their own—that’s the payoff. You’ve earned their trust. That feels good.
What is the most valuable lesson you’ve learned as a Kumon Instructor?
Always look out for the best interests of your families, and be honest with what you can and can’t do for them. That’s how you build trust and long-term success.
What is a fun fact about you that people may not know?
I collect Toronto Raptors bobbleheads and vintage tennis shoes. I have a lot.
What do you like to do in your spare time?
I play tennis a few times a week.
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