Scholars continue to enjoy small group conversations with industry mentors. In this month’s virtual series, we welcomed the following mentors:
- Martina Fuchs, TV Anchor and Business Journalist
- Robert LI, Director of Harvest Global Investments
- Nini Suet, Founder & CEO of Shang Learning
- Cynthia Yang, Partner of XY Investment
- Chen ZHAO, Managing Partner of Plug and Play China
Martina Fuchs shared insights on current geopolitical trends related to COVID-19 and the global rise of sinophobia. She also discussed media bias and the importance of Chinese representation in critical global conversations, entertainment and news reporting.
Robert Li gave an introduction to ESG investing including a brief history of the evolution from socially responsible investing (SRI) to environmental, social and governance (ESG) as well as indicators and metrics used when determining whether to invest. Robert also discussed how investors drove the adoption of ESG investing in the West, while government regulators are driving ESG adoption in Asia, especially China.
“At the very beginning, my interest in education was demand driven. After doing market research, I realized education consulting was extremely fragmented and the sector lacked structure. Families in Chinese first tier cities wanted more tailored services than existing agencies provided. That is how I started Shang Learning.” Nini Suet shared her experiences from starting her new education adventure.
Chen Zhao provided Scholars a deep dive into the Venture Capital landscape in China. He highlighted the role that China’s characteristic “mass entrepreneurship & mass innovation” plays for potential entrepreneurs and the market. He also challenged stereotypes around finding an “ideal job” post-graduation.
“Life is like a box of chocolates. You never know what you’re gonna get. It’s important to keep an open mind when switching career paths.” Cynthia Yang generously shared her career story and advice she learned from Forrest Gump when switching careers from a doctor to investment banker.
