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We all have a long-term dream that we are pursuing. It could be turning one’s passion into a career, striving for a promotion, or seeking greener pastures in a different field.
Making one’s dreams a reality is tough work, but was made even tougher these past two years due to COVID-19, which upended our lives and plans as we knew them and brought on the shutdown of businesses and a global economic recession.
If you’re thinking about pursuing a financial career or contemplating to move into the banking industry, let’s delve into a variety of factors that constitute the region’s financial framework. These factors may help assess whether you’re ready to advance to the world of finance.
Hong Kong’s Financial Industry Profile and Current Trends
Aspiring financial analysts or specialists need to have a comprehensive understanding of the most recent trends that influence investments, the economy, and the sector as a whole.
As one of the leading financial centres worldwide, Hong Kong’s financial services sector is considered as one of the city’s economic pillars that created more than 270,000 jobs in 2019.
In 2020, the region ranked fifth in the Global Financial Centres Index (GFCI) released by Z/Yen Group and the China Development Institute. In terms of market capitalisation, the Hong Kong stock market ranked third among the largest in Asia and fifth in the world. Moreover, Hong Kong private equity is regarded as the second largest in Asia, with about US$160 trillion capital pool as of 2019.
The city manages a three-tier banking system classified into three types: licensed banks, restricted licence banks, and deposit‑taking companies. These banks differ in restrictions but may receive deposits from the general public. As of December 2020, there were about 161 licensed banks, 17 restricted licence banks and 12 deposit‑taking companies, and 43 representative offices of overseas banks in Hong Kong.
The fintech market consistently evolves, giving birth to virtual banks that affect customer behaviour, client interactions, and even operational processes. This 2022, the Hong Kong finance industry is expected to remain active in digitisation and emerging technologies. These upgrades aim to promote more efficient operations, improve the effectivity of speed-to-market strategy, and better meet the demands of customers while also improving customer service.
Banks are investing more in self-service digital channels via mobile applications and online banking to satisfy customers with new services. On the other hand, blockchain technology and cryptos like Bitcoin, Ethereum, Cardano, and Litecoin are slowly gaining traction in Hong Kong.
Moreover, Asia’s financial landscape is undeniably competitive in security, control, and information management, creating a friendly governance among end users.
The ongoing digital transformation is connected to almost everything else; other key trends that you should keep an eye out for include innovations in artificial intelligence and robotics, as well as changes in customers’ lifestyles.
Top Qualifications and Required Experience
If you’ve ever dreamed of becoming one of the financial managers of HSBC, Citibank Hong Kong, or any other of the world's most prestigious financial institutions, then you must possess the skills or experience to become one of those competitive executives in the future.
You will be assessed depending on your financial decisions and effectiveness in financial management, also referred to as financial literacy. Becoming a financial executive in Hong Kong means managing assets worth millions of dollars coming from multinational companies and investments.
Your proficiency in technology will also be tested including your professional communication skills and enhanced thinking skills when using high-quality IT products. Keep in mind that working in an international company is associated with handling sensitive customer information and processing huge volumes of data regularly.
For basic qualifications, you need to have a minimum of a four-year degree and advanced skills in business, mathematics, economics, or statistics.
Some bachelor's degree programmes offered by Hong Kong universities are Business, Accounting and Financial Studies, Corporate Administration, Professional Accounting, Quantitative Finance, Asset Management, and Private Banking, to name a few.
For those considering a Master of Business Administration (MBA), some of the recommended universities to enrol in are Hong Kong University of Science and Technology Business School, The University of Hong Kong - HKU Business School, and The Chinese University of Hong Kong - CUHK Business School.
Compensation and Benefits
The finance and banking industries are intense and dynamic as they are intertwined with economic factors that shift almost every day, adapting to new trends and perceived hazards. Despite the fast-paced environment, applications for financial careers are high because of the numerous benefits these offer.
Those working in global financial institutions may take advantage of various development opportunities including international travel and training in professional banking.
According to payscale’s salary for industry tool, here are the expected annual salaries(average base) of the following positions:
In a 2021 report from Human Resources Online, the market projection for this year revealed that higher bonus packages are expected from securities firms for mid-Q3. The wage increase applies to employees who are changing jobs.
Private bankers’ salary increased by approximately 20% to 25%, while those working in retail and semi-private wealth management banks ranged from 15% to 25% salary increment. Meanwhile, internal auditors who will switch employers this year will have a 15% to 20% wage increase and talents who specialise in global markets or treasury may demand a 20% higher salary due to shortage of workers.
Challenges and Hardships
As mentioned earlier, the finance and banking sector safeguard the assets and loans of the global economy.
When the COVID-19 pandemic hit, the financial services industry experienced the worst brought on by economic uncertainties. This resulted in a decline in revenues, an increase in the number of impaired loans, inconsistent cash flow and liquidity, and other negative effects.
Despite Hong Kong's regulatory response during the crisis, the region still faced challenges and hardships. According to an article published by Deloitte, banks in Hong Kong relied on the drawdown of loan facilities by clients, implemented a provisioning system on potential loan losses, maintained their minimum capital adequacy requirements, and narrowed their net interest income margin.
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Two years since our last catch-up with Caterina Bernardini de Pace, the General Manager of the Italian Chamber of Commerce in Hong Kong & Macao (ICC), The Beat Asia sat down in the Chamber’s new office and event space- espresso in hand, to dive into our rebounding economy and a bright future ahead for Italy-Asia relations.
Courtesy of the Italian Chamber of Commerce in Hong Kong & Macao
Following successful Italian National Day celebrations in June, the Chamber is gearing up for an eventful calendar, including their upcoming Annual Gala 2025 at Regent Hong Kong and Italy’s partnership with Hong Kong's Business of Design Week. Looking ahead towards the introduction of more in-depth professional services, business missions, and focused events for not just Italian business owners, but the wider ecosystem of those interested in trade between the Greater Bay Area and Italy, Caterina shares exciting insights on ICC.
Hi Caterina! It’s been two years since our last catchup, what are some of the Italian Chamber of Commerce in Hong Kong and Macao’s recent accomplishments you’d like to highlight for our readers?
Courtesy of the Italian Chamber of Commerce in Hong Kong & Macao
Wow, two years already! It feels like yesterday. In 2023, you caught me at a challenging time, just coming out of the pandemic. We worked hard, not only in Hong Kong but especially in Italy, highlighting Hong Kong’s opportunities and unique role as a gateway to the GBA [Greater Bay Area]. In recent years, we have focused on rebuilding the city’s image and our services. The Chamber’s focus has shifted from primarily hosting events to emphasizing B2B: business matching and commercial missions.
We completed three business missions in the past year alone, focusing on electronics, logistics, and innovation, with great success. That’s why we’re pushing these initiatives forward. Of course, last year’s Gala at the Regent Hotel was fantastic, and we also launched the first edition of our Business Awards.
Can you elaborate on the realignments the Chamber has made to its mission in 2025?
Courtesy of the Italian Chamber of Commerce in Hong Kong & Macao
There’s a perception of 'golden years'—2018 and 2019, when we had many events, which were wonderful for member engagement. But after COVID, we realized we couldn’t sustain ourselves on events alone. Networking and marketing remain crucial, but we’re now committed to delivering more value through diverse services.
Did you know we offer translation, site visits, HR services, and business matching? We connect Italian companies with the best partners we can find. We introduced a special membership discount for restaurants, recognizing F&B’s challenges during COVID. We aim to build a robust network of Italian restaurants and lend our support. Engaging young talent is another priority; students or workers, and Italians returning to Hong Kong, are welcome to intern or start their careers with us. Startups benefit from our employment and marketing services, and we recently introduced marketing services for China.
Can you elaborate more on Hong Kong being a unique entry point for Italian businesses looking to expand to China and Asia?
Courtesy of the Italian Chamber of Commerce in Hong Kong & Macao
Hong Kong is exceptional for business setup thanks to its efficiency. You can establish a company in a day or two, with minimal requirements. Strategically, it’s a gateway to China; now with high-speed rail, you can reach Shenzhen in less than 30 minutes. That connectivity is invaluable for businesses exploring Asian markets.
What’s a surprising fact about Italy-Hong Kong relations/Italian people in Hong Kong that most people wouldn’t know?
2025 marks 55 years of Italy-China diplomatic relations, a significant milestone. This year, we hosted several key visits: the President of the Republic of Italy, the President of the Senate, and our Prime Minister.
Despite differences, our cultures share many values, especially the importance of family. And wherever you go in the world, you’ll always find a pizza place and a Chinese restaurant—food truly brings us together.
In addition to business-focused events, what are some of the community initiatives the Chamber drives or takes part in?
Courtesy of the Italian Chamber of Commerce in Hong Kong & Macao
For the first time, the Chamber took part in HOFEX this May, Asia’s leading food and hospitality tradeshow. Hosting a dedicated booth, we represented four distinguished Italian companies, providing them with a high-visibility platform to showcase Italian products, network with regional buyers, and foster business partnerships. Our participation in HOFEX marked an important milestone, strengthening the presence of Italian cuisine, beverages, and innovation within the Hong Kong market and beyond. This involvement highlights our commitment to supporting members’ growth and advocacy in major industry events.
What exciting events do you have coming up for the rest of the year?
Courtesy of the Italian Chamber of Commerce in Hong Kong & Macao
Our signature event is the Gala in November, the culmination of our busy year. Seeing 400 guests enjoying themselves is always a rewarding experience. We welcome not only Italian organizations but any company interested in experiencing a bit of Italian style.
Italy will also partner with the Hong Kong Design Centre’s 'Business of Design Week' in December. We'll collaborate with the Italian Consul General to bring installations and large-scale design projects to Hong Kong for both November and December.
For a Hong Kong person looking to travel to Italy for the first time, which city would you recommend first time?
Now that direct flights are available, I’d certainly recommend Rome! It’s our beautiful capital, rich in history and sights. I’m from Milan, which also now has daily flights, and the city is thriving and blooming, especially in spring.
Any closing words for the community?
Trust in the work of chambers. We devote tremendous effort and have a fantastic team ready to help with any business matters. We’re here for everyone, not just Italians!
This interview has been edited for length and clarity.
Learn more about the Italian Chamber of Commerce in Hong Kong & Macao here, and follow them on Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn for more updates!
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Although we live in Asia's financial center, when you hear “FinTech conference,” your mind probably still jumps to suits, spreadsheets, and jargon-heavy panels. But Hong Kong’s FinTech Week x StartmeupHK Festival 2025 is rewriting that script. It’s a five-day cultural moment where finance, AI, and ambition collide under one skyline.
While the main conference will be held from November 3–4, 2025, at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre, the full FinTech Week x StartmeupHK Festival 2025 will run through November 7, marking the 10th anniversary of both events. Last year’s FinTech Week welcomed over 37,000 attendees, 800+ speakers, and 700 exhibitors from more than 100 economies. This year, the event is expected to scale up— but with the vibe remaining refreshingly human.
Instagram/ Hong Kong FinTech WeekInstagram/ Hong Kong FinTech Week
The theme, “Curating the New Fintech Era,” sets the tone for a future-forward experience. Attendees can expect 11 themed forums covering everything from AI and HealthTech to Web3 and Wealth Management. Alongside regulators and global policy leaders, the prestigious speaker lineup includes Nobel Laureate Geoffrey Hinton, Binance CEO Richard Teng, HSBC’s Georges Elhedery, and more.
What makes this event lifestyle-worthy goes beyond the tech. Immersive showcases and a new AI concierge named “Samantha,” who curates personalized schedules via WhatsApp or WeChat, bring a human touch to high-tech networking. It’s connection without the name tags, innovation without the intimidation.
For startups, the Global Fast Track program will spotlight semi-finalists from seven verticals pitching live on stage. It’s a glimpse into the next wave of lifestyle-enhancing tech, from sustainable finance to smart wellness platforms.
Courtesy of Hong Kong FinTech Week
“Start-ups are an important part of any economy. Behind every start-up, there must be an innovative business idea. These new ideas call for changes and refresh our economy. Apart from the favorable business environment in Hong Kong, the start-ups here are supported by a strong network of incubators and accelerators, a pool of experienced angels and venture capitalists, a host of government-backed programs, and a welcoming business community,” said Mr. Algernon Yau, Secretary for Commerce and Economic Development.
Instagram/ Hong Kong FinTech Week
Explore more at the event’s official website here, and you can follow their Instagram and Facebook for instant updates.
Location: Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre, 1 Expo Drive, Wan Chai
Hong Kong FinTech Week x StartmeupHK Festival 2025 Multiple venues Mon, November 3 9:00 AM
onwards
Celebrate a decade of innovation at Hong Kong FinTech Week x StartmeupHK Festival 2025, happening Nov. 3–7, 2025, across HKCEC and multiple venues.
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In a city known for its hustle, Preface is asking Hongkongers to pause, reflect, and take a bold first step into the future. The tech education company has launched “Just Start,” an initiative aimed at getting one million residents to begin their journey intoartificial intelligence (AI) with no jargon, no gatekeeping, but just accessible learning.
Courtesy of Preface
At the heart of the campaign is the AI-Q Test, Hong Kong’s first open-access AI self-assessment tool. It’s a five-minute online quiz that gauges your understanding of AI concepts like prompt writing and scenario analysis, then offers personalized learning recommendations. The goal is to turn curiosity into action and make AI literacy commonplace.
It’s worth noting that “Just Start” isn’t just digital. The campaign is backed by more than 30 organizations, including Google, Microsoft, Meta, Samsung, and Standard Chartered. Free public workshops are popping up everywhere from Central Harbourfront to different Preface Coffee & Wine locations, inviting people of all ages to learn in casual, everyday settings.
Courtesy of Preface
Preface’s Founder and CEO Tommie Lo describes the initiative as a cultural shift. “AI is fundamentally reshaping the way the world works and the types of talent it values. Learning AI is no longer optional,” he said. “Just Start is about breaking down the barriers to learning, encouraging more people to roll up their sleeves, step into the classroom, and take that first active step into a new era — helping Hong Kong build a culture of proactive, continuous tech learning.”
Preface’s collaborations also lead to perks that make learning feel rewarding. Standard Chartered offers Asia Miles for every dollar spent on AI courses, while WeLab Bank provides hassle-free installment plans to ease financial barriers. CHARGESPOT helps users locate nearby learning hubs, and the Melo AI-5000 program, run in partnership with Project Melo, will deliver free training to 5,000 secondary school students.
From content creation to career transformation, Preface’s courses cater to both kids and professionals. But the message remains universal: learning AI isn’t about keeping up but showing up.
Take your AI-Q Test now and learn more about the “Just Start” campaign via their website. Follow Preface on Instagram and Facebook for details about their public lectures, exhibition, and program.
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Getting a credit card in Hong Kong isn't just about convenience or making payments; it's a chance to enjoy rewards and treat yourself every time you spend.
Many banks in the city are offering exciting and bang-for-your-buck credit card offers with perks like cashback, special prices, exclusive dining discounts, and many more.
If you hold a few different credit cards or haven't paid much attention to pre-existing offers, continue reading to find out how you can maximize your credit card spending in the city and beyond!
HSBC Premier Exclusive: Buy-1-Get-1-Free Set Lunch or Dinner
Amber Hong Kong
HSBC Premier Mastercard Credit Card holders can treat themselves to an exclusive buy-1-get-1-free set lunch or dinner at top-tier restaurants across Hong Kong, including MICHELIN-starred favorites like Amber, Arbor, Man Wah, Mandarin Grill & Bar, Nagamoto, NOI, Sun Tung Lok, Rùn, and MORA. The offer also covers The Krug Room and Lawry’s The Prime Rib.
Available until Dec. 31, 2025 - this is the perfect chance to experience world-class dining for half the price!
Check out the deal listing below to find out how to make your reservation!
Enjoy 2 for 1 at Selected MICHELIN Venues with HSBC Premier Credit Card Multiple Venues Sat, November 1 12:00 AM
- 11:59 PM
Indulge in Michelin-starred dining with a buy-1-get-1-free set lunch or dinner, exclusively for HSBC Premier Mastercard® holders. Available at selected Hong Kong restaurants now through 31 December 2025.
American Express Exclusive: Up to 30% Off on Selected Restaurants
Cova Hong Kong
If you hold any eligible American Express® Cards in Hong Kong, enjoy the Special Dining Offer of up to 30% off at designated restaurants from Jul. 1 to Sept. 30, 2025, and their Year-Round Dining Offer of up to 25% savings at select venues from now until the end of the year, Dec. 31, 2025.
Reservations are required with mention of the offer usage.
Visit the deal listing below for the full participating restaurants list!
30% Savings on Seasonal & Year-Round Dining Offers with AMEX Multiple Venues Sat, November 1 12:00 AM
- 11:59 PM
Enjoy up to 30% off at selected restaurants this summer, or save up to 25% year-round with American Express Hong Kong dining offers. Perfect for foodies looking to dine smarter.
Visa Exclusive: Earn Up to HK$350 for Octopus on iPhone and Apple Watch
Visa / Octopus
From now until Oct. 31, 2025, Visa and Octopus are offering new and existing customers the chance to earn up to HK$350 Octopus Top-Up Value when using an eligible Visa card with Octopus on iPhone or Apple Watch.
Rewards include a HK$100 welcome bonus for new users, up to HK$150 for top-ups of HK$500 or more, and an extra HK$100 for new Mobile Octopus registrations made by Sept. 20, 2025.
Get Up to HK$350 Octopus Value with Visa Visa 12:00 AM
- 11:59 PM
Earn up to HK$350 in Octopus Top-up Value when you add Octopus to iPhone or Apple Watch and top up using your Visa card. Valid until October 31, 2025.
Mastercard Exclusive: One Dines Free
Jyu Bei
Who doesn't like free things? With Mastercard's One Dines Free offer, cardholders can enjoy a complimentary main course at one of their partner restaurants across major cities, including Hong Kong, Singapore, Tokyo, and Sydney.
Reservation must be made through the One Dines Free website and paid with by any valid Mastercard credit card.
Check out the deal listing below to see the full partner restaurants list!
One Dines Free: Enjoy a Free Main Course with Mastercard Multiple Venues Sat, November 1 12:00 AM
- 11:59 PM
Dine across Asia Pacific with Mastercard’s One Dines Free. Enjoy a complimentary main course at select partner restaurants when you book through onedinesfree.com and pay with your Mastercard.
DBS COMPASS VISA: Enjoy 8% COMPASS Dollar Rebate Every Wednesday
Instagram/ city'super
If you're not buying your groceries on a Wednesday then what are you doing? DBS COMPASS VISA cardholders can enjoy up to 8% COMPASS Dollar rebate every Wednesday!
All you have to do is spend a minimum of HK$300 or more at a local supermarket, and the rebates will be credited automatically.
Visit the deal listing below to find out the eligible local supermarkets!
DBS COMPASS VISA Super Wednesday: 8% Rebate Multiple Venues Wed, November 5 12:00 AM
- 11:59 PM
Earn up to 8% COMPASS Dollar rebate every Wednesday with DBS COMPASS VISA when spending HK$300 or more at local supermarkets. Automatic credit to your account—no hassle.
American Express Exclusive: HK$1 to Enjoy a Star Ferry Ride
One of the best ways to experience Hong Kong's iconic Victoria Harbour is by taking the Star Ferry. If you have an American Express® card, you can now enjoy Star Ferry rides for just HK$1!
Simply select "Pay by AMEX $1" at the turnstile of the Star Ferry and tap your card to redeem. Note that blackout dates apply so be sure to check before you board.
Unlimited Star Ferry Rides for HK$1 with American Express Card Multiple locations Wed, April 2 10:00 AM
onwards
Star Ferry for HK$1: Enjoy unlimited Star Ferry rides for HK$1 with an American Express Card. Valid on select routes from Jan. 2-Dec. 31, 2025. Terms apply.
Visa Exclusive: Save Up to 20% at HKIA on Selected Restaurants
Enjoy 20% at Selected Airport Dining Spots at HKIA Multiple Venues Tue, September 30 12:00 AM
- 11:59 PM
Get up to 20% off dining at Hong Kong International Airport with your Visa Infinite or Visa Signature card. Valid at select outlets from March 31 to September 30, 2025.
#TravelWithVisa: Receive Up to HK$800 on Flight Bookings
Visa
Until Dec. 31, 2025, eligible Visa cardholders in Hong Kong and Macau can enjoy up to HK$800 cash rebates when booking flights directly with Air New Zealand, All Nippon Airways (ANA), Ethiopian Airlines, EVA Air, or Singapore Airlines through their respective local websites.
For bookings between HK$4,000 and HK$7,999, travelers can receive an HK$240 rebate, and HK$800 rebate for bookings of HK$8,000 or more.
Your visa card must be registered before any purchase! Check out the deal listing below to find out how!
#TravelWithVisa Travel Rewards: Cash Rebates on Flight Bookings Multiple destinations Sat, November 1 10:00 AM
- 6:00 PM
Enjoy Visa’s #TravelWithVisa initiative rewards with cash rebates of up to HK$800 on bookings with five international airlines, with a whimsical hot-air balloon pop-up at K11 MUSEA.
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If you thought artificial intelligence (AI) was just about chatbots and creepy robot dogs, now’s the time for you to rethink. In fact, business leaders from China, Hong Kong, and Taiwan are giving AI a serious upgrade. The three markets are expected to dominate Asia-Pacific’s AI landscape, pouring US$102.9 billion into AI technology by 2028.
Courtesy of UiPath
According to a new IDC InfoBrief commissioned by UiPath, agentic automation is quickly becoming the secret sauce behind smarter, faster, and more resilient enterprises across Asia-Pacific. The report highlights a seismic shift toward agentic automation, the AI systems that don’t just follow instructions but make decisions, adapt in realtime, and orchestrate complex workflows across enterprise ecosystems.
Courtesy of UiPath
In the three markets collectively, 45% of enterprises have already adopted agentic AI, and another 42% plan to do so within six months. Not only that, but business leaders also aren’t shy about spending as 49% of firms are ready to increase budgets by 26–50% to deploy these intelligent systems, with expectations of 3x returns on investment (ROI).
Top use cases include customer service automation, real-time decision support, and productivity enhancement, especially in industries like retail, manufacturing, healthcare, and life sciences. But the road to AI dominance isn’t without speed bumps. Concerns around data security, talent shortages, and ethical governance remain top of mind.
Still, with strong leadership from CEOs, CTOs, and emerging Chief AI Officers, the region is well-positioned to lead the next wave of enterprise innovation. Taiwan’s government-backed digital infrastructure and Hong Kong’s tech-forward mindset make them ideal launchpads for scalable AI transformation.
So, while the debates circulate around AI ethics and existential risks, Asia’s power trio is busy building the future with artificial intelligence agents.
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Have you ever wondered what it takes to make it to the C-suite? We sit down with corporate leaders and changemakers to get to the heart of their success. What was their first job? What does it take to found your own company? All of these questions are answered in Executive Impact, our latest interview series that explores actionable advice, corporate social responsibility, and building a legacy that will have a tangible impact on the future.
Social impact intern turned Executive Director at one of the city’s innovative NGOs working to foster sustainable systemic change, Vivian Seo leads with “radical candor” and an unwavering commitment to the Foundation for Shared Impact (FSI)’s core philosophy. Connecting individuals and corporations with resources to impact-driven causes since its formation, FSI has successfully fostered a thriving ecosystem and growing force for good.
Fresh from a heartwarming and successful second edition of FSI’s annual Know Your GuideFongevent held in Tsim Sha Tsui in July 2025, The Beat Asia explores Vivian’s humble origins from the Foundation's first project manager to leading its expanded team today, working to be the city’s social impact superconnector. Naming herself a “professional generalist,” her skills and experiences are broad, successfully allowing her to bring together Hong Kong’s wealth of resources and social impact-minded individuals to build a thriving ecosystem driving sustainable change.
Photo from Website/Foundation for Shared Impact
Co-founded by serial social entrepreneur and professor at HKU Business School, David Bishop, the Co-founder of the Fair Employment Agency, Soap Cycling, and Migrasia, among other notable social enterprises, and Jon Pederson, the Director of Weava and Co-teacher at the Impact Lab at the University of Hong Kong, FSI was created in 2018 with the mission to help the city’s socially-driven people to scale their impact through knowledge-sharing, connecting individuals and resources, empowerment, and direct community action. This also involved the creation of an extended shared network for not only David and Jon’s social enterprises, but also the city’s vast ecosystem of ethnically diverse business owners and founders.
Today, FSI is home to multiple curated programs offering mentorship for ethnically diverse entrepreneurs, youth empowerment, corporate and leadership training, and many other community-driven solutions. From guided tours inviting locals to connect with the small business owners at the heart of Hong Kong, to volunteer opportunities, to training for NGO board members, the scope of FSI’s work is broad, and well aligned with their mission — “to be a one-stop shop for anyone who wants to do good,” in Vivian’s words.
Get to know Vivian’s unique professional journey from working at Goldman Sachs after graduation to returning to the social impact space, learn more about FSI and how you can get involved, and her personal advice for entrepreneurs. Kicking off the interview, we ran 10 questions from the Proust Questionnaire by Vivian:
1. What do you consider your greatest achievement?
I consider learning English my greatest achievement in life.
It really opened doors for me to connect more with people and feel at home in a country that I'm not originally from, and really let me break out of my comfort zone.
2. What is your idea of perfect happiness?
My idea of happiness is to feel safe in an environment where I have people surrounding me that I can trust, and sometimes be silly with. My idea of perfect happiness would then be being able to provide that kind of environment for someone I love.
3. What was your first job?
My first job was working as an English tutor!
4. When and where were you the happiest?
I'm the happiest now! And most recently, I made a trip to a countryside town I was raised in in Korea with my parents and some of my besties in Hong Kong. It was a really nice family feeling — that was one of the happiest moments in my life.
5. What is it that you most dislike?
I dislike any actions or words people use to judge others.
6. What is your greatest fear?
My greatest fear is not being useful to others.
My sense of achievement and fulfillment always comes from being practically helpful to others. This is a fear that I'm trying to overcome, but I still have it.
7. Which talent would you most like to have?
I would love to have a talent to recover fast and have a lot of athletic talent, for my own health!
8. What do you consider the most overrated virtue?
There's no virtue that I think is overrated, but if I had to pick one, I would say, maybe honor, especially blinded [honor] that is just kept for the sake of it.
9. Which living person do you most admire?
There is a YouTuber who's 73 years old who's a Korean called Milanonna.
She's the first Korean to study in Milan, Italy, in the 1970s. She’s a pioneer in the fashion industry and has brought multiple Italian Brands for the first time to Korea. The reason why I admire her is that she is an icon of breaking out of her comfort zone and being a YouTuber to share her life story. She gently suggests that everybody should be their authentic self and be comfortable with who they are.
10. What is your motto?
My life motto is to live as you like.
Courtesy of Foundation for Shared Impact (FSI)
Reflecting on your journey working as an intern at the Fair Employment Agency to your career at Goldman Sachs, to returning to the social impact space working at FSI and eventually transitioning to your current role as Executive Director, how does it feel to look back on your professional career and celebrate FSI’s growth?
I was born and raised in Korea and was really captivated by the idea that you can do something socially meaningful, but at the same time be commercially sustainable. I just thought that that made perfect sense; everybody should do something that benefits society, but still be able to survive.
I came to Hong Kong to study accounting and finance, but I knew I did not want to become an accountant or auditor. On my first summer break, I was scrolling through my emails, and there was this course recruitment message for the Impact Lab Course (formerly Social Venture Management Course), where students do an internship placement instead of coursework at a social impact organization.
Long story short, that course is something that our Co-founder, David Bishop, administers. Through that internship, I was able to work with the Fair Employment Agency.
After I graduated, I knew that I wanted to build more transferable skills, and luckily, I got into Goldman Sachs. That was great because they provide a lot of training, and it's an environment where you can develop a lot of soft skills. At the end of my second year, I was looking for an opportunity where I could feel more connected to the community in Hong Kong.
I had stayed in touch with David after graduation and learned that he had built the Foundation for Shared Impact (FSI) [in 2018] as an umbrella organization to facilitate resource management for his multiple social enterprises.
When he explained what FSI would be doing, I felt like it was meant to be. I would love to be in a position where I'm helping amazing people build amazing stuff.
I was our first project manager. And that's how I came to FSI four years ago!
Celebrating the growth from then, we now have five full-time hires growing to a group of nine paid staff!
I've seen FSI grow so much, and to be able to sit in a leadership position from last year in this organization that has so much talent, I'm just very grateful for the opportunity.
Courtesy of Foundation for Shared Impact (FSI)
How would you like to define your professional career?
I’m a professional generalist.
It used to be my biggest fear. I have so many friends who had a very specific dream, like “I want to be a doctor,” but I never really had that one occupation that I dreamed of.
Looking back, I think I was always excited by opportunities where I could be a facilitator or coordinator, building bridges. I might not be an expert, but being somebody who enables others to do something a bit more and maximizes others’ potential. That’s the kind of job I like to do.
What is a crucial piece of leadership advice you wish had been shared with your younger self?
I'm still telling this to myself now: just because you're sitting in a leadership position doesn't mean that you need to have all the answers by yourself.
The less experienced you are, the more pressure you feel you need to excel if you're given a leadership position. I think if you're in an environment where you can be a leader and you can still fail, that's the best environment you can be in. The important and powerful learning I got is that I should trust my teammates and also their trust in me- that there's a good reason for me to be placed in this position.
Congratulations on FSI’s annual Mentorship Program for Ethnically Diverse Entrepreneurs reaching its 3-year mark! What's a meaningful experience from this program you’d love to commemorate?
Courtesy of Foundation for Shared Impact (FSI)
I feel the most sense of fulfillment or achievement in those full circle moments — we have some mentees that we accelerated who want to come back to be a mentor. Those are the moments that I adore the most, when the community stays beyond the program, and they help each other.
That tells us that what we envisioned can really come true. We're trying to build communities that are reciprocal and supportive; we want to make sure that it's sustainable beyond just the program period. Watching these entrepreneurs exchange knowledge, share resources, help each other out, and grow together was a moment where we knew it could happen.
Adding onto that, what has been one of your most validating experiences or proudest moments that affirmed the positive impact FSI is making for you?
If we think about FSI as an organization, we work with corporate partners, corporate professionals, schools, and youth.
When young people come to us and say that they've changed thanks to our experience, that's a big moment for me. Youth work with us through internship placements, soft skills workshops, or other programs. They gave feedback that our experience broadened their horizons, and they were able to connect with a community that they'd never interacted with.
When they come to us, their experience changes their perspective and has an impact on their long-term career. We feel the heaviest responsibility because we know we have an impact.
Phoenix TV, Courtesy of Foundation for Shared Impact (FSI)Phoenix TV, Courtesy of Foundation for Shared Impact (FSI)
You have also reached 1 year since your appointment as Executive Director at FSI, how does it feel and looking forward, what impact are you looking to make?
It's a really humbling experience to be able to lead a team that consists of eight other people, some more experienced than me, coming from all different cultures and backgrounds.
Our name, Foundation for Shared Impact, kind of spoils it, but we are all in for collaboration. We're trying to spread the message and prove through our programs that the social sector doesn't have to be a zero-sum game.
We don't need to take from another to win. We can all thrive in an ecosystem that supports each other. Our organizational strategy is all about that purpose, where we're building programs that help the entire ecosystem of the social sector.
Can you elaborate on the value FSI provides your partner corporations?
To run a good company, you need to invest in people. For the current generation, a sense of purpose is something that drives people a lot.
That's where we come in because we have the expertise and the connections through which corporates can deliver community engagement and socially impactful programs for their staff. Some examples include skills-based volunteering opportunities or workshops.
Using GuideFong as an example, we bring volunteers on tours in multicultural neighborhoods to visit small businesses to use their skills in a different way. We work with law firms that provide legal support for our entrepreneurs and mentees. [We hold] workshops where you help an entrepreneur or social impact organization do market research or develop a financial model. Everybody has skills that they can give, so we're a conduit for providing that kind of opportunity for corporates.
We also deliver board director training to professionals. We’re a one-stop shop for any corporation that wants to do good.
How would you define FSI’s core values?
There are five pillars in our Shared Impact Philosophy. The first is broad collaboration, and the second is freely sharing knowledge and resources.
The third is data-driven impact models. We always value visible data like impact measurement. The fourth is seeking systems change, so driving impact that is long-term oriented and solving root issues instead of just a one-off bandage of issues.
The last one is a culture of radical candor, so making sure that we are transparent in the way that we communicate.
Courtesy of Foundation for Shared Impact (FSI)
For emerging entrepreneurs looking to tackle this tough market and make a difference, do you have a main takeaway to share with them?
Join a community.
If you're starting by yourself, it's a very lonely journey. That's why we built the mentorship program to create a community and help you find like-minded entrepreneurs that you can learn from and share resources with.
You are also an Executive at social enterprise Gowld Art Centre, can you share a little more about its mission?
Gowld Art Centre (GAC)'s mission is to provide an environment where anyone in Hong Kong can maximize their creative confidence by taking care of their body, mind, and soul using art as a medium to achieve self-actualization.
We have a lot of educational programs also in martial arts, so it's not just visual arts. It's a really diverse and hybrid space.
Photo from Website/Gowld Art Centre
Is there any crossover between your work at GAC and FSI?
Yes! Gowld Art Center is one of the many social impact organizations that FSI works with. They’re also part of the Impact Lab Course, through which they're getting university interns.
Life as an entrepreneur, especially for solopreneurs, can be quite hectic and time-consuming, what is your advice for business owners to stay true to their mission whilst prioritizing their own self-care?
It’s important you know your own cheat sheet on how to let go and relax. It could be travel, reading, or chilling at a café, but make sure you know what works for you and are using that method frequently enough to prevent burnout.
It’s really important you check your own reserve and battery to assess how much energy you have left so that you're preventing future burnout.
What self-care practices do you take part in?
My favorite would be reading outside in a café if the weather permits. I like creating things with my hands. I've been hopping between different hobbies: pottery, painting, and recently, I got into crochet.
What’s your favorite part about working in the social impact space in Hong Kong?
I love the people that I work with. I love being in a space where not just FSI, but all these other organizations that have their own social mission and vision are so passionate about what they do, and everybody brings their whole self to their work.
Courtesy of Foundation for Shared Impact (FSI)
What can we look forward to seeing from FSI in the future?
We want to be the go-to platform for anyone who wants to do something good, and they can come to us because they know that we have an opportunity that's suitable for them to bring their resources and skills.
For the Community Business Support Program, specifically for GuideFong, it's quite similar: anybody in Hong Kong who wants to support small businesses and small neighborhood shops can come to us and look for these [local businesses].
Last year, we tried getting a bit more visible by holding a bazaar. This year, we scaled up!
Courtesy of Foundation for Shared Impact (FSI)Courtesy of Foundation for Shared Impact (FSI)
We held a “Know Your GuideFong: TST Edition” event where we had a pop-up market at the Heath Hong Kong, the basement mall under Chungking Mansions. We had an afternoon-long treasure hunt where people were given a map of GuideFong shops they could shop from to redeem a prize.
We were especially excited for cross-sector collaboration to support these small businesses that are hidden gems in Hong Kong, that shouldn't be hidden anymore.
This interview has been edited for length and clarity.
Read more about FSI’s “Know Your GuideFong: TST” event held on July 6th, 2025 here.
Learn more about the Foundation for Shared Impact here, and follow them on Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn for more updates!
Enjoyed this article? Check out our previous Executive Impact profiles here.
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The results of the May 2025 International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme (DP) and Career-related Programme (CP) were released on Sunday, July 6, revealing another year of stellar performances by Hong Kong students.
While 202,103 students worldwide sat the exams with a global average score of 30.58, Hong Kong scholars significantly surpassed this with an impressive average of 36.72. Over 30 Hong Kong students earned the maximum score of 45, placing them among global top achievers (out of 2,630 total number of candidates).
“I’m inspired by the dedication, resilience, and compassion shown by IB students during such a complex time in the world. As IB graduates move forward—into higher education, careers, or service to their communities—they carry with them the competencies, values, and global mindset needed to thrive and make a meaningful difference.” Olli-Pekka Heinonen, Director General of the International Baccalaureate, said in a statement.
“IB graduates leave not only with knowledge, but also with the perspective and purpose to lead, serve, and shape a better world. We are proud of who they are and the impact they’re already making,” he added.
Photo by English Schools Foundation (ESF)
The English Schools Foundation (ESF) reported 15 perfect scorers among its 936 candidates, who achieved an average of 36.1 and a pass rate of 97.6%. Canadian International School of Hong Kong (CDNIS) saw two students score 45 points, with a cohort average of 37.7.
Singapore International School (Hong Kong) (SISHK), Malvern College Hong Kong (MCHK), St Paul’s Co-Educational College, and Po Leung Kuk Choi Kai Yau School each celebrated one top scorer and highest scores of 45 and 40.8 points. Victoria Shanghai Academy (VSA) also saw five students achieve 45 points, with an average of 37.6.
Among the city's top schools reporting exemplary scores were Carmel School Hong Kong, reporting a 100% pass rate and a cohort average of 38.1, Po Leung Kuk Ngan Po Ling College posting an average of 38.8, with two perfect scorers, St. Stephen’s College with seven students score 44 points and one student score 43 points, and Creative Secondary School (CSS) recording an average of 36.2.
IB is a globally recognized pre-university qualification designed to prepare students for higher education and beyond.
The Diploma Programme (DP) and Career-related Programme (CP) are two of its senior-level offerings, requiring students aged 16 to 19 to complete six subjects along with three core elements: the extended essay (EE), theory of knowledge (TOK), and creativity, activity, service (CAS).
This year’s exams marked the first major session under new IBO rules aimed at preventing academic dishonesty, including adjusted exam start times, a two-hour supervision requirement, and strict calculator memory clearing protocols.
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Hong Kong has been named the “Most Promising Muslim-Friendly Destination of the Year” by CrescentRating, a global authority on halal travel, during the Halal in Travel Awards 2025. The city also climbed to third place in the “Muslim-friendly Destinations (non-Organization of Islamic Cooperation)” category of the Global Muslim Travel Index (GMTI) 2025.
Organised in partnership with Mastercard, the Global Muslim Travel Index (GMTI) covers 153 destinations around the world and examines aspects including halal food supply, accommodation, Muslim-friendly facilities, and other travel-related factors to evaluate how welcoming destinations are to Muslim visitors.
Apart from their awards, Hong Kong also gained first place in the “Muslim-friendly Accessible Travel Destination (non-OIC)” category and second place in the “Muslim Women Friendly Travel Destinations (non-OIC)” category.
Courtesy of the Hong Kong Tourism Board (HKTB)
In addition to the city-wide recognition, various hotels, attractions, and venues were also honoured:
The Mira Hong Kong – Muslim-friendly Hotel of the Year
Kowloon Shangri-La, Hong Kong – Muslim-friendly Hotel of the Year
Ngong Ping 360 – Muslim-friendly Attraction of the Year
Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre – Muslim-friendly Convention and Exhibition Centre of the Year.
Dr. Peter Lam, Chairman of the Hong Kong Tourism Board (HKTB), highlighted Hong Kong’s efforts towards inclusivity by saying, “We have also facilitated the fostering of closer ties between Hong Kong, the Middle East, and ASEAN countries in recent years. HKTB thanks the Government for its full support and our trade partners for their efforts in elevating the city’s Muslim-friendly tourism facilities.”
Courtesy of the Hong Kong Tourism Board
The Hong Kong Tourism Board (HKTB) continues to spotlight the city and its development as a Muslim-friendly destination through a three-pronged approach of accreditation, education, and promotion.
Currently, about 190 eateries in Hong Kong have been certified, rising from the original 100 in early 2024. More than 60 hotels, attractions, and convention and exhibition venues have also been rated as Muslim-friendly.
The HKTB also continues to promote Hong Kong as a Muslim-friendly destination through a variety of channels and targeted marketing in Muslim visitor source markets.
Learn more about the Hong Kong Tourism Board’s (HTKB) efforts and Muslim-friendly offerings through DiscoverHongKong.com. Follow the Hong Kong Tourism Board (HKTB) on Facebook, X (Formerly Twitter), and Instagram for more information.
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As the hot days of summer approach, few things hit the spot quite like a tall, ice-cold cup of bubble tea.
2324 is a bubble tea shop that has found success honoring the tastes and techniques of the traditional recipes whilst finding innovative ways to incorporate new tastes and ingredients.
At its helm is Joyce Tsang, who juggles not one but two businesses—her bubble tea brand 2324 and boutique consultancy Joyce Tsang Content Marketing (JTCM). She has worn many hats, from dance instructor to journalist and editor, and now as a content marketing guru in Hong Kong.
Joyce regularly shares her insights on being a content marketer and small business owner through webinars that empower others to thrive as slashers and entrepreneurs.
The Beat Asia caught up with Joyce to hear more about her mission to make the best bubble tea in town and her advice for aspiring entrepreneurs aiming to make a mark in the F&B industry.
What inspired you to acquire 2324?
Courtesy of Joyce Tsang
In April 2024, I acquired 2324 Bubble Tea from two local entrepreneurs. My only F&B experience was working as a barista in university, and I hadn’t planned to enter the field.
Having run Joyce Tsang Content Marketing as a solopreneur for four years, I was eager to find ways to reduce my working hours while maintaining the quality of my services so I could scale.
However, anyone capable of taking over the work was either running their own business or beyond my hiring budget. As a result, I began exploring existing business systems that I could acquire and leverage to grow both my business and the entrepreneurial lifestyle I envisioned.
After considering common alternatives like affiliate marketing, e-commerce, drop shipping, and app development, I stumbled on business acquisition platforms. That’s when I came across 2324 Bubble Tea, which aligned perfectly with my criteria in terms of ease of takeover and budget.
Since the shop already had staff in place and I saw an opportunity to grow the brand using my marketing expertise—while also turning it into a case study for my consultancy—I took the leap and acquired the business.
Do you follow the traditional Taiwanese style bubble tea or are you branching out?
Website/ 2324
As a bubble tea shop owner, I believe it is important to honor the origins of the drink. That’s why we have preserved the traditional Taiwanese tea-mixing technique in our beverages.
For instance, we blend two different tea leaves for our signature black tea to enhance its depth of flavor—an approach widely used in authentic Taiwanese bubble tea. Additionally, our brown sugar formula is also derived from Taiwan.
Looking ahead, we aim to introduce more innovative drinks that stay true to the foundations of traditional Taiwanese bubble tea while incorporating local influences.
This means experimenting with flavors, introducing new ingredients that appeal to local tastes, and, most importantly, integrating elements of local culture. For example, many of our drinks are positioned as afternoon tea options, inspired by Hong Kong’s British afternoon tea tradition.
Tell us about your ingredients... Can bubble tea be a healthy option?
Instagram/ 2324
Our team is committed to delivering authentic flavors using real ingredients. We source our ingredients from a variety of suppliers to ensure consistent stock levels and maintain quality, even if one supplier runs out. We do not use any powdered flavorings—and we never will. While we understand the convenience of such products, this commitment is what sets us apart, even if it means higher costs for us.
When it comes to our fruit teas, you can expect real fruits and syrups—no artificial powdered formulas. The same goes for our cream cheese. Our staff prepares it from scratch, never relying on artificial powders. Our mixed fruits are sourced from Italy, and our cream cheese comes from Australia.
The bubble tea industry is highly competitive— how does 2324 stand out from the crowd?
For us, the attraction isn’t flashy promotions or discounts—it’s the experience of enjoying a bubble tea in a community-focused space. Our staff are friendly and attentive; they don’t just serve drinks—they build connections.
Customers recognize our staff and often stay to chat. This is the atmosphere we aim to create, which is why we have a bar table at the front of the shop to make it clear that we welcome people to linger, relax, and connect.
Our entire team understands that although we serve bubble tea, we are not interested in having a shopfront cluttered with posters, promotions, and an overwhelming number of drink options. This is why our shopfront is much cleaner than the typical bubble tea shop and why our menu is streamlined into five main categories.
Which bubble teas are your stand-out drinks on the menu at 2324?
Instagram/ 2324
One of the most exciting drinks on our menu is our French Toast Special Drink. Inspired by the local French toast flavor, my staff crafted a beverage version of it—allowing locals to experience a familiar taste in a new way. For tourists it’s an easy, on-the-go version of a dish they might want to try.
To celebrate the first anniversary of our rebrand since my takeover, we’ll be launching a Happy Birthday Cup.
This special release reimagines the tradition of buying and enjoying a birthday cake by transforming it into a convenient, drinkable format. I’m incredibly excited about this concept, as it perfectly aligns with our brand’s mission: to inspire and accompany meaningful moments with our customers.
Can you walk us through the creative process of developing a new drink concept?
Instagram/ 2324
What I’ve realized after speaking with people who have worked in the industry is that these decisions are often, if not always, made from the top down. We do things differently—we operate from the bottom up.
The bottom-up process has greatly helped minimize waste too. I was acutely aware of the amount of waste the previous owners were generating because they were too eager to experiment without considering the waste it would produce. To address this, I introduced a monthly special drink system.
At the start, my staff informed me that we had an excess of Aiyu jelly. We asked ourselves: What pairs well with Aiyu, and what ingredients do we already have on hand? In the end, the team created a series of Aiyu jelly drinks, including a Lemon Tea Aiyu Special that performed quite well. Ultimately, we sold out all the Aiyu jelly before any had to be discarded. I personally love this system—it gives customers something new to try while ensuring we reduce waste.
You’re passionate about helping aspiring entrepreneurs—what advice would you give to someone starting their own business, especially in F&B?
Given the current economic climate in Hong Kong, my blunt advice for anyone hoping to start their own F&B business is don’t do it unless you have another business that generates a decent amount of income.
Relying solely on an F&B business to break even and earn enough profit to keep it running is incredibly difficult.
Second, I strongly recommend starting without a physical shopfront and focusing on digital first. You can always open a shop later, once you’ve developed a minimum viable product (MVP) or gained valuable insights from your potential customers. Doing it the other way around—starting with a shopfront—is much harder.
Of course, nothing works these days without marketing. The reality is, you can’t rely solely on word of mouth or a good product to survive anymore. You must know how to market your brand effectively to stay afloat.
What’s next for 2324? Any exciting plans on the horizon?
Instagram/ 2324
We’re constantly exploring partnerships to extend our product offerings beyond our shop. This includes confirmed collaborations where our products and experiences will be featured as add-ons at various events. We have also just released our special 2-in-1 cup which is loved by our customers!
Looking ahead, we have exciting plans to explore more partnerships with venues, event organizers, corporations, and even weddings. We aim to position our drinks and experiences as an alternative to the typical wine and coffee offerings. So, stay tuned for more updates!
Location: 2324 Bubble Tea, Shop A2, G/F, Hoi Cheung Building, 72-74 Tai Po Road, Sham Shui Po
Opening Hours: Daily from 12 PM to 9 PM, Closed on Tuesdays
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In celebration of Women's History Month, we are shining a spotlight on Hong Kong's ethnically diverse women entrepreneurs and founders who are breaking barriers and redefining success. Among the organizations championing their achievements is the Foundation for Shared Impact (FSI), which empowers these women by fostering collaborations and opportunities.
Coming from diverse cultural backgrounds, these inspiring women are leading businesses in sustainability, tech, beauty, and F&B, proving that diversity is a driving force for change and progress.
Each of their journeys reflects the power of women and inclusivity in entrepreneurship, inspiring future generations to continue breaking barriers and leading with purpose and resilience. Continue reading to learn more about these incredible women!
Lucia Loposva, GREEN Hospitality
Lucia Loposova is a sustainability expert and educator with over 13 years of experience, dedicated to driving positive change in the hospitality industry. Originally from Slovakia and now based in Hong Kong, she founded GREEN Hospitality in 2021 to lead sustainability initiatives in strategy, training, and innovation.
GREEN Hospitality is a charity that offers programs, research, training, and industry events while empowering youth and hospitality partners to drive sustainable change.
Lucia and her team work closely with hotels, restaurants, and supply chains to implement responsible business practices, focusing on waste reduction, sustainable food systems, and carbon footprint management. She also collaborates with industry leaders, academia, and the government to promote sustainable tourism and net-positive hospitality.
To learn more about GREEN Hospitality and the programs available, visit their website and Instagram.
Lamia Sreya Rahman, Seekr by Vidi Labs
Lamia Sreya Rahman is a Hong Kong-born Bangladeshi tech entrepreneur, social justice advocate, and the city's first Bangladeshi lawyer. Her experiences navigating systemic challenges as an ethnic minority have fueled her commitment to advocating for equity, inclusion, and social impact.
As the Co-founder of Vidi Labs, Lamia and her team developed Seekr, an award-winning AI assistant designed to support the visually impaired and elderly. She leads business development, partnerships, and legal affairs at Vidi Labs, while also serving on the board and as a fellow of various impact, diversity, and equal opportunity organizations, including Migrasia and the Resolve Foundation.
Senchhelung Chemjong, also known as Senchu, is a Nepalese entrepreneur and law graduate. Upon her return to Hong Kong, she struggled to find opportunities in the legal field. Eventually, she founded Tagera Traders, a premium food distribution company, turning obstacles into opportunities to create her own career path.
Tagera Traders specializes in sourcing premium food and beverages, operating in both B2B and B2C models, including supplying organic Nepalese teas through its flagship brand, Nepcha. Nepcha partners with Nepalese farmers' cooperatives to source organic, high-altitude artisan tea.
With a focus on quality and exclusivity, the company is in the process of securing dealership rights to distribute a premium Nepalese apple wine.
To learn more about Tagera Traders and Nepcha, visit their Instagram.
Castro Luisa Tan, ILM Foundation
Castro Luisa Tan, also known as Nadia, is a multilingual Filipino-Chinese Muslim revert and dedicated community organizer. Before founding the Institute of Leadership & Management Foundation (ILM Foundation), she worked as a teacher, career counselor, media team advisor, and Child Development Fund Project Manager in Hong Kong.
ILM Foundation is a nonprofit dedicated to empowering ethnic minorities through skills development, social innovation, and collaboration. Since its establishment in 2021, it has helped build five start-ups, supported over 68 families through the Child Development Fund, and engaged over 3,000 students in various programs.
To learn more about ILM Foundation, visit their website and Instagram.
Jerwine Que, The Blomstre
Jerwine Que is the visionary Co-founder of The Blomstre, an eco-conscious brand specializing in individually hand-poured home fragrances. After working for 11 years in the finance industry, she decided to build a brand with her husband that blends her Filipino heritage and Hong Kong experiences into the business.
The Blomstre focuses on soy candles, essential oils, and room sprays. Inspired by Filipino artisanal heritage, the brand crafts its products in small batches using natural and organic ingredients. It also emphasizes sustainability by providing reusable, plastic-free packaging.
You can shop their products in both Hong Kong and the Philippines!
To learn more about The Blomstre, visit their website and Instagram.
Yulia Kim, Blooms Forever
Yulia Kim, Founder of Blooms Forever, turned her lifelong passion for flowers into a sustainable business after leaving the corporate world. Drawing from her multicultural background—having lived in Uzbekistan, Russia, South Korea, and now Hong Kong—and cherished childhood memories, she set out to build an eco-conscious brand that offers real, long-lasting flowers as an environmentally friendly alternative to fresh blooms.
Blooms Forever specializes in bespoke preserved and dried floral arrangements, blending sustainability with artistic craftsmanship. These long-lasting flowers provide elegant, low-maintenance beauty for various occasions and spaces, including homes, businesses, and special events, offering a timeless alternative to traditional floral arrangements.
To learn more about Blooms Forever, visit their website and Instagram.
Sneha Roy & Emmy Sandt, a collective space
Sneha (Sne) Roy and Emmy Sandt created a collective space in the scenic neighborhood of Mui Wo, where creativity and therapeutic practices come together. Sne, a psychologist specializing in marginalized communities, and Emmy, a skilled carpenter and designer, combined their expertise to highlight the therapeutic benefits of woodworking.
a collective space offers a safe and inclusive environment for self-expression and community building through a series of workshops and training sessions designed to enhance everyday living and working spaces.
To learn more about a collective space, visit their website and Instagram.
Maryam Khan, Foodie Explorez and Easy Eat
Maryam Khan is a foodie KOL who advocates for dietary inclusivity and Halal food. She founded Foodie Explorerz and Easy Eat, using content creation to raise awareness and support restaurants that accommodate Halal, vegetarian, vegan, and Jain food options.
Maryam shares her content in Foodie Explorez's website and Instagram Account, which has over 24k followers. Easy Eat, an extention of Foodie Explorerz, is a user-friendly platform that simplifies the search for suitable dining options through curated listings and filtering options based on dietary needs, cuisine, and location.
Mehroo Turel founded Mums@PLAY in 2017 as an events platform for mompreneursto showcase their brands, which has since grown into a vibrant community of women entrepreneurs. The platform is dedicated to supporting small business owners, particularly mothers, by providing a space where they can promote their products and services, connect with like-minded women, and grow their businesses—all while maintaining a work-life balance.
In addition to her work at Mums@PLAY, Mehroo is also a Professional Certified Coach (ICF-PCC), Certified Positive Intelligence Coach (CPQC), and Coach for Adolescents, specializing in personal branding and leadership development. As a board member of the Hong Kong Chapter of the International Coach Federation (ICF Hong Kong), she is committed to empowering women leaders and continues to create opportunities through Mums@PLAY.
To learn more about Mums@PLAY, visit their website and Instagram.
Jenny Au, FundFluent
Jenny Au, Founder and CEO of FundFluent, is an entrepreneur passionate about financial inclusion and breaking down barriers to funding for small businesses. Recognizing the struggles that SMEs and startup founders face in securing capital, she took a bootstrapped, self-funded approach to launch FundFluent in 2022, a platform that simplifies access to funding through technology and expert support.
Since then, FundFluent has helped over 1,400 businesses secure more than US$46 million in funding by providing an extensive funding database, step-by-step playbooks, and hands-on support from funding specialists.
To learn more about FundFluent, visit their website and Instagram.
To discover other founders and entrepreneurs supported by the Foundation of Shared Impact (FSI), check out their GuideFong directory here.
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