MANDARIN LEADER 2016
Volume 1
+ FEATURING
66 HONOREES WHOSE CREATIVITY, TALENT, AND ALTRUISM ARE RESHAPING OUR WORLD
暵ⵆ➝絏
⡙蜦㤙➃ ➭⟌涸䠑ծ㣔餻ㄤⵄ➭⚺⛐ ꅾ倝㝕鸣满䧮⟌涸⚆歲
봆㈇樣 KATHERINE KUNG A RISING FASHION STAR 傞㼿倝僤
RECOGNIZING EXCELLENCE AMONGST CHINESE IN NORTH AMERICA • ♧錢⻌繠⼶➃礵薉굥ꅷ
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“ Recognizing excellence in North America’s Chinese community ”
TABLE OF CONTENTS 学术
ACADEMIA
艺术
ARTS
企业
ENTREPRENEURSHIP
媒体
MEDIA
慈善
NON-PROFIT
未来领袖
中国通 合作伙伴 摄影师
EMERGING LEADERS
CHINA HANDS PARTNERS & CLIENTS PHOTOGRAPHERS
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学术 ACADEMIA Dali Yang Zijian Qian
艺术 ARTS Ta- Chiun Chou Andrea Louie Xin Song Kate Liu
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70 71 72 73 74 75 76 77 78 79 80 81
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83 企业 ENTREPRENEURSHIP Paul Lee James Liao Ding Ye Zhan Ye Tao Huang Jingyuan Wang Tek Min Gan Mike Cao Eddie Lou Lily Liu James Hong Shawn He Yuxun Michael Zhu Terry Guen Ben Pei Diana Tsao Hiram Kwan Bill Tan Savio Chan Charles Liang Xian Zhang Yiming Wang Ge Wang Jim Wong Kee Chan Katherine Kung
媒体 MEDIA Wendy Chou Hwee Peng Yeo Paul Cheung Joanie Lum Beibei Song May Tchao Fang Block
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84 85 86 87 88 89 90 91 92 93 94 95 96 97 98 99 100 101 102 103 104 105 106 107
32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 41 42 43 44 45 46 47 48 49 50 51 52 53 54 55 56 57
109 110 111 112 113 114 115 116 117 118 119 120 121
59 60 61 62 63 64 65 67 15
公益 NON PROFIT Janny Leung Jim Law Joanna Wang Michael Chu Karlin Chan Philip Wong Lily Chen Lisa Wong Sharon Hwang Tina Chu Courtney Fong Jan Zheng
未来领袖 EMERGING LEADERS Yuhan Liu Li Jing Gabriel Wong Edward Yang Daniel Xia Anne Fan Terry Li Paul Zhang Fei Wang Victor Kung Khai Yang An-An Ku Peter Le Anny Chou Santi Wong Yang Gao Xiao Chen Jessica Lee Weil Wu Jia Peng Chaoran Jin Lisa Wang Conlyn Chan Francis Wong
中国通 CHINA HANDS Brian Buchwald Eric de Fontenay Henry Fogel Jim Reiman Trace Ostergren Heather Joerger Charles Sullivan Andrew Reid Robert Collins Patrick Regan Joe Mallon Saul Gitlin
Welcome to the 2016 edition of Mandarin Leader. While our mission to recognize excellence amongst Chinese in North America remains unchanged, this year we have made some changes and are proud to bring you one national edition that includes honorees from across North America, in English. For access to digital profiles, please visit our website and facebook pages to see who’s making headlines, who’s winning awards, and who’s on the move. As Publisher it is a great honor to oversee this undertaking, and we look forward to getting together with you and each honoree throughout the year. John W. Robinson Jr.
欢迎您来到2016《名都领袖》,一个致力于认证展示北美 华人精英的媒体品牌。 今年我们做了一些改进,能够自豪的向您宣布,本刊涵盖 了全美范围内的领袖。 您可以通过我们的电子平台,官网和脸书看到有关于他们 的新闻,获奖等实时更新的信息。 作为出版人我很荣幸见证这一切,并与您共同分享未来这 一年华人精英们的动向。 罗浩 John W. Robinson Jr. Publisher
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Publishing another year of Mandarin Leader is a labor of love. As a proud Chinese American, nothing could make me prouder than highlighting the creativity and altruism amongst our community. The honorees in this publication represent just a select handful Chinese who are dreaming, building, disrupting, and pushing boundaries in business, engineering, media, non-profit, entertainment, and the arts. We have also included non-Chinese “China-hands” who are welcomed friends of the Chinese community thanks to their distinguished China-related pursuits. Lastly, I would like to express sincere gratitude to Candice Wang, without whom this project would not have been possible. Hamilton Chang
名都领袖第二年的出版是挚诚所致。作为一名华裔,没有 什么比突出我们华人社区里的创造力和奉献精神更令我 骄傲了。 领奖人是们包括商业,工程,媒体,慈善,娱乐,艺术等业 等行业中有梦想,有建设性,有改革力以及有勇气不断拓 宽边界的杰出代表。我们也表彰了在与华友好交流合作中 做出杰出贡献的美国朋友。 最后,我想对王之麒女士表达诚挚的感谢,没有她的帮助 这刊杂志便无法成型。 张申 Hamilton Chang Executive Editor
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学 术 ACADEMIA
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Dali Yang 勿㣐⸂
Professor of Political Science Faculty Director University of Chicago
Dr Yang is a Professor of Political Science and International Relations at the University of Chicago. Building off more than a decade of experience in educational leadership Dr Yang is a Founding Faculty Director of the University of Chicago Center in Beijing, which officially launched in 2010 to put the University of Chicago at the forefront of USChina education exchange and engagement.
What was your first job, and how did it shape your life? I was a part-time interpreter when I was in College in Beijing. It further opened my eyes to the wider world and led to my decision to come to the States for further study. What keeps you awake at night? I am a night kind of person and tend to read or write in the evenings. However, I don’t lose sleep because of worries. What books are currently on your bedside table? I consult lots of books for my research. But I also a variety of books that are not immediately related to my current research and I’ve been going through a number of social psychology books lately. What was the last present you gave someone? Secretary Hank Paulson’s book ‘Dealing with China’ What’s your view on money? Much good can be done with it. What is an extraordinary place you have recently traveled to? Zhangjiakou, north of Beijing
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What was your first job, and how did it shape your life? My first job in the United States was working as an Art Director in a gallery. The two-year experience of working with art pieces is a kind of spiritual dialogue between me and the works. Of course, the conversation with collectors helped me to have a better understanding of art out of the school. What keeps you awake at night? I usually sleep tight. Keeping calm makes a better life. What books are currently on your bedside table? Most of my readings are related to modern art. I almost finished Foucault’s Philosophy of Art: A Genealogy of Modernity by Joseph J. Tanke. I also read some books which are not art-related but really deep in thought, like A Tale of Love and Darkness by Amos Oz. When do you feel most free? Every time when I finish a project, like: an article, a show, or typing in students’ final grades into school system. It only lasts a short amount of time. After the break, I will start a new project really quickly.
Zijian Qian
What’s one thing most people don’t know about you? People can’t truly understand themselves. Everyone has different perspectives. Human life is a process of communicating, confronting, cooperating and compromising with oneself in different conditions, situations, contexts and moments.
䘋㗏
Assistant Professor of Art History New York City College of Technology, City University of New York Dr. Zhijian Qian is an art historian, critic, curator, translator, and art investment adviser. He got his doctor degree in art history at New York Academy of Art University. He is currently a professor in Art History at New York City College of Technology.
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芝加哥最具艺术影响力的画廊
a r t sp a c e 8 . c om 9 0 0 N o r t h M ic h i g a n S ho p s ( L eve l s 3 & 4 ) C h ic a g o , I l l i24 no i s 6 0 611
艺 术 ARTS
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What books are currently on your bedside table? My favorite books are too big for my bedside table as my library is filled mostly with art books from the masters such as da Vinci and Klimt. However my favorite book right now is on Cristobal Balenciaga… a true style icon. When do you feel most free? When I’m doing the things I love: traveling, gardening, cooking, painting, and creating. What was the last gift you gave someone? I gave a monthly floral bouquet for a year to my husband from a local Brooklyn florist, Sage. They have beautiful artistic designs with unique flower choices and they design them to match the vases I give them. What is your view on money? Money is like water - it is a necessity and keeps you hydrated, but it lacks the nursing substance of food. What is an extraordinary place you have recently traveled to? Icy Strait, Alaska. The majestic glaciers and coldest rain forest in the world were unforgettable as was the 1,300 foot vertical drop down the world’s longest zip line.
Ta-Chiun Chou
What’s one thing most people don’t know about you? I trained as a paratrooper. The first time I was in a plane, I jumped out of it.
ワ㣐ꛮ
Managing Director/Owner Design Determination
Through my company Design Determination, I’ve led numerous highend residential, retail and corporate interior projects. Current highlights include a 180-unit condominium in New York City, a high-end townhouse development in Greenwich Village and retail space for a premium luxury brand across their North American locations. Additional to interior architecture, I am currently launching a line of lifestyle products for major retail distribution. These signature hardware pieces merge classic functionality with modern design aesthetic. Finally, as I look towards 2016, I am excited to be collaborating with key business partners on large scale residential and commercial development projects in top regional markets. My work takes me across the globe from my home base in New York to San Francisco, Shanghai, Beijing, Taipei, and Los Angeles among other locations around the world.
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Andrea Louie ꨭ䛸⼶
Executive Director Asian American Arts Alliance
Together with my organization, the Asian American Arts Alliance, I am working to help create concrete pathways of access for Asian American artists in all disciplines to such cultural decision-makers as curators, artistic directors, and editors. It’s just not a level playing field out there, and, unfortunately, there are barriers to success in the arts due to race and ethnicity. I’m also trying to increase diversity and inclusion in the arts and cultural sector by working on arts policy issues and collecting demographic data about nonprofit arts organizations.
What was your first job, and how did it shape your life? I was a newspaper reporter in Ohio, and it was such an amazing experience to learn about the lives of so many people on a daily basis! I also learned how to read and write fast and think on my feet—skills that serve me every day today. What books are currently on your bedside table? The White Road: Journey into Obsession, by Edmund de Waal, and Who We Be: A Cultural History of Race in Post Civil-Rights America, by Jeff Chang What was the last gift you gave someone? A potholder in the shape of a chicken made from cloth that was woven on a special Japanese loom; the weavers were people with autism. What is an extraordinary place you have recently traveled to? The Hudson Valley in New York State. What’s one thing most people don’t know about you? I grew up on a farm in Amish country, Ohio, and, at one point, helped to castrate sheep when I was a teenager.
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Xin Song was born in Beijing, China. She graduated from The Central Academy of Fine Arts (CAFA), with a focus in Chinese folk arts. She has lived in New York City for a long time. She has a lot of public art projects displayed in the city. For example, Five Elements at Fashion Center Business Improvement District in Manhattan, New York, the permanent installation at Brooklyn D Line Parkway station, the one in the lobby of Brooklyn Elementary school, and the project make for the 100th anniversary of New York Central Station. Xin Song got lots of prizes and grants. Her artworks are frequently exhibited in museums, galleries and nonprofit organizations all around the world. Her recent shows are located at The Louvre in Paris in 2014, France, Athens Art Festival in Greek, China Museum in 2013, Flatiron Prow Artspace in Flatiron Building in New York, 2012, and Bulgaria Sofia Paper Art Biennale Show.
Xin Song 㸢ĺ&#x192;&#x2022;
Visual Artist Xin Song Studio
What was your first job, and how did it shape your life? My first job in the United States was patterned fabric design. I got access to all kinds of fabric, from ancient to modern. I see the similarity between Chinese traditional patterns and ones from other countries. What keeps you awake at night? Watching movies What books are currently on your bedside table? I Ching When do you feel most free? Working in my studio What was the last gift you gave someone? A paper-cut greeting card that I made What was the last gift you received? Blessings from family and friends What is your view on money? Money is not everything What is an extraordinary place you have recently traveled to? Greece
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Kate Liu
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What books are currently on your bedside table? I Really Should Be Practicing by Gary Graffman On Music by Alfred Brendel Inventing Western Civilization by Thomas C. Patterson When do you feel most free? When I have no deadlines or schoolwork!! What was the last present you gave someone? A stuffed toy pig What was the last present you received? A CD of my favorite pianist!!!!! Whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s your view on money? Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s great to have more, but it doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t buy true happiness What is an extraordinary place you have recently traveled to? Japan! Definitely one of the best places I have ever been to, with so many wonderful people! Whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s one thing most people donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t know about you? I love stuffed toys.
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企 业 ENTREPRENEURSHIP
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Paul Lee 勚⯕㛇 Chairman Intrestco
Paul M. Lee, Chairman of Intrestco, has over 40 years of experience as an entrepreneur in the Hospitality Industry, Real Estate, and Consulting business. He has owned, opened and invested in over 25 restaurant concepts over his long career. Intrestco manages and operates six concepts in the Chicago area and one in Cincinnati, Ohio. He currently serves on the Board of Directors for Chicago Chinatown Chamber promoting, advancing the visibility and commerce of the Asian business community in Chinatown.
What was your first job, and how did it shape your life? Actually, I refused my first job offer from Arthur Anderson Accounting firm and opened my first restaurant with my cousin. I realized then I wanted to be an entrepreneur and never looked back. What keeps you awake at night? When I have too much on my plate and trying to accomplish as much as i can then my mind is running a mile a minute it keeps me awake at night. What books are currently on your bedside table? The Road Less Traveled by Scott Peck What was the last gift you gave someone? It is better to give then to receive. What is your view on money? There are many that feel money is a measurement of success. Don’t live life chasing money instead work diligently and passionately at whatever it may be and fulfill your dream then money will be the by-product of your efforts. What is an extraordinary place you have recently traveled to? Brazil, Uruguay and Argentina.
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James Liao 㻙⥌し
Portfolio Advisor Energy Improvement Corporation
I’m the Portfolio Advisor to the Energy Improvement Corporation in NYS, a municipal-member corporation that provides financing for renewable energy and energy savings projects for property owners in NYS. In tandem, I am a board member of Asians In Energy, a California-based organization seeking to promote Asian leadership and participation in all energy sectors of California. I serve on various boards – Board Treasurer of Flushing Town Hall (a 300-seat theater and gallery venue), Secretary and Finance Chair of Villa Maria Academy (a Catholic Pre-K through Grade 8 school in the Bronx, board member of Asian Cinevision (the oldest Asian American film festival in NYC – over 35 years). As a serial entrepreneur, I recently co-founded Laff Lab Comedy Club in Flushing, NYC. Finally, as available, I am an Adjunct Professor at Skidmore College, lecturing on international business, and I guest lecture at the University of New Hampshire in various Finance courses on equity valuation and financial modeling techniques.
What was your first job, and how did it shape your life? A wire transfer clerk at a large NYC bank – only job I could find, even with a college degree in Finance during the NYC recession of the early 1970s. I was doing a “low level” clerical job, but one that is CRUCIAL (sending and receiving money correctly). I learned to respect my co-workers, every one who does their work with focus, diligence and, dedication.
When do you feel most free? Walking my dog in the woods, listening only to our footsteps What was the last present you received? The last present that I enjoyed receiving was a pencil drawing of a bird feather from an artist friend What’s one thing most people don’t know about you? I’m a published songwriter and poet
What books are currently on your bedside table? As I use an iPad for reading, all my books are at my bedside, but at the moment, I’m reading The Three Laws of Performance on how to revitalize organizations in which I am involved.
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Ding Ye 〽♨
Co-Founder Gamevision / Zing Games
What was your first job, and how did it shape your life? When I graduated from grad school, with a focus on computer art, I got a job at THQ, the fourth largest game developer in the world. My job was to make computer games. I was so lucky because my job was exactly what I learned in school.
What was the last present you gave someone? A series of characters from Doraemon toy, as a band. What was the last present you received? WeChat Red Pocket Money. What’s your view on money? There is a saying, “We can’t live without money, but money can’t create anything, either.”
What keeps you awake at night? Designing games is a stressful job. A lot of times I stay up late and fall asleep immediately when my head touch the pillow. I do not have much time to think of life.
What is an extraordinary place you have recently traveled to? I rarely travel these days. My journeys all happen in games, like in Witcher3, where I accidentally entered the secret water palace underground.
What books are currently on your bedside table? I just finished reading JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure. The book I read on the flight recently was Love in the Time of Cholera.
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Zhan Ye 〽㾝
Co-Founder Gamevision / Zing Games
Zhang Ye and Ding Ye are brothers who graduated from Tsinghua University. They were pioneers of game development in China, and they started two game companies in the United States, GameVision and Zing Games. The phone games they developed were downloaded over 6 million times, and won lots of prizes in the field. They are working on a new phone game with a subject about zombies and pinballs. Their goal is to publish it in 2016. They are also trying to explore the field of VR games
What was your first job, and how did it shape your life? My first job was working as a UX designer at a pioneer VR (Virtual Reality) startup company. This startup company was so generous, and they provided new employees condos as temporary housing, with additional half-month vacation. During my vacation, this company went bankrupt. I haven’t even stepped into the office the first time. Fortunately, the company gave me a flight ticket to go back to Chicago, and a paycheck for first month salary.
When do you feel most free? When I am on a business trip, I always visit local museums to see the masterpieces. What is an extraordinary place you have recently traveled to? Beijing Xifa Hai temple murals. I stayed in Beijing for 20 years, but I visited there the first time during my vacation last year. I held the flashlight and stepped in the temple. The view was extraordinary. I can’t describe it in words.
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Tao Huang 랕希
Managing Partner Rangelight, LLC.
Tao is a founding partner of Rangelight, llc, a private equity firm that focuses on investing small to medium size innovative firms. He is serving as an independent board member in several public traded and private owned companies including Armstrong World industries, Equity Life Style, Principal mutual funds, and SMS assists. He is also the vice chairman of Analysis international, a leading internet information firm in China.
What was your first job, and how did it shape your life? I designed the very first PC-based database program in China. That project earned me a 1 year scholarship to study in the US. What keeps you awake at night? Nothing whatsoever What books are currently on your bedside table? Red Notice by Bill Browder, Genome by Matt Ridley, and John Adams by David McCullough When do you feel most free? Fridays, knowing next two days will be free. What’s your view on money? Like it, but not enough to sacrifice anything for it. What is an extraordinary place you have recently traveled to? Great Barrier Reef . For the first time I thought that being a fish may not be a bad idea. What’s one thing most people don’t know about you? That I am shy
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Sam Wang 桬鵴
President Newdo Venture
NewDo Venture is one of the more active venture capital funds in North America. We have a total of more than twenty partner companies. I am a Yale University Sliver Scholar MBA of which there are only around 10 each year. I am an ACE certified personal trainer.
What was your first job, and how did it shape your life? The first paycheck I got was from working as a gym tutor. Tutoring people who have achieved a lot gave me a chance to learn a lot. What keeps you awake at night? Phone meetings with people in China, writing book reviews, and sometimes too much coffee in the afternoon. What books are currently on your bedside table? To be honest, the only printed book I have is Mandarin Leader When do you feel most free? At the gym and boxing hall. What was the last gift you gave someone? A bottle of Maotai What was the last gift you received? A box of tea What is your view on money? It’s just a number. Like the levels in games. Just to get enough credits to defeat the boss. The good thing is life is a game without an ending. What’s one thing most people don’t know about you? Most people do not know my name is Jingyuan Wang.
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We are launching Q-Town which will house Chicago’s largest incubator / business accelerator and the first US-China Center in US (Chicago). We promote US and China commerce and focus on early stage accelerated goto- market strategy planning and development for start-ups and SMEs with an emphasis in bilateral expansions, capital sourcing, partnership selection and due diligence. Our proposal creates a true and sustainable “innovation city & a global business gateway” branding and identity for Chicago.
What was your first job, and how did it shape your life? Commando Battalion Airborne Ranger Officer. Taught me loyalty, commitment, perseverance and teamwork What keeps you awake at night? A game of Chinese Majiang or Texas Hold’em Poker What books are currently on your bedside table? John Maxwell’s Good leaders ask great questions and Intentional living
Tek Min Gan 괃鶓字
Founder / Managing Director GX GROUP
What was the last present you received? A kiss of love! What’s your view on money? Money isn’t everything in life but we need it to change the world What’s one thing most people don’t know about you? That I’ve learned more from my failures than my many successes
What was the last present you gave someone? A dozen of red roses
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With a master’s degree in computer science and MBA, I am not the conventional guy in this high fashion modern Italian furniture world. However, as a Shanghai native, I always have an eye on design, good designs! In 2003, I quit my job in the computer software world and moved full time into the home furnishing business, starting with a small 500-square- foot store that sold home accessories, furniture and antiques. In the meantime, I recognized that there was a market niche for the high-end Italian furniture designs. Later on, in 2010, I opened Jesse Chicago which is now the Chicago area flagship store for Jesse Italy, and in 2011, I opened the Casa Spazio, which represents 10 Italian high-end furniture lines combined. I believe in designing first, selling second. I don’t just sell merchandises. Instead, I enjoy working with customers, listening to and understanding their needs and priorities, and providing comprehensive solutions. I take every project as my own project. In this coming year, we will have a very sophisticated e-Commerce presence. Time has changed, so has the luxury home furniture.
What was your first job, and how did it shape your life? My first job was a college teacher of Information & Technology at Shanghai University. Being a teacher, I learned to be patient, and that has helped me in training employees after I created my own company.
Mike Cao
What keeps you awake at night? Almost nothing keeps me awake at night. I used to be bothered and kept awake by unresolved issues. Nevertheless, after many years, I have gradually learned not to let issues be part of my life once I get home.
剆䋞梟
What books are currently on your bedside table? Content Marketing by Andy Crestodina When do you feel most free? I work every day. In the morning, I spend 30 minutes at the coffee shop before arriving to the showroom. This 30 minutes give me time to think quietly before a chaotic day starts.
Owner & President Casa Spazio Inc. Owner & President Home Element Inc. President River North Design District (NPO).
What is an extraordinary place you have recently traveled to? Milan, Italy What’s one thing most people don’t know about you? I am a very hands-on person, from software programming to physically unloading containers.
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Eddie Lou is the CEO and co-founder of Shiftgig, a digital marketplace that connects people to work shifts on a mobile device. Shiftgig is one of the fastest growing technology companies in Chicago and has raised over $35 million in venture capital. A year ago, the company served Chicago and New York City; today, it is in 9 markets and will be scaling to over 20 markets at the end of 2016. Besides Shiftgig, Eddie also serves as a national board director in One Goal, the non-profit he cofounded. One Goal makes college graduation possible for thousands of urban youth.
What was your first job, and how did it shape your life? Busboy at a restaurant where I learned the importance of showing up on time, customer service and the value of a dollar. What books are currently on your bedside table? “The Hard Thing About Hard Things” by Ben Horowitz When do you feel the most free? Competing on a bike or during an aquabike race (formerly triathlons) because I’m moving fast and there isn’t a worry on my mind. What was the last present you gave someone? I surprised my beautiful wife with some hand lotion and a scented candle. What was the last present you received? A Steelers baseball cap.
Eddie Lou 䴘⠭㪭 CEO and Co-Founder Shiftgig
What is an extraordinary place you have recently traveled to? The Alhambra in Granada, Spain What is the one thing most people don’t know about you? I came 2nd place in an Ironman race. I actually came in 700th place but I raised $42,000 for charity which was 2nd place most fundraised.
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Lily Liu
蛁蛁
President Lily’s Talent Agency President Lidi Real Estate LLC President Foundation of Artists Mentored in Entertainment (F.A.M.E.)
At my talent agency, I am currently updating agency policy, employee manual, and preparing for our next newsletter that will be going out to our clients and talent At my Lidi Real Estate LLC business, I am preparing to close on couple more investment properties to add to my real estate portfolio. For Foundation of Artists Mentored in Entertainment (F.A.M.E.), NFP, 501 C3 organization which I founded in 2010, I am working on our next F.A.M.E. Venue held on 6/25/16.
What was your first job, and how did it shape your life? At 16 years old, I worked for my parent’s Chinese restaurant; taking phone orders, handling the cash register, and waitressing. This experience has helped me in many ways from communication, people, math and service skills.
What was the last present you gave someone? A Heart Broche with various stones and colors. What was the last present you received? Coffee mug with photos of my 2 grandsons. What’s your view on money? Money is to be shared with my love ones.
What keeps you awake at night? I think about family, business, friends, and community services.
What is an extraordinary place you have recently traveled to? Costa Rica.
What books are currently on your bedside? Books by Danielle Steele, Nora Roberts, and Mary Higgins Clark.
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What was your first job, and how did it shape your life? My first job in Hollywood was an amateur one. I appeared on the Groucho Marx TV quiz program called YOU BET YOUR LIFE. The audience wrote in and as a result I got the second biggest fan mail ever on Groucho Marx’s program. That change my whole life and career. I received offers from nightclubs because I was very funny in Groucho’s show. Also I was picked up by an agent, Bessie Loo Agency and a writer helped me write some materials. However, I did finish my college education and received my degree in civil engineering. I practiced engineering for a while, but I changed my career to acting. What keeps you awake at night? I sleep fairly well, but my sleep apnea and my ambitious nature makes me have nightmares. However, these nightmares and dreams have become part of my tools and resources for acting and writing scripts. What was the last present you received? I received a very artistic figurine/statue of Mr. Ping of Kung Fu Panda 3 from DreamWorks Studios. They gave this to me because they felt I did a very good job doing the voice for Mr. ping, Father of Po. What is an extraordinary place you have recently traveled to? I have traveled within the United States recently, but the most exciting and extraordinary places I have visited in my life is China just after the Cultural Revolution. Also I was very lucky to have traveled to the remote parts of Russia just after the Republics broke up; and of course, South Africa was an amazing country which I visited. What’s one thing most people don’t know about you? That at this present moment, I can still get up from this computer and do the breakdance. Maybe one of these days I will throw a great big party and we can all dance. Let me hear from you if you would like to join me. Hooray!! Live life while you can!!!!!!!!!!!!!
James Hong
鑸㨖倛v峿
President & CEO UNIVERSE II PRODUCTION, INC., PAN PACIFIC PICTURES LLC
James Hong’s career in Hollywood has spanned nearly six decades and over 500 film and television roles. With a wide range of skills, he has portrayed the evil villain to the good guy with equal poise. Hong was born in Minneapolis, Minnesota. He’s has lived in Hong Kong 4 years. He graduated from USC and practiced civil engineering for the County of Los Angeles. Over the one and a half years he worked as an engineer, he continued to perform in movies. His first feature, Soldier of Fortune with Clark Gable which led to Blood Alley with John Wayne and then Love is a Many Splendored Thing with William Holden among others.
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Recently entered the real estate industry after having co-launched the first China master franchise for a top US realty, with the goal to train and foster a new generation of real estate professionals and companies as China’s housing market matures along with its middleclass. Will also continue to help guide developments associated with prior M&A activities in various industries, such as fashion accessories and cleantech. Last but not least, as an advisor involved with the Broadway industry, I look forward to helping advance the partnership with China’s performing arts industry to the next level in 2016.
What was your first job, and how did it shape your life? I worked as a strategic management consultant in my first job. It enabled me to acquire a solid understanding of the business fundamentals (as someone who graduated with a BS in molecular biochemistry and biophysics, that is). What keeps you awake at night? Before I go to bed: where I am and where I need to go in work, in business, and in life; After I lie down in bed: NOTHING! Absolutely nothing is allowed to keep me awake. If there has to be something, it’d better be about people I love and care about the most... What was the last gift you gave someone? Tieguanyin tea.
Shawn He Yuxun
What is your view on money? Money is a carrier/medium in which values follow and/or are exchanged. If you create value, then money will gravitate towards and follow you, like water. When in a desert, every drop counts. When presented with a river or ocean, it is not the amount-but what it will do to you or how you utilize it-that matters.
⡦㸙鴽
What is an extraordinary place you have recently traveled to? The Mark Twain House. What’s one thing most people don’t know about you? That I can juggle while break dancing.
Managing Partner Newlight Capital
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I am a serial entrepreneur, who is extremely passionate about art, culture and technology. Huayuan Art is a global initiative driven and inspired by traditional East Asian art and culture. We seek to share and spread appreciation of the artistic and cultural wonders conceived in Asia. Meanwhile, we’ve successfully built a New York based co-working community that emphasizes the importance of technology and culture. It is a habitat helps entrepreneurs, startups, and young professionals achieve their goals and make real impact on the world around them by leveraging best resources from our collective network of individuals spanning the globe between China and U.S.
What was your first job, and how did it shape your life? Tour guide. The whole learning experiences provided me special privileges and knowledge that taught me how to solve the problems appropriately and timely as well as the interpersonal skills. What keeps you awake at night? Soccer matches
Michael Zhu
What books are currently on your bedside table? “The Hard Thing about the Hard Thing” When do you feel most free? Appreciating the arts What was the last present you received? Suzhou Embroidery
劫⹄
What’s your view on money? It cannot buy the really valuable things, such as health. What is an extraordinary place you have recently traveled to? Lanzhou
Managing Director Huayuan International (USA) Investment Co.,Ltd.
What’s one thing most people don’t know about you? I am nostalgic
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Terry Guen, FASLA, is President and Founder of Terry Guen Design Associates, located in Chicago USA. She is a recognized Site Architect and Ecological Urban Designer, and was appointed by President Obama as Advisor to the United States Federal Government on matters of cultural heritage preservation. A Fellow of the American Society of Landscape Architects, Terry is chief designer and planner for many famous large, complex urban redevelopment projects, including Chicago’s Millennium Park, New York City’s 5.5 mile Hudson River Park and Boston, and Massachusetts’, Charles River Basin. “Design for Life” is Terry’s company ethic, to integrate nature into urban design, and transform the harshest environs into highly desirable, financially and environmentally sustainable places to live. In July 2016, Terry will be in China as international advisor to China-based firms on Sponge City initiatives. Interested firms are requested to contact TGDA directly.
What was your first job, and how did it shape your life? I grew up in the suburbs of Boston, Massachusetts. My first job was as a volunteer teaching swimming to small kids when I was 12. After this, my sophomore year high school summer, I 1) Learned to sail a small boat on the Charles River, 2) volunteered to tutor new Chinese immigrants for the US Citizenship test, and 3) worked part time in my Aunt’s shop in Chinatown. This pretty much mirrors my life balance; a love of nature and sports, giving back to the community, and working in fine arts and design. What books are currently on your bedside table? A non-fiction book on bees. I aspire to read this book, but always fall asleep first.
Terry Guen
What was the last present you received? A bouquet of flowers, from my three sons, for my birthday! They thanked me for sending them across the seas.
ꣁ㗛䡹
What is an extraordinary place you have recently traveled to? I climbed the stairs up inside the Duomo (cathedral), Florence Italy. You can see the master fresco paintings inside the ceiling dome at close range. At the top you go outside and can walk around for a panoramic view of the city and countryside. Florence is so un-commercial. It is gorgeous.
President, Principal Terry Guen Design Associates, Inc., Chicago, USA
What’s one thing most people don’t know about you? I play piano, but generally not in public!
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Ben Pei 醍✻䂽
What was your first job, and how did it shape your life? My first job was not really my cup of tea, but it helped me eventually become permanent legal resident of U.S ,which is fundamental to enable me to pursue my American dream What keeps you awake at night? Unfinished projects, as I am sometimes a workaholic.
Managing Director OS Depot
What books are currently on your bedside table? Poems and Essay of Zhu Ziqing, the renowned Chinese writer and Poet When do you feel most free? Midnight, when I listened to music What was the last present you gave someone? A tea pot What was the last present you received? Chocolate
Benjamin Y. Pei is a global traveler, seasoned international trade executive with cross-culture sensitivity and multi-lingual skill . Ben has 20 plus years of expertise in outsourcing and supply chain management . He graduated from SISU , a renowned university in Shanghai, China and later he came to U.S pursuing his graduate school and earned his Masters degree with focus on International business in late 80’s . He is currently semi-retired , but still holds the position of Managing Director of Outsourcing Depot , a China-based supply chain management company with an office in the U.S.
What’s your view on money? Money is magic. What is an extraordinary place you have recently traveled to? Mykonos in Greece What’s one thing most people don’t know about you? I am a very determined goal-getter.
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Diana Tsao 剆㸝㸝 Founder Diana Tsao Events
A native New Yorker, Diana always has a sense of urgency. For many years, she worked at American Express (in New York and Singapore) and created Centurion “Black Card” events. Three years ago, she started an event management company. She produces custom experiential events to help companies achieve their customer acquisition, retention and loyalty objectives. Currently, she is developing a sailing experience for a private jet client and producing a brand relaunch event for a financial services company. In 2016, she wants to work with more companies and individuals from China on unique and exclusive events. When she’s not working, she lives to eat and travel.
and said it was the best service they every received!
What was your first job, and how did it shape your life? Cold calling thousands of small businesses one summer selling a foreign exchange payments service. I learned perseverance.
What was the last gift you received? Champagne club subscription. Every few months bottles from private estates are delivered with a description of the family, tasting notes and the grape varietals. It’s a surprise every time!
What books are currently on your bedside table? I don’t read books frequently anymore, I do read online everyday through outlets like BBC, Business Insider and Eater. When do you feel most free? When I’m biking or in a gym class. There are no distractions except what you have to focus on in the moment.
What is an extraordinary place you have recently traveled to? Aspen. I went skiing, dog sledding and one night after the mountain closed - took a snowcat up for dinner on top of the mountain.
What was the last gift you gave someone? Personal stylist for a friend who was always confused about their wardrobe. Stylist revamped their closet and took them on a curated shopping spree. They loved it
What’s one thing most people don’t know about you? I’ve been to 47 countries, including Greenland, and know 5 languages to varying degrees. And that I can bike in a cocktail dress.
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What was your first job, and how did it shape your life? Assist professor at USC school of commerce teaching finance real estate law, Corp finance and investment banking, business. After teaching at USC, I was able to apply to USC school of law to obtain my J.D. . Since I served in the US Army as a B-24 bomber I was given veteran status under the GI bill and the government financed my tuition through law school which I would not have been able to afford otherwise. I did well in law school due to the fact that I gained confidence from my teaching experience. What books are currently on your bedside table? Reference books and various fields of law including law review articles technical writings electrical engineering computer science. What was the last present you gave someone? To help a friend, I purchased a nail salon shop as a gift to a close friend. What’s your view on money? Allows one to help others.
Hiram Kwan
What’s one thing most people don’t know about you? Commander of Chinese American legion post 628 in LA after WW2 - hosted flying tiger American legion post of China and the American legion post in LA that allowed us to lobby congress for increase of Immigration quota so service men can join their wives and children to come to the U.S. as perm residents and obtain citizenship. This lobby effort increased the quota for all war veterans. We were able to increase the quota from 105 quota year 1942
Ⱒ絶⯕ Attorney at Law Hiram Kwan
I am a certified immigration law specialist attorney. I work on cases involving perm residents, through client’s US. citizen relatives, employment based applications, monetary investment in factories manufacturing of durable and non durable goods all pertain to legislation of USA congress. In addition of acquisition of perm residents I also represent aliens seeking temp entry into USA for employment, study in schools, professional areas. I help my clients and guide them to obtain professional degrees so clients can file with US Dept of labor and immigration service under the Immigration quotas.
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I started a new project in 2016 to address the “30 Million Word Gap”. Research has shown that children in poor families are exposed to 30 million fewer spoken words by age 4. This issue is especially prevalent in immigrant families where there’s a language gap between grownups and children. My team of linguists and engineers has developed a wonderful e-book reader that can turn any book into a bilingual reading experience, so that parents can read stories to their young children in many language pairs, such as English-Spanish and English-Mandarin. We will be launching this product later this year. Another thing I’m looking forward to doing more of in 2016 is meditation.
What was your first job, and how did it shape your life? I’ve always run my own business. One of our very first projects was for Sesame Workshop, helping young children deal with emotional stress in the aftermath of 9/11. The experience has inspired me to develop several projects to support early childhood development.
Bill Tan
What keeps you awake at night? Lots of new ideas, and realizing that there’s not enough time in the day to pursue them. What books are currently on your bedside table? A New Earth, by Eckhart Tolle When do you feel most free? When I’m sitting by a lake or an ocean.
靲굱
What was the last present you gave someone? A jar of locally produced honey What was the last present you received? An anthology of love letters
Founder Transcendent Endeavors, LLC.
What’s one thing most people don’t know about you? I’m taking Argentinian tango lessons.
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Savio Chan
꣥㼱㸪
President & CEO US-CHINA PARTNERS
Savio Chan is a leading global authority of Chinese consumers and US-China partnerships. He serves as CEO of US China Partners and author of the Amazon best-seller, China’s Super Consumers, published by Wiley. Besides helping many global retailers and brands create strategies on marketing to Chinese consumers, he is working on create a joint-venture partnership between a large US retailer and a Chinese leading department store right now.
What was your first job, and how did it shape your life? My first job is making donuts at Dunkin Donuts from midnight to dawn. It was my first job to help paying for my college tuition and I did that while going to school full-time. I learned from that experience how to connect with people from all walks of life, from the truck drivers to CEOs, which shaped my balanced world view.
What was the last present you gave someone? A nice dinner for my friend’s family at the best Chinese restaurant on Long Island. What was the last present you received? A Brioni cashmere jacket. What’s your view on money? It is a nice servant but an ugly master.
What keeps you awake at night? Nothing keeps me awake at night. One of my rare gifts is the ability to fall sound asleep in five minute anywhere in the world in any bed. That serves me so well and I am truly grateful.
What is an extraordinary place you have recently traveled to? Malaysia – it was such a nice multi-ethnic and vibrant country with great Asian foods.
What books are currently on your bedside table? “How to Have a Good Day” by Caroline Webb – just a wonderful book of behavioral science combined with smart, world-class translation for every professional.
What’s one thing most people don’t know about you? Most of my friends know that I am a good Karaoke singer.
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Charles Liang is owner of Loving Hut Claremont Restaurant and AHPUSA. He has been promoting healthy lifestyles for over 20 years by offering organic vegan foods and health supplements. His vision is that all of us should switch to a plant-based diet and go organic so that we can living healthier and longer, plus our earth’s environment can go back to being a sustainable, less polluted place. Charles is currently working on franchising out his restaurant models in different ways to add in more services to customers, both locally and on line, such as specialty foods for diabetic and customers with heart issues. Charles is a leader in healthy food and healthy lifestyles.
What was your first job, and how did it shape your life? I worked for China Agriculture Trust and Investment Corporation. My job was to find agricultural development projects to invest into. That experience provided me a foundation for my life long pursuit, which is to provide healthy food to people.
Charles Liang
What keeps you awake at night? The suffering of peoples’ health and the life of animals disappearing from world forests. What books are currently on your bedside table? Various books about healthy diet, organic farming, restaurant development, and The formulation and production organic supplements.
咿姻
When do you feel most free? When I do my exercise and meditation everyday. What’s your view on money? If we use it to benefit more people besides ourselves and our family, then it will be very positive.
President Loving Hut Claremont Vegan Cuisine
What’s one thing most people don’t know about you? I am a Peking opera singer.
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What was your first job, and how did it shape your life? My first job involved selling expensive cutlery to people who didn’t need them or want them. I was in high school and I was told I would make $10 per hour plus commission by just doing jumping jacks with my customers. It was an effective sales tactic, I was told. $10 in 1993 was a big deal so I was really excited. What keeps you awake at night? I sleep like a log. What books are currently on your bedside table? “Shark Fin and Sichuan Pepper: A Sweet and Sour Memoir of Eating in China” by Fuchsia Dunlop. When do you feel most free? I’m a morning person and I feel most free when I get up at 7:30am and go for a jog. What was the last present you received? For my birthday last year Yiming took me to Danny Meyer’s newest restaurant, Untitled. It was a lovely evening and I was stuffed. After dinner I wanted to go back to our restaurant, China Blue, since it was a Friday night and I was a little worried. As I showed up the restaurant was half empty as it was past 10 o’clock. Out of nowhere staff from Café China and China Blue popped out with three birthday cakes and sang the birthday song for me. I was really surprised. Yiming had planned it all along and executed it perfectly.
Xian Zhang
What’s your view on money? Don’t get greedy. Nothing good will come out of it. What is an extraordinary place you have recently traveled to? In 2014 we went Yunnan, China. It was an amazing place. The terrain was so varied and difficult that the province boasts 23 different minority ethnicities living in villages that were still pretty well preserved.
䓎䓛
What’s one thing most people don’t know about you? When I was growing up I wanted to become a zoologist.
Owner China Cafe
Currently I am working on our next restaurant concept, as well as continuing to strengthen our current ones. Also, I’m going to try to visit as many interesting places as time allows, and try out different foods around the world.
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What was your first job, and how did it shape your life? New York Time. I cannot imagine a better way to start my life in NYC. The sharp and deep analysis made me easier to become a New Yorker. What keeps you awake at night? I’d love to think and reflect during night. That’s the perfect moment for me to design the details in China Blue & China Café. That’s also why people think the design is so special. What books are currently on your bedside table? Hong Lou Meng, and books from Ailin Zhang. When do you feel most free? Design, music and literature will bring me the feeling of freedom. There is also some moment made me feel most free when I meet interesting people and know them. Freedom is all about understand and be understood. What was the last present you gave someone? A Steinway to my partner/husband. What’s your view on money? Money is fair to the entrepreneurs. Money gives you the most directly feedback if you did a god job. What is an extraordinary place you have recently traveled to? I went back to Chicago one week ago, which place I lived and studied before. The beautiful city is even beautifier then before. What’s one thing most people don’t know about you? I have two kids, myself and Xian Zhang.
Yiming Wang
桬䚃僈 Owner China Cafe
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Ge Wang
桬䧢
President & Creative Director ESQ Clothing
As the Creative Director of ESQ, I am constantly looking to provide more unique products for my clientele. ESQ will be adding more lifestyle inspired pieces in 2016.
What was the last present you gave someone? I gave my current girlfriend of 4 years a quick vacation to Jamaica. Next present will be considerably smaller (but more meaningful).
What was your first job, and how did it shape your life? I worked in a smoothie shop at my local gym as a high school junior and quickly learned that money does not grow on trees. That job is still a reminder to this day that nothing in this world is free, and that everything must be earned.
What was the last present you received? I received a very nice watch from a dear friend.
What keeps you awake at night? A lot of things keep me up, but definitely the majority of it is work. Not only am I speaking to persons in China, but also being an entrepreneur means work is never over.
What’s your view on money? Money is hard. And money cannot make you happy. But we all want it. What is an extraordinary place you have recently traveled to? My childhood home in Beijing. The feelings I get cannot be put into words.
When do you feel most free? I enjoy my free time when I am able to work out before heading to the office. It’s nice not having a phone and any distractions.
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As a company, we’re working to fulfill our 2018 Vision of becoming the leader in every business, niche and market that we serve. Each day, we strive to achieve our Mission of making people’s lives better and that includes our clients, candidates and colleagues. Personally, I work towards being a good husband to my wife and a good father to my two children every day.
What was your first job, and how did it shape your life? My first job was a bus boy at a local restaurant. It taught me to work really hard and to always do my best. It also taught me about service and how important it is to work well with others. What keeps you awake at night? My two boys keep me up and night…and our new puppy, Coco. What books are currently on your bedside table? The Price of Privilege by Madeline Levine, PhD When do you feel most free? I feel most free when I’m with my family. What was the last present you gave someone? I gave my son a hover board for his birthday. What was the last present you received? I received a Marian Hossa (No. 81 on the Chicago Blackhawks) NHL jersey What’s your view on money? Money is how I keep score of my business ventures. However, it can only provide you with material things and financial security – it cannot provide you with happiness or fulfillment.
Jim Wong
What is an extraordinary place you have recently traveled to? I recently traveled all throughout Alaska with my family. What’s one thing most people don’t know about you? I was not a good student as a young adolescent. In fact, I received poor grades in high school. I was a really great basketball player, though!
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Kee Chan ꣥䎧㣼
Chef and TEAM OF DARK CHEF Keyconcept Design
“What will food be like in five years…? What will you be eating in five years? Plate your Dream!” This project is aiming to give a platform for ideas outside the box, creativity is the base, and passion, of course. The result will be a 5 course dinner menu, designed and executed by new talents. Participants will have all of our staff and equipment at their disposal, to make their food dreams become reality and share their creations with real customers in real time!
What was your first job, and how did it shape your life? As an accounting person during day time an in a restaurant Santori, a Japanese fine dinning in Boston.
What is your view on money? Money is a power tool to do what you want to do. It’s really important.
What keeps you awake at night? Nothing. When I go to sleep, I sleep right the way because I believe my brain needs to rest, I have done all [the] duties of the day.
What is an extraordinary place you have recently traveled to? Las Vegas. What’s one thing most people don’t know about you? That I like hot dogs! (Smile)
What books are currently on your bedside table? Philosophy & quotes books. What was the last present you received? A bottle of Red Chilean wine and chocolate
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Katherine Kung, originally from Hong Kong, created her namesake brand according to Eastern tradition, which dictates that the family name precedes the given name. Kung moved to the United States in her teens and went on to study Fine Arts and Fashion Design at School of Visual Arts and Fashion Institute of Technology in New York City. Her skills and knowledge were further cultivated through apprenticeships at several design houses such as Reem Acra and most notably and formatively Oscar de la Renta. In 2013, Katherine founded KUNG KATHERINE, which is exclusively manufactured in the Garment District of New York City. As an avid traveler, Katherine combines traditional Eastern influences with innovative Western sensibilities as well as her international exposure and social surroundings to achieve a refined and timeless aesthetic. She feels most rewarded when designing custom-made bridal and evening wear. “I believe that women look their best when dressed in timeless, well-fitted and comfortable works of art.”
What was your first job, and how did it shape your life? I was a sales associate at Operation, a clothing boutique in Soho NYC. It taught me about hands-on customer service. What books are currently on your bedside table? The Path – What Chinese Philosopher Can Teach Us About the Good Life, by Michael Puett and Christine Gross-Loh
Katherine Kung
When do you feel most free? When I connect with the present moment. What was the last present you gave someone? 1Q84, by Haruki Murakami What was the last present you received? A painting by John Dante Bianchi, a New York based artist.
륬㎗楧
What is an extraordinary place you have recently traveled to? Mongolia – what a beautiful piece of land! Everyone must visit. What’s one thing most people don’t know about you? I did kickboxing (Muay Thai) for 7 years, I can throw some real punches!
Creative Director KUNG KATHERINE
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꜂瀖⠶⡹
槮樷♧欰 NUMINED.COM 58
媒 体 MEDIA
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Wendy Chou ワ謵ば President & CEO CHOUmedia
I am fortunate enough to be embarking on my seventh year in business at CHOUmedia, a communications firm serving mostly small and mid-size organizations focused on the intellectual property space. We partner with companies to develop tailored marketing and media strategies to help them grow their businesses. I also have a second event-based business and this year, we’ll be developing our third annual IP Dealmakers Forum bringing together the most influential group of investors and intellectual property experts. Additionally, I was recently elected President of the New York City Hemophilia Chapter, an organization that aims to improve the lives of those affected by bleeding disorders. So far, 2016 is shaping up to be a very busy but interesting and exciting year!
What keeps you awake at night? There are many things that keep me awake at night but one of the most significant is access to care – continued access to care for my kids and others with bleeding disorders in our country, as well as better access or just basic access to care for others with bleeding disorders around the world. I am constantly thinking about ways to truly make a difference in these areas. What books are currently on your bedside table? I’m always reading several books at one time. Currently I’m in the middle of reading – A Tree Grows in Brooklyn, The Dancing Wu Li Masters, What is the What, The Last Town on Earth, and Mao. When do you feel most free? I feel most free when I’m on a long run in the park, when the wind is blowing through my hair and I’m clearing my mind of all the day’s worries.
What is your view on money? I prefer the ancient bartering system, but since most people use money these days, I usually carry at least one credit card and some cash in my pocket. What is an extraordinary place you have recently traveled to? I was recently in Goa, India with my family. The entire experience was super cool and somewhat surreal, almost like being in a Technicolor Bollywood movie with all the colorful and vivid imagery. What’s one thing most people don’t know about you? People assume I’m an extrovert because of my profession, so most are surprised when I tell them I’m an introvert. The truth is when I’m not working, there is nothing I enjoy more than being in a quiet place by myself reflecting on life and love.
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A Singaporean with more than 18 years’ experience in the hospitality industry in Asia, Hwee Peng drives Glodow Nead Communications’ expansion in Asia with a wealth of strong experience and industry expertise. She has consistently engineered highly successful, strategically targeted media campaigns throughout the Asia Pacific region for international hospitality, real estate and lifestyle clients and plans to continue to do so in 2016 and beyond. Hwee Peng also hopes to enjoy more vacation time with her family and some artistic time for herself.
What was your first job, and how did it shape your life? My first job was as an intern to the cost analyst at the former Westin hotel in Bangkok. After the three months’ internship, I became a full time employee at the hotel as their human resources coordinator. Working overseas for my first job showed me the need to learn fast, the importance of a social network when living overseas and how much more you learn outside of school!
Hwee Peng Yeo
What books are currently on your bedside table? On becoming Child Wise by Gary Ezzo and Robert Bucknam; Monocle magazine, and End of Watch by Stephen King.
勿䢴蟢
What was the last present you gave someone? A box of Bendaroos (flexible bending sticks) for my daughter What was the last present you received? A beautiful tea cup from my colleague who just came back from Vietnam on vacation.
Vice President Glodow Nead Communications
What is an extraordinary place you have recently traveled to? Yangon. So much growth and opportunities in this emerging city in the land of Myanmar. This will be Southeast Asia’s next boomtown. What’s one thing most people don’t know about you? I am pretty good at ping pong and basketball!
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Paul Cheung 龨俒罆
Director of Interactive & Digital News Production Associated Press Paul Cheung is AP’s Director of Interactives and Digital News Production. In 2016, I’m focus on innovating storytelling in Virtual Reality and various social platforms.
What was your first job, and how did it shape your life? My first job is working for my dad in his Chinese take out restaurant. What keeps you awake at night? Not much. I put my worries aside so that I can recharge my brain. What books are currently on your bedside table? I have my ipad mini on my bedside table with various news apps like AP, The New York Times, NBC etc. When do you feel most free? When I’m at the beach What was the last present you gave someone? Airline miles for a free ticket What was the last present you received? A new wallet What’s your view on money? Can’t buy you happiness What is an extraordinary place you have recently traveled to? Rome What’s one thing most people don’t know about you? I organized my shirts from light color to dark color.
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Joanie Lum is an Emmy award winning television news reporter, currently working for FOX 32 News in Chicago, covering breaking news, crime, politics and features, live on Good Day Chicago. She is active in the Asian American community and serves on the Advisory Board of the Chinese American Service League, the Midwest’s largest social service agency.
What was your first job, and how did it shape your life? My first job in television was as a news producer and reporter in Cape Girardeau, Missouri. I learned how to ad-lib for long periods of time and how to recover from all kinds of mistakes. What books are currently on your bedside table? His Way, The Unauthorized Biography of Frank Sinatra by Kitty Kelley; Running With Walker by Robert Hughes, To Kill A Mockingbird by Harper Lee. What was the last gift you gave someone? A mini indoor hockey set, complete with 2 goals, 6 sticks and pucks. The family immediately played for almost 3 hours. What was the last gift you received? Concert tickets. What is an extraordinary place you have recently traveled to? Tanzania.
Joanie Lum
What’s one thing most people don’t know about you? I’m from Ferguson, Missouri.
卌棇ꅾ
Reporter Fox 32 Chicago
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Beibei Song 㸢餍餍
Chief Creative Officer Essinova
I am the founder of Essinova. Based on the media platform for health and the innovation of environment protection, Essinova move the focus from technology development to culture and art. We are looking for the potential opportunities from the conversation between various fields. We will promote our leadership in the field and work on some projects based on our goals.
What was your first job, and how did it shape your life? My first job was an arbitrator for China Council for the Promotion of International Trade (CCPIT) and China International Economic and Trade Arbitration Commission (CIETAC). During that time, I got my Chinese lawyer license. I learned from this job: 1.There are various ways to solve a problem. 2. Self-teaching can work. People do not need a certain degree to work in the area. (I studied Business in college, not Law.) 3. The international approach and people I met in work pushed me to learn about Western thinking, and that was the beginning of my multicultural background. What keeps you awake at night? How to create opportunities in the trend of interdisciplinary, cross-sectoral, cross-industry environment. What books are currently on your bedside table? The Geography of Genius. Following Eric Weiner, a former NPR journalist, philosopher, and traveler, from ancient Athens to Silicon Valley, we are able to visit the cities that record human’s best creativity, including Hangzhou, Florence, Edinburgh, Calcutta and Vienna. This book lets the readers to explore what makes these places to be the most gifted places. Blue Mind. Oceanographer Wallace J. Nichols explains the remarkable effects of water on our health and well-being in a scientific way. Anything water-related activities, including living near the water, working on or under the water, even sports, make people become healthier and happier. When do you feel most free? Outdoor swimming, dancing with music, mountain climbing and walking around the streets.
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After a career of more than 30 years in the Chicago’s advertising business as creative director and consultant, I am now an independent documentary filmmaker. I have finished my debut documentary Spilled Water (峁ⴀ涸宐) in 2014 and am now working on Hayden & Her Family. It’s a film about a facially deformed girl from China and her adoptive American family with 7 biological children and four other adopted siblings all with special needs. I see this as an opportunity to give voice to the voiceless, especially for those in China; and explore how, when different lives and love intersect, acts of generosity and sacrifice transform the lives of everyone in the process.
What was your first job, and how did it shape your life? I started my advertising career as an art director at DDB Needham which was then Needham, Harper and Steer. It was a great job learning the power of persuasion through creative ideas, visual and copy. It also allowed me the opportunity to learn the filmmaking process through television commercial productions and led to other opportunities in other advertising agencies. What books are currently on your bedside table? I’m currently reading “Strangers Drowning” by Larissa MacFarquhar. It’s a fascinating book about how and why ambitious altruists try to “save the world.”
May Tchao
When do you feel most free? I feel most free when floating on water — the sense of weightlessness must be how birds or fish feel. What’s your view on money? To a certain extent, it’s great to have money, it allows you the freedom to do the things you love. But it’s not good to have so much that one gets complacent and out of touch with reality.
饭繠繠
What is an extraordinary place you have recently traveled to? The karst hills of Yangshuo are other-worldly and tranquilizing. It still preserves the last visage of rural China.
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1200 W RANDOLPH ST, CHICAGO, IL, 60607 (312).733.WINE | WWW.CITYWINERY.COM
的 的 蓏 ⸈ ㆥ 껷 㹻
㙹⚥ꃝꂊ⾊ 〳㺂紵 ➃涸
韝 ⼶ 㖞 㖑 귬⾍
ꂊゅ
猙➃崞⸓
Fang Block
䄄蔉
Editor Dow Jones
I am covering a new beat-luxury real estate news for Dow Jones-owned Mansion Global. I plan to take some courses in real estate management. I love to work out and aim to run a half marathon this year.
What was your first job, and how did it shape your life? I became a reporter for the People’s Daily in China in 1997. I have been working as a journalist ever since. What keeps you awake at night? Deadlines, deadlines, deadlines What books are currently on your bedside table? Complete Stories and Poems of Edgar Allan Poe; Charles and Emma: Darwin’s Leap of Faith; Always the Bridesmaid by Lindsey Kelk (Advance Reader’s Edition) When do you feel most free? Reading with my two beautiful daughters. What was the last present you gave someone? A bouquet for a friend. What’s your view on money? You can never have enough money. What is an extraordinary place you have recently traveled to? Divine Road in Hebei, China What’s one thing most people don’t know about you? I traveled to 48 states while at Columbia University Graduate School of Journalism.
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BEN CHEN 432 E. Grand Ave. 312.683.6288 ben@streetervilleproperties.com
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公 益 NON PROFIT
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Janny Leung President OCA
For the past several years I am fortunate to have had the opportunity in leading Asian American community groups such as OCA Greater Chicago and the Asian American Business Expo. It made me realize that we still have a lot of road to pave in advancing the social, political, and economic wellbeing of Asian Pacific Americans. I am planning to spend more time in planning and organizing activities to help advance our cause and level the playing field. I will be leading committees focusing on education and employment opportunities, and participate in help other groups working on the social and political aspects. Since 2016 is an election year, I will be spending more time in getting more Asian Americans get out and vote.
What keeps you awake at night? Injustice doled out by people bothers me a lot. We cannot control nature and other elements, but can’t we stamp out injustice? What books are currently on your bedside table? The Innovators, The Trader Joe’s Adventure: Turning a Unique Approach to Business into a Retail and Cultural Phenomenon, The Merchant of Power: Sam Insull, Chicago stories and various Agatha Christies. What was the last present you gave someone? A diamond bracelet.
What was the last present you received? A family picture album. What’s your view on money? It’s necessary as a trading tool. What is an extraordinary place you have recently traveled to? Sacramento, California. What’s one thing most people don’t know about you? I have an extremely creative mind.
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Jim Law
What was your first job, and how did it shape your life? During high school, I together with my siblings worked for my father in his store and import-export business in NYC’s Chinatown, which immersed us in the diversity of Chinese culture including an ever-growing range of regional dialects. I learned that my father’s store was also an informal place where many immigrant Chinese families sought my father’s free advice on immigration rules, housing and social services in lower Manhattan, My father had diplomatic experience from being a Vice Consul at the Chinese Consulate in Mexico, until it closed in 1949.
縄字
What books are currently on your bedside table? 1) Havana Modern by Michael Connors; 2) David Adjaye, Form Heft Material; 3) Unfathomable City – A New Orleans Atlas by Rebecca Solnit & Rebecca Snedeker; 4) 500 Self Portraits
President The Garfield Park Conservatory Alliance
What is an extraordinary place you have recently traveled to? Istanbul is a truly remarkable place marking both a historical and geographical crossroads of the world culture. During a recent overnight layover lasting less than 20 hours last year, my wife Katie and I enjoyed an “al fresco” feast of small Mid-eastern plates in a beautiful hidden courtyard garden, followed by an evening stroll to Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque. A speedy stroll to the spice market the next morning, found us eventually sitting for tea with a shopkeeper from whom we had purchased some beautifully decorated ceramics. What’s one thing most people don’t know about you? I am a big proponent of French culture having spent a significant part of my childhood living in Chatou just west of Paris with my mother and three siblings, and attending French public school for a school year. Growing up in NYC we continued embracing French culture, language and travel on a regular basis, including return trips to other parts of France, like Lyon, Bordeaux, Strasbourg, and Kolmar.
Since July 2016, I have been the President of the Garfield Park Conservatory Alliance, a position that works closely with the Chicago Park District to produce interpretive public programming around the Conservatory’s historic plant collection for the benefit of citywide and West Side residents, as well as out-oftown visitors.
Director of the Mayor’s Office of Special Events from 1998 until 2007. I am a licensed architect in Illinois since 1983, and member of the American Institute of Architects since 1984, during which time I have designed and completed significant cultural, retail, civic and residential structures throughout the Chicago region. I am in my third year of serving on the Board of Directors at the Cook County Forest Preserve Foundation, and also volunteer as a Chicago Greeter to show visitors around Chicago. I am an alumni interviewer of prospective applicants to the College of Architecture Art and Planning at Cornell University, and formerly, I served on the Boards of Directors for Francis Parker School and Peoples Music School.
My public service career began in 1990 when I was fortunate to be asked by Commissioner Lois Weisberg to join her leadership team at the Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs. I became Deputy Commissioner for Cultural Planning, followed by the role of Director of the Chicago Office of Tourism. In 1996 my office helped organize an international campaign for Mayor Richard M. Daley and his Chicago delegation that he took to France, and later to Germany. I became the Executive
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What was your first job, and how did it shape your life? I majored in Computer Engineering at college. My first job out of college was developing and implementing the technology of SBC control photocopying. It was a collaboration with a Wuxi Publisher. After I worked on several projects, I found my passion was not in Computer Science but news reporting and travel. I became a journalist for foreign business at Chinese Computer Report, and vice-president/president of Public Relation Department at Chinese Computer User Magazine. I realized that my interest is human communication and marketing, instead of technology based work. What keeps you awake at night? Not much now. I like to stay calm and make everything in order, eg: prepare for next day’s work. What books are currently on your bedside table? Think and Grow Rich by Napoleon Hill Bringer of The Light: How you can change your life and change the world by Neale Donald Walsch What is an extraordinary place you have recently traveled to? This January I went to Taiwan and volunteered for the company called “Maternal and Child Care Growth Association.” I went to visit the kids at Taiwan Hualien Maizuru National Primary Care Aboriginal, gave them gifts, and planted coffee trees with 29 children. The children so cute! My heart melted by their movements. They are not used to being hugged, but they are also so eager to be embraced and be taken care of. They are beautiful, kind and true... I can’t use words to describe my mood and feelings. I think of words in the Bible: “more blessed to give than to receive.”
Joanna Wang 桬⨴
President J.W Retirement Planning
I am a Financial Advisor focus on retirement planning. I am the president of my firm J.W Retirement Planning. I make a subject for myself. This helps me to balance my life at work, home, and society. My subject for 2016 is: increase connotation.
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I have been a patent litigation attorney for nearly 25 years. I enjoy my work because I work with very intelligent, motivated, and innovative people at a great law firm. It is challenging and fascinating to work with cutting-edge technologies, and my undergraduate degree in engineering allows me to discuss and advise on highly complex technical issues. In my spare time, I volunteer on various boards, particularly those that focus on communities of color. I am currently the board chair of Asian Americans Advancing Justice – Chicago, an organization dedicated to serving the Asian American community. I have many hobbies and interests, but the two that are most important to me are classical piano and portrait photography. I have been fortunate to photograph images for a variety of clients and organizations, including Flashes of Hope, which provides portraits sessions for pediatric cancer patients and their families.
What was your first job, and how did it shape your life? I was a projectionist in a library movie theater. It taught me to love movies and the details that make a film particularly good, to plan for things going wrong (like broken film and projector bulbs), and to politely tell loud people to be quiet.
Michael Chu
What keeps you awake at night? Worrying about the well-being of the people I love. What books are currently on your bedside table? Time Salvager, by Wesley Chu (an extraordinary, award-winning book. I took the author portrait on the cover flap!) Dear Mr. You, by Mary-Louise Parker
嘽㼣⨴
When do you feel most free? When I am running a marathon. What was the last present you gave someone? The biography of Elon Musk, by Ashlee Vance.
Capital Partner McDermott Will & Emery
What’s your view on money? It’s ok to spend it on people and things that are important to you. Life is short. What is an extraordinary place you have recently traveled to? Rome, Italy What’s one thing most people don’t know about you? Before I went to engineering school, I almost went to music school to become a classical pianist.
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Karlin Chan ꣥㹻륁
Exec Director Chinese Freemasons Chinese Action Network
Lifelong resident and activist/ advocate in NYC Chinatown who mainly aids victims of crime and predatory enforcement who have language difficulties navigate the criminal and legal system.
What was your first job, and how did it shape your life? Retired from Verizon shortly after the rebuilding NYC’s fiber optic system in wake of the horrific 911 terror attacks. What keeps you awake at night? Nothing much, I sleep well knowing well the next morning will bring fresh ideas to solve the many advocacy projects at hand. Stressing over a single issue will not solve it any quicker. What books are currently on your bedside table? James Clavell’s .Shogun, Noble House, Tai Pan When do you feel most free? As an avid cyclist, I do my best thinking on my morning rides usually solitary. What was the last present you received? The ones that meant the most were Thank you cards at Christmas from people I’ve helped What’s your view on money? All my advocacy/victim’s aid is pro-bono. I charge nothing and accept nothing from those I help.
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Philip Wong is an attorney concentrating in commercial real estate and international transactions. He has been recognized as a Super Lawyer by Super Lawyer Magazine. Philip was one of the organizers of the Asian American Bar Association of Chicago and the National Asian Pacific American Bar Association. Philip is legal counsel to the US-China Chamber of Commerce. He was the President of the Hong Kong Business Association of the Midwest. Philip has also served as President of the Chinese American Service League, Inc. and is a long-time board member of that organization.
Philip Wong
랕㕂䂽
Attorney Law Offices of Philip Wong
What was your first job, and how did it shape your life? My first job was with Chicago Title and Trust Company, where I was introduced to the world of commercial real estate. I worked with Jack Pritzker, whose family founded Hyatt Hotels. He gave me my first ride in a Rolls Royce.
What was the last gift you received? A friend gave me a frame with pictures of my family.
What books are currently on your bedside table? I am reading Outliers by Malcolm Gladwell about how ordinary people develop extraordinary skills. I also have a book of chess puzzles next to my bed, and I try to solve 10-20 puzzles each night.
What is an extraordinary place you have recently traveled to? I was in New York with my daughters. We love the excitement of the city.
What is your view on money? Family, friends, health and happiness are more important than financial gain.
What’s one thing most people don’t know about you? I was the Illinois Junior chess champion. I played Walter Browne, the 6-time US chess champion,in Las Vegas. I also translated several chess books from German into English.
When do you feel most free? When I am in Michigan with my family to relax and reconnect with everyone.
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Lily Chen
Lily is the founder of “Pacific Silver Lining: 繠⚥罈䎃⼕ Ⱞ⼸⠔” which is to promote learning of the best U.S. elder care models through training and education for Chinese. She is also on the faculty at Northern Illinois University college of nursing. She is passionate about serving advocating and serving older adults and Chinese American community. Her greatest blessing is her family. Having just spent the Christmas with the addition of a new son-in- law, and going through her five children’s untouched “school closet” first time in years, she is keenly aware how time really flies. She wants to continue to build lasting memories for her family, serve and enrich lives of those around her professionally, personally, socially, and spiritually in the new year.
꣥⨴
CEO U.S.-China Geriatric and Long Term Care Association
What was your first job, and how did it shape your life? Working as a nurse at Guangzhou First People’s Municipal Hospital starting at the age of 18. It was sometimes frightening being responsible for 30 plus sick people while sleep deprived being on a rotation of five shifts over six days covering 24 hours. Practicing nursing taught me hard work, remain “cool” with quick decision making during emergencies, problem solving, taking risk with the best informed decision, and compassion. Those skills and qualities carry me throughout my very busy personal and professional life. What keeps you awake at night? Due dates! What books are currently on your bedside table? New York Times best seller: Being Mortal: Medicine and What Matters in the End by Dr. Atul Gawande. It is transformational in how we should conceptualize and support care for people with terminal illness: we all should have open discussion on how to live the way patients would like until the end, and support those decisions. What is an extraordinary place you have recently traveled to? Yosemite National Park: where you could smell, play, hike, swim and really be a part of it. What’s one thing most people don’t know about you? I sewed four matching Christmas/concert performances dresses for my three older girls and one friend, and all the window treatments in my house!
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Lisa Wong 랕⚽蛎 Risk Officer BMO Financial Group
What was your first job, and how did it shape your life? My first job was working at my parent’s fast food restaurant. It motivated me to study hard so I don’t have to work in restaurants and the fast pace environment was training for working on the trading floor. What books are currently on your bedside table? Lean In by Sheryl Sandberg When do you feel most free? When I accomplish a goal
Lisa An Wong serves as a Risk officer at Bank of Montreal where she sets the strategic risk management vision and is charged with delivering that strategy to the company. Previously, Lisa served as an Associate Director at UBS Global Asset Management, Senior Analyst at HSBC and Freddie Mac and Analyst at the Bank of New York Mellon. She is on the Board of the Women in Supported Environment group at Bank of Montreal and is the Chief Financial Officer of the Chicago Financial Women Alliance. She was on the Board of the Association of Chinese American Scientists and Engineers, Board of the Organization of Chinese Americans of Chicago, Treasurer of The Chinese Financial Association and is part of the Asian American Executive Network. Lisa has a Bachelor’s degree in accounting from George Washington University and a Master’s of Business Administration in Finance from American University.
What was the last present you gave someone? Swarovski glass sculpture to my mother What was the last present you received? Pearl Necklace What is an extraordinary place you have recently traveled to? Hawaii What’s one thing most people don’t know about you? I was an introvert in high school
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Sharon Hwang 랕請魧
Shareholder McAndrews, Held & Malloy, ltd.
My law practice consists primarily of patent litigation, including trials, appeals, and proceedings before the United States Patent Trial & Appeal Board, pertaining to medical devices and electronics. I am currently preparing for my first case before the United States Supreme Court, which will be argued on February 23, 2016. In addition to practicing law, I am the President of the Asian American Bar Association Law Foundation, a notfor-profit organization dedicated to supporting the public interest and community services relating to the Asian Pacific American community in the Chicagoland area.
What was your first job, and how did it shape your life? My first job was as a “steak walker” at Ponderosa, a budget-friendly steakhouse. That job showed me that hard work comes in many forms, and that many customers lack respect and common courtesy. Based on that experience, I am extra kind to restaurant workers and I always leave large tips!
What was the last present you received? My oldest daughter, Stephanie (age 17), is a wonderful artist, and she made me a beautiful replica of Van Gogh’s Olive Trees – it is framed and displayed proudly in my office. What is an extraordinary place you have recently traveled to? This past summer, my entire extended family traveled to Tanzania for a two-week safari – it was beautiful, majestic, and breath-taking! My favorite memory is floating high over the Serengeti in a hot air balloon, gazing at the giraffes, hippos, elephants, zebras, and gazelles enjoying their natural habitats below.
What was the last present you gave someone? I gave my 75-year old mother an “Awesome Box,” a box containing cards and pictures with notes written to her by her friends and family. What keeps you awake at night? I am very task-oriented and I try to set realistic goals for myself to reach every day. I literally cannot sleep at night unless and until each of those goals is reached.
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Tina Chu ⴲ❫
President and Designer O2Concepts
My company’s business mainly focuses on helping local and overseas medium size business and startups make a full range of design, planning, and consultancy services. Our service includes business cards, branding, web design, marketing, and office arrangement. Besides business, I am also an instructor in college and I work part-time for non-profit organization as a director.
What was your first job, and how did it shape your life? In college I worked as a saleswoman, selling cell phones. I learned from the job that communications with clients is more important than just selling products to them. What keeps you awake at night? I am a perfectionist. I have high demands on all the details of each project, so I spend a lot of time filtering and revising every step of project. What books are currently on your bedside table? Grammar Guide. It helps me to fall asleep. When do you feel most free? Getting close to the nature. I like to go to the mountains and forests to breath fresh air. What was the last gift you gave someone? I gave my boyfriend’s niece a zodiac pendant. What is your view on money? Spend money wisely. We can use money to help others who need help. We can also invest money on learning and studying.
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Courtney Fong President Chinese American Bar Association General Counsel and Chief Compliance Officer Castle Creek Arbitrage LLC Adjunct Professor of Law IIT Chicago-Kent College of Law
What books are currently on your bedside table? The Weight of Glory by C.S. Lewis When do you feel most free? When my family is joyful and well taken care of. What was the last present you gave someone? I recently gave someone who is expecting a baby a gift card for coffee. As a father of four children I know that they will need it! What’s your view on money? Money is a tool that is entrusted to us. Money reaches its maximize potential when it is given away for good purposes.
Everyday, I am working on making other people better. We all benefit when others are excelling at whatever they do and I truly want others to maximize and fulfill their potential. I also follow this timeless scripture – act justly, love mercy, walk humbly.
What is an extraordinary place you have recently traveled to? I loved visiting Siberia to adopt our youngest daughter. What’s one thing most people don’t know about you? I was previously a certified tennis professional.
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A seasoned producer and master of ceremony for larger performance events in Chicagoland, Ms. Zheng has produced and hosted many culture activities and community events, including 2015 Chicago Yellow River Cantata Concert, Chinese New Year Gala, etc that were reported on Chinese Central Television (CCTV). She is active in promoting the appreciation of Chinese arts and culture, the Chinese language education, and cultural exchange among the American and Chinese communities. Jan currently is the President of Chicago Dongfang Chinese Performing Arts Association and Board of Director of Chinese American Association of Greater Chicago.
What was your first job, and how did it shape your life? I first worked as an assistant marketing manager with a large hi-tech corporation. I learned the art of identifying new enterprise opportunities and how to turn new ideas into a strategy and concrete direction for a team to pursue. How to effectively integrate key resources, i.e. people, capital, and productive assets and produce new, profitable, and worthwhile results. What books are currently on your bedside table? The People in the Trees, a novel by Hanya Yanagihara The Price of Civilization - Reawakening American Virtue and Prosperity, non-fiction by Jeffrey D. Sachs My Century, an autobiography by Gunter Grass Magazines: Time and the New Yorker
Jan Zheng
When do you feel most free? Usually it is late at night when most others are in bed. I enjoy the peace and quite, especially when there is no pressing matters hanging over me. In solitude, I can just let my mind wander, or simply soak in music or books.
龨䖄
What was the least present you gave someone? A dozen roses to my mom for her birthday.
Vice President Chinese American Association of Great Chicago
What is an extraordinary place you have recently traveled to? Kauai of the Hawaii Islands. It’s not the first time I’ve been there, nor will it be the last. It’s not the most exotic place I know, but it is pristine, colorful, relaxing, unassuming and accessible.
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未来 领袖 EMERGING LEADERS
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Yuhan Liu 猇ゎ CEO HAN Media Inc.
Yuhan Liu is among the young leading Chinese media professionals residing in New York. She is most known for her major contribution to the New York Times’ “unvarnished” series: the Price of Nice Nails– a 13-month investigation into the nail salon industry and exposed abusive practices in it. Besides drawing tremendous attention from hundreds of media around the globe, the reporting led to New York Governor Cuomo’s signing Bill of Rights into law to protect immigrant workers. Previously, Yuhan worked for New York Observer and China Daily ⚥㕂傈䫣 as a reporter, Executive Editor and video producer; now she runs communications firm HAN Media and also serves as Editor-inChief for online magazine NYChina Style. She used to contribute content to renowned media outlets including The Real Deal, ESPN, China Press and Juwai.com (one of China’s most popular real estate trade media).
What was your first job, and how did it shape your life? My first job was multimedia journalist at China Daily ⚥ 㕂傈䫣 from 2011-2013. The two years of professional training has paved solid ground for me to tap all my journalistic potentials and brought me with crafted and well-rounded skills that later led me to more great opportunities in my career.
What’s your view on money? It’s very important as it makes you financially independent; and if one day you have more than you need, you can give back to society. I always wanted to sponsor journalism scholarship in the near future as I see how traditional media is suffering and many young students have given up on journalism– their true passion– but instead chosen something more practical. Society needs them, I started to understand this even more after the nail salon investigative reporting I did for the New York Times.
What books are currently on your bedside table? The Ten-Day MBA. I thought about getting an MBA at NYU, but time is too much a luxury, so I try to grasp some knowledge on management in my spare time while running my communications firm.
What’s one thing most people don’t know about you? I love dancing Zumba and have been dancing it for 6 years.
When do you feel most free? I haven’t felt free enough yet.
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I am dedicated to growing JingLi US globally, a pioneer US China elite network and service to connect top 1% of both countries in business meetings, investment and marketing/PR. We are expanding our base from Manhattan New York to other states in the US, Beijing and Shanghai in 2016. With China’s boom of overseas travel and business, we help many top business executives, entrepreneurs, brands and business tourism expand to the US and China. We started our West coast business with a successful business meeting at Amazon so now we connected not only top finance, technology but also Internet and E commerce businesses. I also want to be better balanced in my life, from a happily single CEO to a happy partner one day as well as time with my friends and families. Eventually, I want to grow JingLi US to the #1 network for the smartest and most influential in US and China.
Li Jing
What was your first job, and how did it shape your life? I got my first paid job at age 9 to perform calligraphy after I became top in my art class. I was so happy! I invested the 10 RMB or $1.50 for a better stamp and got more jobs after. So you can start any age and make money even from something you just learned. What books are currently on your bedside table? The Woman I wanted to Be by Diane von Furstenberg, and Thrive by Arianna Huffington
虅蛁
When do you feel most free? Flying a small plane or helicopter over the ocean even I am afraid of heights! You are free when you have no fear.
Founder & CEO JingLi US
What was the last present you received? An insightful and honest conversation with friends and my support system that inspired me to be better. The older I become, the more I feel how valuable is emotional gifts than materials. Time, heart and soul are the most precious gift I value. What is an extraordinary place you have recently traveled to? Bermuda.
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Gabriel is a financial services professional at Intercontinental Exchange, where he manages the development of its CDS Risk Management system. Having completed graduate programs in California and Illinois, Gabriel serves as Chairman of Project: VISION, a youth-based non-profit educational center serving the Chinatown and Bridgeport communities.
What was your first job, and how did it shape your life? My first job was at Baskin Robbins down the street from my grandmother’s house. I earned $5.25 an hour at the age of 16 and it taught me education is the only means to earning a living wage. I also never eat ice cream anymore. What keeps you awake at night? How can we at Project: VISION continue to maintain our record of sending 100% of our students to college without a single dollar of taxpayer assistance from the City of Chicago, State of Illinois or the federal government of the United States? What books are currently on your bedside table? The Wars of the Roses: The Fall of the Plantagenets and the Rise of the Tudors. I view it as the U.K.’s version of Romance of the Three Kingdoms. When do you feel most free? Running five miles down Lake Shore Drive, preferably in the winter. What was the last present you gave someone? A dinner at Alinea to my girlfriend for completing her oncology/hematology fellowship at Georgetown University.
Gabriel Wong
What’s your view on money? Freedom. What is an extraordinary place you have recently traveled to? Batu Caves in Malaysia.
랓떻纆
Chairman, Board of Directors Project: VISION 86
I want to consider myself a digital artist. My medium is usually on the computer. I like to focus on using new technology and incorporating it in art. My latest music video is virtual reality.
What was your first job, and how did it shape your life? My First job was working at a Japanese restaurant called Tampopo in St.Paul. It was my freshmen year of college. It shaped my life because I knew I did not want to work in a restaurant. What keeps you awake at night? Knowing that there is still more work that I need to finish. There is never enough that you can do in a day. You sometimes just have to give in and go to sleep. What books are currently on your bedside table? On my beside table I have 1Q84 by Haruki Murakami and In the Blink of an Eye by Walter Murch. I don’t like to read much for leisure so they will probably be there for a while. When do you feel most free? Of course when I’m making music in my studio. What was the last present you gave someone? Last present I gave someone was a copy of my new project “Imperial Grade Project + “ that is releasing on Feb 16. I gave out some copies out to close friends.
Edward Yang
What was the last present you received? Last present I received was a pour over coffee maker for Christmas.
勿㶩
What’s your view on money? I’m a musician so that pretty much sums it up. What is an extraordinary place you have recently traveled to? I traveled to New Orleans last spring and it was really cool. The culture was very rich. My conclusion of New Orleans would be a Miami mixed with Las Vegas.
Musician/Artist Bengfang Media 87
Daniel Xia ã¢&#x2122;å&#x192;&#x2022;륫 Cofounder US-Asia Group
we are a real estate company. We do residential and commercial real estate brokerage and development. Our goal is to bridge U.S. and China, help clients accomplish their American dream.
What was your first job, and how did it shape your life? .Z î&#x2DC;¨STU KPC XBT B 5SFBTVSZ USBEFS * BN VTFE UP XPSLJOH BT B OJHIU PXM EVF UP UIJT KPC * POMZ UBML UP NZ DPNQVUFS FWFSZEBZ * BN JTPMBUFE XJUI UIF SFBM XPSME * SFBMJ[FE JU XBT OPU B SJHIU KPC GPS NF What keeps you awake at night? My dream, and my stress. When do you feel most free? Extreme sports keeps me away from work, for a while. What was the last gift you received? A Lego model of Ferrari. What is your view on money? Satisfaction and happiness is not determined by money. What is an extraordinary place you have recently traveled to? I love skiing. Vail in Colorado is my favorite.
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Anne Fan 薴絶㫺
Founder LUX.PLACE Associate Board Co-Chair Chinese American Service League Broker Associate Jameson Sotheby’s International Realty
What was your first job, and how did it shape your life? Being a buyer for a luxury retailer involved so much more than simply “buying.” I felt it was important to first learn the ins and outs of the industry as a whole, and then dig deeper to understand the nuances of the company. As my career has evolved and grown to touch a full spectrum of industries, one element that continues to hold true is my observations through a macro lens, and looking at the bigger picture when making decisions. This lends itself to sharpened instincts and the recognition of opportunities that others may miss. What books are currently on your bedside table? Zero to One by Peter Thiel and The Power of Habit by Charles Duhigg What was the last present you gave someone? Polaroid Zip instant photo printer What was the last present you received? Poloroid instant photo printer. I find that sometimes it’s more sentimental to have tangible photos. What is an extraordinary place you have recently traveled to? I truly loved visiting the English countryside. It is very peaceful where the sheep still roam freely. It is extremely picturesque and the views of lakes and ponds are as if straight out of a storybook.
I plan to further connect my network with current potentials in the Chicago real estate market. I am dedicated to locating attractive investment opportunities that will draw interests from investors outof-state and overseas to Chicago and the US. I am also passionate about helping my immediate community here in Chicago through my service and volunteer efforts at the Chinese American Service League.
What’s one thing most people don’t know about you? I don’t require a lot of sleep. All I need are fresh fruits and veggies, an antioxidant smoothie and healthy snacks to get through the day.
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Terry Li 勚㣔用 Co-Founder, COO mntors. inc
Terry is the founder of Mntors, which is a web based startup that serves as a platform to facilitate knowledge sharing. Terry started this business because of the frustration and information asymmetry he experienced when he was looking for a job. To date the experts on our website answered questions from thousands of users. Terry is originally from Shanghai, China and went to Northwestern University.
What was your first job, and how did it shape your life? My first job was financial consulting analyst. This job taught me to take care of details, and try to be dedicated. I also got connected to the finance and investment business in North America, which included my partners. That’s how we founded Mntors.com. What keeps you awake at night? Thoughts and ideas about my business and personal life. What books are currently on your bedside table? VR Insider . A book about Virtual Reality facilities. When do you feel most free? Watching a good comedy movie. What was the last gift you gave someone? I gave my mom a pair of Tiffany earrings as her 50th birthday present. What was the last gift you received? Lego Starwars. What is your view on money? Capital can help a company to grow. But the more important element is the people who run the company. What is an extraordinary place you have recently traveled to? Carmel, California
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Paul Zhang 䓎缽뚱
Chief Technology Officer Avant inc.
What was your first job, and how did it shape your life? First job was at a library. It taught me patience and effort can accomplish a lot of things. Not a lot of automation in the library, but it was small scaled. Similarly, in business, a small idea can be done manually first to prove out the concept before you scale. What keeps you awake at night? I like to think about the future of humanity and where it would go in the next 50-100 years as technology continues to evolve and become everpresent in our lives. What books are currently on your bedside table? The Expanse Series by James S.A. Corey When do you feel most free? When I am traveling with friends and loved ones. I am the Chief Technology Officer at Avant. Avant is an online lender focused on lowering the cost and barriers of borrowing to the middle class consumer around the globe by leveraging the latest technology and analytics. We are a 3.5 year old company and have issued more than 3 billion dollars in loans so far.
What’s your view on money? Money should serve a purpose. It can be a simple purpose such as helping you feel more free or accomplishing a task that you have set out to do. It can also be the end goal for a great endeavor. But it’s the application of money that is important, not money by itself.
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Fei Wang 桬ê©
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What was your first job, and how did it shape your life? It was a sales job at a retail fashion store when I was 14. It taught me two things, an appreciation for fashion and hard work at an early age. What keeps you awake at night? Losing money for my clients What books are currently on your bedside table? Into Thin Air When do you feel most free? When Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m traveling What was the last present you gave someone? A custom suit for my associate Whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s your view on money? It can provide freedom and stability, but it is not a metric of happiness. What is an extraordinary place you have recently traveled to? Istanbul and Monaco Whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s one thing most people donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t know about you? Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m a very transparent person, so I really do not have anything to surprise people.
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What was your first job, and how did it shape your life? During my senior year in high school, through my teacher’s recommendation, I worked for the best-selling city magazine in Shanghai, Time Out, as an editor and journalist. From famous soccer player to DJ, I met people from different fields. I got the sense of various opportunities and possibilities in life. What books are currently on your bedside table? Cash Flow for Freelancers CZ %JBOB )V Design is a Job by Mike Monteiro What was the last gift you received? The love and support from my family. This is where I got the courage to chase my dream. What is an extraordinary place you have recently traveled to? Last winter, my whole family went to northern Finland, a place called Lapland, to see the aurora. It is a worth-visiting place in one’s life. The view is a stunning beauty, worths traveling in a life time. What’s one thing most people don’t know about you? I am interested in improvisation. Outside of work, I am also a student at Second City, Chicago improvisational comedy club. Stephen Colbert , Tina Fey, and Steve Carell were all members here.
Victor Kung 륬㸺䏭
To apply the knowledge I learned into my practice, I founded my own Internet company Tandem Designs. My goal is to help kickstarters and professionals build the most efficient and characteristic websites.
Co-Founder Tandem Design, llc
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Khai Yang 䓎䒓鸑 Technology Strategist Allstate Insurance
What was your first job, and how did it shape your life? My first job was a radio sports reporter in high school. As a cheerleader, I went to every game. I would give a 5 minute report on the football or basketball game scores and share game highlights. I got paid $20 per game. I learned how to pay attention and tell stories. What keeps you awake at night? Binge watching Netflix. Mozart in the Jungle was my latest binge. What books are currently on your bedside table? How to Create Products Customers Love by Marty Kagan When do you feel most free? Doing arts and craft with my kids. I think I enjoy it more than they do sometimes. What was the last gift you received? Red envelope for Chinese New Years. My parents still give me red envelopes even though I am married and with kids. What is your view on money? Money gives you choices. It’s still up to you to make the right choices to use it to do good.
As a technologist at Allstate Insurance, Khai is responsible for the customer data strategy program execution to drive data insights that enable an outstanding personalized customer experience.
What is an extraordinary place you have recently traveled to? Honolulu, Hawaii. We took a party bus around the island with my family (18 of us) to celebrate my birthday last year. You can’t beat the beautiful blue watered beaches and tasty Asian inspired food and awesome company.
I have a strong passion for mentoring, giving back to the Asian American community, and advocating for more women in technology. My purpose is to help others think differently so they can connect the dots and collaborate to create positive change.
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An-An Ku 곥㸝㸝
Broker Associate Urban Living Properties / Gold Coast Condos.
What was your first job, and how did it shape your life? In elementary school, I used to draw Simpson cartoons and sell them to other children as well as folks at garage sales in the neighborhood. It took me approximately five minutes per picture and I learned that it was significantly more fun and profitable than selling lemonade. I think that’s when I first realized I liked to “hustle” and had an entrepreneurial side. What books are currently on your bedside table? One Family, Two Worlds – This is a book written by my great grandfather and is the history / story of our family. I’ve realized how important it is to learn about where I come from and address the questions I do have while the people that can answer them are still present. How Asia Works – Named by Bill Gates as one of his top 5 books of the year. Alchemist – Easy quick read. What is your view on money? Two very wise men capture my views on $ perfectly. - “Money often costs too much.” – Ralph Waldo Emerson - “Money never made a man happy yet, nor will it.” The more a man has, the more he wants. “Instead of filling a vacuum, it makes one.” – Benjamin Franklin Although I appreciate money and the experiences it affords, the things that truly matter are family, friends, time, health, etc.
An-An Ku (곥㸝㸝) is a broker associate with Urban Living Properties / Gold Coast Condos. She brings a diverse background and client service mentality making her a great asset for buyers, sellers, and renters in the Chicago area. Prior to real estate, An-An’s time at Accenture and co-founding a Human Capital Consulting firm has provided experience with Fortune 500 firms and C-Suite partners that have helped fine-tune her ability to listen, understand and deliver the needs of clients in various industries. Other projects include investing in real estate internationally and collaborating with developers and players in the tourism / hospitality space. In the future, An-An would love to work on projects in both Haiti and China.
What is an extraordinary place you have recently traveled to? My most recent trip was to Haiti. Friends and family are usually shocked when they find out I love spending my free time in a third world country. “Haiti is poor, dangerous, corrupt, and you should avoid it” people love to preach. This country may not be everyone’s cup of tea but I encourage you to experience it first hand prior to passing judgment. Haiti is poor but generous and unpolished but beautiful. There are mountains, beaches, waterfalls, fortresses, art and culture. Many people don’t realize that Haitians are proud to be the first independent nation of former slaves. For those willing to look, it’s a country of countless opportunities and a rich history. Haiti is one of the places in this world that I feel most alive and I will always go back.
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Peter Le â&#x203A;&#x2122;ĺŚ&#x2021;ă &#x161; CEO Mntors, Inc.
Previously in finance (investment banking/ hedge fund), Peter is now active in the startup scene. He started a career advising marketplace called Mntors, which has over time morphed into a recruiting platforms for hiring managers to identify talents in finance, consulting and tech startups. Peter also does angel/seed investing.
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Anny Chou ワ梷㥵
Nonprofit Executive Search & MBA Candidate 2016 Koya leadership Partners & University of Chicago Booth School of Business
I recently moved back to Chicago, a city I’ve called home for the last 5 years, after graduating from Harvard with my master’s in education and technology. I landed my dream job in executive search at Koya where we work exclusively with nonprofit clients. For example, our firm recently placed the President & Director of the Art Institute of Chicago. In 2016, I look forward to graduating from the University of Chicago Booth School of Business with my MBA. Professionally, I’m excited to expand the diversity of nonprofit talent in Chicago by recruiting more Asian American into top leadership roles. I also hope to engage Asian Americans to become civically engaged.
What books are currently on your bedside table? Mostly business books. I also like to read fun books by comedian Mindy Kaling.
What is your view on money? Money gives you choices. It’s still up to you to make the right choices to use it to do good.
When do you feel most free? I feel most free when I’m paddle-boarding in in Newport Beach California and Bali or on an ATV exploring an exotic city like Santorini.
What is an extraordinary place you have recently traveled to? I recently spent two weeks in Italy and Greece. I loved driving in the countryside of Italy and visiting black, white and red sand beaches in Santorini.
What was the last gift you recieved? My brother and I have not always been close due to geographic distance. For the last few years, he has been practicing law in Singapore. He is currently at Columbia University getting his master of law. He and I have become much closer as a result. This is the best present I’ve received recently.
What’s one thing most people don’t know about you? I went to high school in three different countries, studied abroad twice in college and graduated early from college so I can travel. Traveling and being on the go is part of my DNA.
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What was your first job, and how did it shape your life? My first job was working in the family business. My parents owned a Chinese restaurant, and I started working there in high school. It taught me the importance of teamwork, patience and multi-tasking. I also learned to smile even in the most challenging of situations. What keeps you awake at night? I often ask myself, “Have I lived a purposeful life thus far? Have I loved those around me enough? Will I be able to leave this world better than it is today?” I strive to do these things every day. What books are currently on your bedside table? I have five books on my bedside table that all were very meaningful reads. I like to go back to each to review my favorite passages and be inspired. : The Outliers by Malcolm Gladwell Lean In by Sheryl Sandberg The Seven Habits of Highly Effective People by Stephen Covey The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho A Lifetime of Secrets by Frank Warren When do you feel most free? I stay very connected to my colleagues, clients, and personal life through technology. However, I always try to take a remote vacation each year to unplug and recharge. What is an extraordinary place you have recently traveled to? During my recent trip to Japan, I visited Mount Rokko in Hyogo Prefecture located in Kobe, Japan. The view at the very top of the mountain was breathtaking. You could see all of Kobe and Osaka in one panoramic view. The best time to go is during sunset as the sky melts into the landscape.
Santi Wong
What’s one thing most people don’t know about you? I played the French Horn for 10 years.
桬峸
Banker J.P. Morgan Private Bank
Santi Wong is currently a Private Banker for J.P.Morgan. She looks forward to getting to know others and finding ways to collaborate.
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Yang Gao 넞
Founder & CEO The Regulus Black Card LLC
Yang Gao is the founder and CEO of The Regulus Black Card LLC, a private membership community that revolves around a Chinese culture-based networking system to provide an exclusive lifestyle. He majored in accounting at Baruch College and took strategic management classes at Harvard.
What was your first job, and how did it shape your life? I think my first job was studying hard in high school to make my parents happy. They made a lot of effort to send me to school, which means that they are my bosses. My job is to try my best to study. What books are currently on your bedside table? How to Make Friends and Influence People Think and Grow Rich
What was the last present you received? A Montblanc Cardholder What’s your view on money? There is a saying, “We can’t live without money, but money can’t create anything, either.” What is an extraordinary place you have recently traveled to? Miami
When do you feel most free? When I am living alone without cell phone in a villagelike city.
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What’s one thing most people don’t know about you? I am not always as fit as people thought that I would be
In 2016, I plan to continue to provide families across the US the opportunity to build and protect their wealth. I will also strive to be a better husband, a better father, and keep on improving myself by reading at least twenty books.
What was your first job, and how did it shape your life? My first job was a part time skycap assistant at the Indianapolis International Airport while in college. At this job, I have met tons of people from all walks of life. It had taught me to deal and cope with different personalities. What keeps you awake at night? Usually the things I didn’t get to finish before the day is over. I’m either up all night finishing them or in bed thinking about them. Other than that, I like to catch up on all my “Chicago Med/Fire/PD” episodes before I go to sleep. What books are currently on your bedside table? I Love Annuities…and you should too by Jim Fox. And also a Chinese novel called The Ordinary World by author Lu Yao.
Xiao Chen
When do you feel most free? When I’m on the road driving. What was the last present you received? A scarf from my wife, already wore it a couple of times to my performances.
꣥悑
What’s your view on money? Money is power, and it amplifies the heart of its owner. If a good person has money, he/ she will put it to good use, to the benefit of the society. If the opposite is true, then great evil can be created with money as well.
Singer, Entrepreneur Trailblazers Leadership Development 100
What was your first job, and how did it shape your life? At about age 14 or 15, I worked at an Asian food distributor’s warehouse and was responsible for helping create an photo catalogue Online. In theory it wasn’t terribly difficult but to take the time to photograph and then Photoshop thousands of items was extremely tedious so it taught me patience and organization.
Jessica graduated from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign with an undergraduate degree in Accounting and a Master’s degree in Tax. She has six years of experience working in the hedge fund and private equity fund space in accounting and tax. Today, Jessica is at Grosvenor Holdings LLC and works continues to work on accounting, treasury and tax.
When do you feel most free? I am definitely the most free when I am working out in the gym. It’s the one place where you can really push yourself physically and mentally and I don’t fear failure. What was the last present you received? For Christmas, I received an Apple Watch. It’s not something I can live without, but it is a pretty fun and functional watch. It’s amazing how they can put all that technology into something so small! What is your view on money? You should never pay a single dollar in credit card interest or late fees. If you can’t pay for it in full, you can’t afford it. What’s one thing most people don’t know about you? People view me as bold and daring but it’s only because that’s what I want them to think.
Jessica Lee 勚䊫楧
Associate Grosvenor Holdings, llc.
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Weil Wu
゠㪭꤯
Partner Creative Studio Architectual Design
What was your first job, and how did it shape your life? My first job was a landscape designer. I was hired to build the model of one of the largest prized park in Chicago. The owner is intelligent, cunning, and is my role-model friend. His intensity and dedication to landscape design and business has opened my eyes and made me further appreciate the art of design and entrepreneurship. What keeps you awake at night? I may wake up for some responsibility I may have missed during the day, or just a burst of design idea that can improve one of my projects! What books are currently on your bedside table? Eighty years of Energy - Hsiao Chin’s Retrospect & Prospect. I was recently introduced to this artist by a dear friend of mine. After meeting him and seeing his exhibition at the art museum in Taiwan, I have gained a new perspective of art. However, books of Mie’s & Ando are never far away. When do you feel most free? Watching and playing basketball! What was the last present you gave someone? A bunny, that gave birth to two more bunnies. What was the last present you received? I finally got the dream convertible that I have longed for years. What’s one thing most people don’t know about you? That I truly work hard but play harder when I can!
At an early age, I was fascinated with the word “Architect”. Not knowing what it truly meant, this strong interest have guided and transformed me. I am extremely fortunate to immerse architecture to my life and continue to learn and practice architecture and construction as an entrepreneur for more than 2 decades. I am currently involved in numerous residential & light commercial projects, which includes custom home & condo design, salon & restaurant built outs, and art center renovation. What I enjoy the most is to guide new home owners & entrepreneurs through the complex world of design & construction and bring success to our projects together.
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What was your first job, and how did it shape your life? My first job was a translator at a risk of venture capital company. This work gave me a new exposure to the concept of financial and investment. My boss also contributed to my final decision to the United States for studying. What keeps you awake at night? Recent several months- my two-month old daughter who needs to be fed a lot! What books are currently on your bedside table? Thirty Million Words â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Building a Childâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Brain
Jia Peng
When do you feel most free? Skiing. What was the last present you received? A ticket to â&#x20AC;&#x153;The Mothâ&#x20AC;&#x153;. What is an extraordinary place you have recently traveled to? Taos, New Mexico
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Founding Partner Triumph Advisors, LLC
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I switch among several roles everyday. I am a mother, wife, daughter, investor and business manager. I want to play a better role in family. At the same time, I want to contribute more on Chinese business, supporting the development of Chinese business in the United States.
What was your first job, and how did it shape your life? My first job was worked as a Research Assistant in college. I studied Biology in college and I am so grateful that I met Professor Cangellaris in my first elective Electronic Engineering class when I first came to the U.S. He offered me, a Chinese girl who did not speak English fluently, a job as a Research Assistant. Because of this experience, I insist that inner drive and attitude is more important than experience for a candidate. What keeps you awake at night? How to be a better mom. When do you feel most free? When I went on camping with my family at a National Park. When the sun set, all the stars show in the sky, it is a really pretty view.
Chaoran Jin
What was the last present you received? A handcrafted painting my five-year-old daughter made. What is an extraordinary place you have recently traveled to? I recently talked investment cooperation with several Chinese Family Enterprises in the United States, I am moved by the attitude of never-ending hard work that every Chinese (from the founder of the enterprise to the production line workers) shows.
ꏰéŚ&#x201E;ć?Ź Principal Keystone Capital, Inc
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Lisa Wang
桬蛁蛎
Co-Founder SheWorx
SheWorx is a collective of ambitious female entrepreneurs and changemakers redefining the next wave of leadership. We are building a stronger startup ecosystem for female entrepreneurs by creating spaces for valuable mentorships, relationships, mindsets, and skill sets to develop through curated events. SheWorx hosts dynamic weekly round table discussions led by our mentors who are accomplished founders, entrepreneurs, investors, centered around challenging topics and actionable strategies for building and scaling successful companies. SheWorx is providing access to the knowledge, network, and capabilities to empower more women to launch new ideas, obtain funding, and grow sustainable, successful companies.
What was your first job, and how did it shape your life? My first career was as an elite gymnast as part of the US national team. I competed for 10 years, was on the national team for 7, and crowned US National Champion for 4. I am appreciative of the grueling work that goes into chasing a dream, and view starting a company in the same light as I view training for a competitive sport: endless hours of effort in exchange for brief, but incomparable moments of glory.
What was the last gift you gave someone? A smiley emoji pillow What was the last gift you received? I received a beautiful peacock card from my business partner for completion of an executive coaching program. What is an extraordinary place you have recently traveled to? Burning Man, Black Rock City, Nevada
What books are currently on your bedside table? The Power of Full Engagement.
What’s one thing most people don’t know about you? Bourbon is my go-to drink
When do you feel most free? I feel most free when I am in the midst of extremely intense exercise, or when I am away from all electronics.
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Conlyn Chan
I recently made my luxury handbag brand present in the Ritz-Carlton in Hong Kong and China’s first Edition Hotel, helped a European brand buy their first five-star hotel, helped Shanghai Bund build a relationship with Madison Avenue in New York. Everyday, I live in a meaningful way. I believe what I do to can make this world a better place. We provide beautiful hand bag, make hotel investments, help companies grow, and build friendships and business communication between China and the United States.
꣥䐀梤
Legal Chair and Board Member Asian Association of Alternative Investment Professionals (AAAIP) Founder Lawless Accessories VP, Commercial Division TEN-X
What keeps you awake at night? I usually sleep tight, but sometimes I think of asking friends for reference to get more business opportunities. That would keep me up for a while. What books are currently on your bedside table? The most magic 50 ways of thinking in the world by Long Qi, Deepak Chopra’s Path to Love, Fresh Off The Boat by Eddie Huang. What was the last gift you gave someone? My mom loves to collect objects with any sunflower element. I gave her a package of all the things I collected around the world which contains sunflower element: dress from France, a ceramic piece from Belize, a pen from Japan, and a pair of handcrafted earrings from Hampshire village. What was the last gift you received? Apple watch What is your view on money? Good people spend money in a good way. What is an extraordinary place you have recently traveled to? #FMJ[F
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I am the executive vice president of creative for WGSN. We provide deep insight and analysis of consumer, fashion and design trends to inspire our 7,000 clients companies globally to help them make better design and development decisions. Most recently I have been working on new branding ideas with our marketing team to give WGSN a fresh look and feel to better represent our business. I am also exploring new ideas for the user interface and user experience for each of our websites along with the internal product team.
Francis Wong 랕⠚⠡
What was your first job, and how did it shape your life? I worked as an IT Manager for a project of the Hong Kong’s Education Bureau integrating technology into the existing educational system. I worked with many teachers and provided training to them. I learned how to nurture and develop people’s potential and thus the importance of understanding the differences between people - their strengths and weaknesses.
Executive Vice President, Creative Direction WGSN
What keeps you awake at night? Am I waking up with new ideas? Am I keeping everything fresh and inspirational to my team and to my customers? When do you feel most free? When I am running in central park with classical music on my headset. What is your view on money? Spend it if it makes you happy, then make more, and always remembering to give back. What is an extraordinary place you have recently traveled to? Marrakech in Morocco What’s one thing most people don’t know about you? I play tuba.
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中 国 通 CHINA HANDS
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Brian Buchwald 厣蜟䛸 Founder & CEO Bomoda
Brian Buchwald is the Founder and CEO of Bomoda, a leading global business intelligence company focused on the Chinese consumer market. Since founding Bomoda in 2012, Brian has worked with leading executives from over 100 corporations in building and shaping their China market capabilities. Bomoda, under Mr. Buchwald’s leadership, has established a unique position as the principal provider of data driven insights on the Chinese consumer as they buy both domestically and abroad.
What was your first job, and how did it shape your life? Mergers & Acquisitions analyst for Morgan Stanley in Silicon Valley in the late 1990’s. I learned true and lasting value was by the builder. It made me want to create things rather than be a banker. What was the last present you gave someone? I gave my wife a black Costume National Dress I purchased in SoHo last weekend (For 85% off). What was the last present you received? My son Julian Jack was born on March 2, 2016 and he is happy and healthy.
When do you feel most free? On long walks over the weekend along the waterfront on the west side of Manhattan. What books are currently on your bedside table? The Lorax and the Cat in the Hat (I have a 2 year old) What is an extraordinary place you have recently traveled to? I attended a wedding this past fall in Joshua Tree. The ceremony took place at sundown under an endless night sky and limitless landscape of rolling desert hills illuminated by stars so bright it appeared out of a children’s book.
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In 2010, Eric de Fontenay launched MusicDish*China to bridge Greater China’s independent music sector with the world. He has coordinated Taiwan cultural missions in France, Canada and the U.S., serving as an international consultant for Taiwan’s Government Information Office. Eric is the international manager for the mainland China’s biggest rock band Second Hand Rose ✳䩛梚槔 and representing Beijing rock acts Iron Kite ꜈굥癆, Gemini 皍鶴猌 and Namo ⽂偽 as well as as artist/designer Zhou Yi. He has organized talks and exhibition for NYCxDesign and China Institute, several concerts across North America and recently contributed a chapter on China’s music industry in the 4th edition of The Future of the Music Business.
Eric de Fontenay
What was your first job, and how did it shape your life? My first job was as a farmhand on a dairy farm in New Zealand when I was 17 and left home in NJ. I wanted to discover myself as a sort of rite of passage and realized that hard work and perseverance were the keys to achieving personal fulfillment. I would also learn that the greatest knowledge did not necessarily come from books, but life experience.
Founder & President MusicDish*China
What keeps you awake at night? The knowledge that life is far too short - so little time to do all the things, see all the places and meet all the people I need too. What books are currently on your bedside table? La Peste by Camus and Frank Miller’s The Dark Knight Returns When do you feel most free? When I am surrounded by the creative people who inspire me and that I have come to call my friends. What was the last present you gave someone? A helicopter tour of Manhattan What is an extraordinary place you have recently traveled to? Beijing never ceases to amaze me.
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Henry Fogel Board of Director Chicago College of Performing Arts at Roosevelt University
What was your first job, and how did it shape your life? Being part owner and program director of a classical music radio station from 1963-1978 in Syracuse, NY. It helped me develop management skills and business sensibilities. What keeps you awake at night? Fundraising responsibilities – where will I be able to find the money to achieve the projects that I believe are needed by my schools. When do you feel most free? I feel most free when I am listening to great music. What is your view on money? Money is a means for achieving important personal or professional goals, not an end in itself. What is an extraordinary place you have recently traveled to? We recently cruised through the Panama Canal – a great experience.
As Dean of the Chicago College of Performing Arts at Roosevelt University, my biggest project is planning for a theatre for the school. Both the Music Conservatory and Theatre Conservatory need a better theater for their performances. This will be a major addition to the school, and will involve a major fundraising effort.
What’s one thing most people don’t know about you? The first time I was in a Some don’t know that I am an experienced Chinese cook. Most don’t know that I also love sports.
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What was your first job, and how did it shape your life? I had a summer paper route on a small lake in Vermont, delivering the local paper and New York Times to the docks of home owners on the lake. I had to create the route – finding customers as well as delivering to them. It was a lot of work, and after paying for the papers, gas and plastic bags to keep the papers dry I had little profit. I learned the difference between revenue and net profit.
Jim Reiman
What keeps you awake at night? I worry about what I don’t know. If one knows what one doesn’t know, one can acquire the knowledge and plan, but not knowing what you don’t know means that you’re blind-sided when the unknown occurs.
ⵄ饎㡦
What books are currently on your bedside table? I enjoy stories about people and adventure, and am a fan of science fiction. I admire how the author creates a world and a society, and then explores human relationships within the construct of that fictional world and society. When I read for business, I usually look to books that discuss the history, politics and social mores of a region or the structure and organization of businesses and bureaucracies. Recent books I’ve enjoyed and recommend on China include: Chinese Rules, by Tim Clissold and How Chinese Leaders Think, by Robert Kuhn.
Principal Reiman ADR
Having practiced law for 18 years and built and run businesses both in the US and China, I’ve gained insights that permit me to see solutions to complex business disputes. I’m merging my two careers into a dispute resolution practice wherein I serve as a mediator or arbitrator for both domestic and international commercial transactions. I also serve as a director on the boards of companies and not-for-profit organizations.
When do you feel most free? On a sailboat or backpacking in the deep woods.
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Trace Ostergren 妍Ⰼ僤 Principal DIEZ
Trace is a native Hoosier, who lived three years in China and speaks Mandarin. His business includes consumer pyrotechnics and digital outdoor media. Trace enjoys playing tennis, the alto-sax and reading.
What was your first job, and how did it shape your life? I am one of three children in a family of entrepreneurs. Growing up I was always expected to support my family’s businesses, which is what I did. Jobs that I did included plumbing, landscaping and even septic-tank cleaning. What keeps you awake at night? Thoughts and ideas about my business and personal life. When do you feel most free? When accompanying a thought-provoking book with a frothy, bitter latte. What was the last gift you received? A saxophone. What is your view on money? Two cash-flows are better than one. A penny saved is a penny earned. What is an extraordinary place you have recently traveled to? Saigon, Vietnam What’s one thing most people don’t know about you? I played 10 years of ice-hockey. And was a Division 1 cross-country runner.
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Heather Joerger ワ嵳ⴵ
International Program Manager Chicago Sister Cities International , Division of World Business Chicago
For the past 3 years at Chicago Sister Cities International, I have overseen the international programs for Chicago’s sister cities of Busan, Delhi, Lahore, Osaka, Shanghai and Shenyang. At Fordham University I studied International Political Economy and Business Administration and for two years at Nanjing University and East China Normal University I studied Mandarin intensively. I am passionate about facilitating mutually beneficial collaboration between the United States and China. I am a member of Illinois State Comptroller Geissler Munger’s Asian-American Advisory Board and secretary and treasurer of my condo board. In my free time enjoy travel, spending time with family and attending Chicago Council on Global Affairs events. In 2016 I have begun learning Farsi.
What was your first job, and how did it shape your life? In my first full time position I was an Account Executive for a Forex company’s Chinese clients. That job taught me to ask many questions, to do more than what’s asked of me, to stay calm and positive in stressful situations and to keep in touch with former colleagues.!
What was the last gift you received? A gorgeous yellow lily arrangement from a Chicago Sister Cities International committee member What is an extraordinary place you have recently traveled to? A year ago I traveled to Indonesia for a scuba certification class on Gili Air, an island with no motor vehicles. Visiting the world of coral forests, reef sharks, green sea turtles and cuttlefish is truly euphoric and awe-inspiring.
What books are currently on your bedside table? Hank Paulson’s Dealing with China and Marie Kondo’s The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up When do you feel most free? When engaged in a lively conversation and when I’m out of my comfort zone, whether that’s 20 meters underwater, undertaking a challenging project, or navigating a new culture and language.
What’s one thing most people don’t know about you? Though I’m from St. Louis and attended university in New York, I came to Chicago after finishing my studies in Nanjing in order to live near my older sister and two younger brothers.
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Charles Sullivan
叅㼷倛• 䨾縄꡶ President Premier Event Management, Inc..
I am assisting Tong Ren Tang with the introduction of its amazing array of health promoting products in America. Tong Ren Tang is the famed Traditional Chinese medicine company that was founded in 1669. Our activities for Tong Ren Tang included arranging for Tong Ren Tang to be the title sponsor for the Chinese New Year Spectacular II concert at Carnegie Hall which featured the extraordinary Chinese pianist Jiaxin Tian playing as a soloist with the Manhattan Symphony orchestra. We also are in the process of purchasing wellness clinics on the East coast of America for Tong Ren Tang and establishing hospital and university relationships.
What was your first job, and how did it shape your life? My first job was to be deputy public relations director for the New England Patriots Football Club which my family owned and that job enabled me to be subsequently designated as the American Football League co-producer for the 1 st Super Bowl game held in Los Angeles on January 15 , 1967 between the Green Bay Packers and the Kansas City Chiefs. I was also the co-editor of the 1 st Super Bowl game program. What books are currently on your bedside table? The Kid, The Immortal Life of Ted Williams, the book about the famous Red Sox baseball player by Ben Bradlee, Jr. The Essays of Ralph Waldo Emerson. In the Garden of Beasts, the book about the American ambassador, William E. Dodd, during the period leading up to America’s involvement in World War II by Erik Larson. The Witch of Lime Street” about the rivalry between
Harry Houdini and a spiritualist known as Margery by David Jaher. What was the last present you received? An awesome collection of world coins from 64 different nations displayed at the Shanghai Expo of 2010. What is an extraordinary place you have recently traveled to? My family home on Nantucket Sound on Cape Cod with grand and glorious gardens designed by the landscape firm of the late Frederick Law Olmstead is the most extraordinary place on the planet and one I visit whenever I have a free moment. What’s one thing most people don’t know about you? Most people do not know that I attend four to five Zumba dance classes every week and I usually am the only person at those classes who is north of the age of 40.
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Andrew Reid 勚㸝鶓 VP, Social comScore Inc.
Following the comScore’s (NSADAQ:SCOR) acquisition of SponsorHub, where he served as co-Founder & CTO, Andrew currently leads comScore’s Social Media Data division. comScore is the leader in crossplatform media measurement for digital, movies, TV, social and mobile. Andrew spent over six years in Beijing at the beginning of his career, where he built a digital marketing agency. He has contributed digital, social, creative and analytics strategy to multiple award-winning ad campaigns for brands like Nissan, AT&T, BMW, Bose and many more. Andrew received an MBA from NYU’s Stern School of Business.
What was your first job, and how did it shape your life? My first post-college job was… teaching IT/History at an international school in Beijing. The amazing thing about teaching is that it is the BEST introduction to selling and presenting. You are basically pitching your ideas about something every day.
When do you feel most free? In nature. Oceans, mountains, islands, forests, lakes etc.
What books are currently on your bedside table? Currently, I’m reading Shift—the third book in the excellent science fiction series, Wool, by Hugh Howey. It is about thousands of survivors of a nuclear apocalypse who have build a society in a huge underground building called a “silo.” In non-fiction: Pitch Anything and Tribes.
What is an extraordinary place you have recently traveled to? Seattle: If you like nature and hiking, it is pretty much paradise (at least when the sun is shining).
What’s your view on money? The only way to be free from money is to have enough of it. Defining “enough” is extremely difficult.
What’s one thing most people don’t know about you? I used to be a rapper. Maybe I still am.
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Robert Collins 넞卌倛
CEO DOING CHINA BUSINESS LLC
What was your first job, and how did it shape your life? I started my entrepreneurship career early at the age of 13 as a paper boy delivering newspapers. You learn how to run a business, responsibility, how to deal with people, how to manage money, organizational skills, and more. When do you feel most free? I feel the most free when I am bicycling in the countryside in China. My favorite destination are in the mountains of MoGanShan and for island life it would be Heng Sha Dao—both of which are outside of Shanghai. I’ve biked more than 3,000 miles in China. What is an extraordinary place you have recently traveled to? My son taught English in rural China in a village called Da Zhai. It’s located in the mountains of central Yunnan province. It is a beautiful rural setting with a cavernous valley and brilliant show of stars at night. After two flights to get to the nearest city, you must take a three hour bus ride on dirt roads that twist through the mountains. While stunningly beautiful, the mountainous journey is not for the faint hearted.
Rob Collins specializes in cross-border business between China and the U.S. He represents U.S. companies expanding into China and Chinese companies coming to America. Lately, China’s fast growing e-commerce market keeps him busy bringing U.S. consumer brands to China. Rob has lived and worked in China for nearly 20 years, but now spends most of his time in Chicago.
What’s one thing most people don’t know about you? I do a lot of mentoring to millennial just starting out and start-up businesses. I like to give something to others and also to help entrepreneurs succeed.
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Patrick Regan ⟣兰僈 Owner PWR Studios
Since I left China in 2006, my art career has found me working as a gallerist, auction specialist, consultant and appraiser. Currently I spend most of my time with private clients, working with their art collections, helping them build and edit. I also have a few organizations and artists I consult with on occasion and teach two classes on the art market at New York University. This past year, the appraisal side of my business has taking up more and more of my time and I am finding myself enjoying it. All these roles help to give me a balance between the social, business and academic sides of my personality. Also, working independent allows for some flexibility to spend more time with my wife two small children. Always very important!
What books are currently on your bedside table? I have a short attention span, so I am usually reading several things at once. Right now I have been going over the Magnus Resch book “Management of Art Galleries”. There is a lot of very good, if not well-received, insights and information in there. I also have been chipping away at Damien Ma’s In Line Behind a Billion People. It’s about the challenges of different scarcities in China and how they will affect growth. Damien is a friend and quite brilliant. A fascinating read. Of course it is not all work related. I have an endless queue of pulp historical and science fiction novels I consume regularly! What was the last gift you gave someone? My son and I baked a batch of cookies for our barber the other day. Gave the chance for my 4-yr-old to see how fun it is to give a gift to someone you spent time on. He was so excited; she loved it; and we had a blast in the kitchen!
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When do you feel the most free? Whenever I am enjoying time with my family and can forget about work. Also, when I schedule appointments I make sure to leave some time to just walk around whatever city I’m in with nowhere particular to go. Manhattan, Beijing, Hong Kong… Not always possible, but always enjoyable. Mind and body out for a walk. What is your view on money? Being raised without much of it… I’ve learned to respect it and work hard for it. While it’s true that money doesn’t buy happiness, it certainly can buy the things that help you find it! Most importantly: time, travel, and security. We are trying to show the importance of financial intelligence to our children, without making everything about money. A fine line sometimes!
Joe Mallon 끩饪㣗
Vice President The Chinese Fine Arts Society
I have the honor of serving as Vice President of The Chinese Fine Arts Society (CFAS). It’s a privilege I take very seriously. This year, my goal is to help CFAS continue to bring Chinese art forms to the City of Chicago. I strongly believe that we are a stronger city and country when we can bring Chinese culture to our citizens.
What was your first job, and how did it shape your life? I’ll go with my main job instead of my first. I spent twenty-five years as a partner at Deloitte & Touche, a large multinational accounting and consulting firm. As a partner, I learned the importance of honesty and integrity. I learned how to put others first. I liked helping our younger staff develop and mature as professionals. My clients depended on me, and that is a responsibility I took very seriously.
What was the last present you gave someone? A hand-engraved plaque to the retiring Vice President of Business Affairs for North Central College in Naperville. He has dedicated his entire career to the college, and is a great guy.
What books are currently on your bedside table? Iris Chang’s The Chinese In America. I think that Iris Chang was a wonderful author. Her book, The Rape of Nanking, was life-changing for me. The world is a sadder place without her. Mulberry Child, by Chicago’s own Jian Ping. Read the book and watch the award-winning film The Drop, by Dennis Lehane. He is probably the best neo-noir writer out there right now. I’m a big noir lover, both with books and movies. So read the book, then see the movie!!!
What is an extraordinary place you have recently traveled to? New York. No matter how many times I visit, I’m still amazed by its vibrancy.
What was the last present you received? I received a beautiful scarf from Jackie Chan’s Long Yun Kung Fu Group. It was very touching.
What’s one thing most people don’t know about you? I’m pretty much an open book. I love people, and love hearing their stories and telling mine.
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Principal Gitlin Global Consulting
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My Personal â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Mottoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; (which I wrote myself in Chinese!) ĺ&#x201A;&#x2C6;é ¤â&#x2122;§â&#x161;&#x160; ä&#x17D;&#x192;朏â&#x2122;§ä&#x20AC;&#x201D; 即揰䝼ä&#x201A;˝ (English Translation): To climb a hill can take one day; To ascend a mountain can take one year; But to scale the tallest summit in the world can take a lifetime!
When do you feel most free? When I am relaxing with my close family and friends. What was the last present you received? A leather diary.
What was your first job, and how did it shape your life? I was an international tour guide leading groups of American and Canadian travelers to Mainland China and The Soviet Union. That role gave me my first lessons in leadership, and enabled me to broaden my global perspective through travels to many â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;off-thebeaten-pathâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; corners of the world.
Whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s your view on money? It must be used wisely, and benevolently. What is an extraordinary place you have recently traveled to? Saint Pierre and Miquelon (ă&#x2013; 桟ă&#x2122;Šăźˇă&#x201E;¤ăş&#x2122;âŻ&#x2DC;ęĽ&#x2018;) â&#x20AC;&#x201C; a small island of 6,000+ people near Canada that is the only remaining territory of France in North America.
What books are currently on your bedside table? Becoming Steve Jobs (by Brent Schlender & Rick Tetzeli) Life and Death Are Wearing Me Out ď&#x161;łćŹ°ĺ¨Ľć°&#x2022;⸣ď&#x161;´ CZ UIF
Whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s one thing most people donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t know about you? If I werenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t working in my current profession, I would be a teacher.
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Volume Two: 2016
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