BXAI

On August 18, 2026, Bai Xian Asia Institute (BXAI) hosted a special luncheon at the Asia Society Hong Kong Center. Bringing together friends, partners, and alumni from across the Bai Xian community, the event provided a vibrant platform for intergenerational dialogue, networking, and insightful exchanges centered on the theme, “Retention vs. Migration: The Talent Challenge in Asia.”

In Conversation: Insights from CASETiFY Leadership

Following the video presentation, attendees enjoyed an enlightening panel discussion moderated by Ms. Ronna Chao, CEO of BXAI. Joining her on stage were senior leaders from global tech accessory brand, CASETiFY: Ms. Kei Chan, Vice President of Global Marketing, and Mr. Wellington Lai, Director of Strategic Initiatives and Governance at the CEO Office.

The panel explored organizational culture, talent mobility and development, and navigating modern career trends across Asia. Speaking on core attributes in talent, Ms. Chan highlighted judgement, accountability, and adaptability as essential qualities for global teams. To retain and effectively develop talent within the company, Mr. Lai shared CASETiFY’s philosophy of prioritizing depth over breadth. “We give the right scope, the right ownership, and the decision rights to them at the appropriate stage,” he explained. “Sometimes it’s tempting to add more responsibilities to those who seem capable, but it may not be the right time because they are not ready. At CASETiFY, we start by helping them build credibility and experience before adding more responsibility.”

Turning to evolving workplace expectations among Gen Z, the speakers noted that younger talent prioritize continuous learning, agency, and impact over predictability or compensation alone. “Gen Z is not really looking into money, but instead, they may think, ‘Am I learning, trusted, and doing something meaningful? Do I see myself becoming more capable here?’” reflected Mr. Lai. Finally, panelists discussed how AI is reshaping hiring processes. To

navigate AI-filtered recruitment, Ms. Chan advised fresh graduates to look beyond standard job boards and actively leverage networking, campus outreach, and mentorship to build authentic professional connections. “My tip for the younger people is to really try to network,” she said. “Get to know your parents’ friends, participate in programs, and find mentors who are willing to share their experiences and help you. Being proactive, showing up, and demonstrating a willingness to learn goes a long way.”

The panel concluded with an engaging Q&A session, with audience members posing questions on topics such as accountability and integrity in the AI era, managing cultural differences and retention, and the importance of having relevant academic degrees when it comes to recruitment.

BXAI extends its gratitude to Ms. Kei Chan and Mr. Wellington Lai for generously sharing their time, expertise, and wisdom with the Bai Xian community, as well as to Asia Society Hong Kong Center for their support in hosting this meaningful gathering. We look forward to more opportunities for dialogue, continuous learning, and cross-cultural exchange in the near future!

Reflecting on Intercultural Journeys

Setting an inspiring tone for the afternoon, a short video served as a prelude to the panel discussion, featuring Bai Xian Scholars who shared about their personal journeys of living and working abroad. Through stories of the unique opportunities and challenges these scholars encountered along the way, the audience was invited to consider the various factors driving today’s new generation of professionals, and the organizational cultures businesses should cultivate to retain young talent.

(Hong Kong, September 22, 2026) Hosted in partnership with The Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK), the BXAI Summer Program 2026 was held from August 3 to 18, bringing together 69 Bai Xian Scholars from across Asia. The immersive two-week experience kicked off with a prelude excursion to Shenzhen before continuing in Hong Kong.

Centering on the theme, “Humanity in the Digital Age,” this year’s program invited scholars to explore the intersection of technology and human values through academic sessions, interdisciplinary dialogue, and real-world case studies. Beyond academics, the Summer Program also included a wide range of experiential learning opportunities such as excursions, team building activities, personal development workshops, and student-led presentations – all designed to strengthen essential soft skills in communication, collaboration, and leadership.

Kickstarting the Cross-Cultural Learning Journey

The Summer Program began with a prelude excursion to Shenzhen, a dynamic hub in the Greater Bay Area located just across the border from Hong Kong. Scholars explored the city’s diverse landscape through three themed routes: (1) nature and ecology at Futian Mangrove Ecological Park alongside the high-tech energy of bustling Huaqiangbei; (2) history and art at Nantou Walled Town and Dafen Oil Painting Village; and (3) modern city architecture at Ping An Finance Center and the Sea World Culture and Arts Center.

Welcoming the 2025 Cohort

The program officially commenced on August 5 with an orientation, welcome lunch, team building activities, and a campus tour. Prof. Ko Wing Hung, Associate Vice-President (Student Experience) and University Dean of Students at CUHK, alongside Prof. Katsuichi Uchida, President of BXAI, welcomed the 2025 cohort of Bai Xian Scholars with opening remarks introducing this year’s theme. Ms. Ronna Chao, CEO of BXAI, encouraged students to remain open-minded and curious while embracing discomfort when encountering new challenges throughout their two-week journey.

Discovering Hong Kong

Each Summer Program includes immersive excursions that introduce scholars to the host city’s history, culture, and contemporary life while creating space for meaningful connections. Following the kickoff, scholars embarked on a three-day exploration of Hong Kong’s cultural tapestry and natural wonders. The itinerary included visits to Victoria Peak, Tai Kwun, Yim Tin Tsai, Sharp Island (part of Hong Kong’s UNESCO Global Geopark), and Xiqu Centre, where scholars took part in the Tea House Theater Experience. On August 12, students toured the Mass Transit Railway (MTR) Light Rail Depot in Tuen Mun, where they engaged with a train simulator and learned about the operations of Hong Kong’s world-class transit system during a light rail ride across the district.

Despite the summer heat and humidity, participants expressed their appreciation for the chance to bond with fellow scholars. “Every day’s activities had something I looked forward to,” reflected one student. “Experiencing this with new friends made me enjoy the Summer Program even more!”

Interdisciplinary Perspectives on AI and the Digital Age

Distinguished CUHK professors and guest speakers led two academic sessions exploring technology, society, and public policy. Scholars examined digital platform research, the impact of AI on social science, and philosophical trade-offs in research. Through discussions on hybrid intelligence, they considered how AI can complement human capabilities, affirming the essential role of empathy and judgment in responsible public governance.

During a panel discussion on “Designing the Future of East Asia,” experts evaluated regional socioeconomic trends and demographic challenges, encouraging scholars to collaborate across borders on future-oriented solutions. Meanwhile, at a seminar titled, “Diplomacy in the Digital Age,” Mr. Kuninori Matsuda (member of the Advisory Council of the DTEK in Ukraine and Advisory Council member of BXAI) emphasized that while digital technology accelerates global communication, future leaders must rely on core human values such as compassion, empathy, and ethical judgment to foster international trust and cooperation.

Skill-Building and Personal Growth

Personal development and self-discovery are also key areas of focus at every Summer Program. Through a series of interactive workshops covering leadership, public speaking, communication, and self-awareness, scholars gain essential skills to navigate their future academic paths and professional endeavors with confidence.

The ever-popular “Conducting Leadership” Workshop used orchestral conducting as a metaphor for leadership in practice. One student reflected, “We had a truly amazing experience understanding leadership from a different perspective.” In an AI-driven era, the “Expressing Your True Self” Workshop helped scholars identify their authentic voices and develop their personal brands on social media, prompting spirited discussions on personality profiles after the session. Additionally, the “Connected Communication” and “Public Speaking” Workshops offered practical training in active listening, strategic communication, and effective presentation delivery.

Community Engagement and Connection

Building community and fostering collaboration remain central pillars of the Summer Program experience. During the alumni evening, students connected with returning scholars from previous cohorts over dinner, trivia games, and shared stories. For their final presentations, scholars worked in interdisciplinary teams as they reflected on their two-week learning journey and addressed challenges related to “Humanity in the Digital Age.”

At the “Coffee & Chat” session, members of BXAI’s leadership discussed how technological advancements have reshaped human communication, sharing their thoughts on how to forge deeper, more meaningful connections in an automated world. The panel was followed by a vibrant mingling session, where students exchanged insights with speakers and their peers.

A Memorable Conclusion

Marking the culmination of the Summer Program, the final day featured BXAI’s signature events, including an art workshop, the Closing Ceremony, and a gala dinner.

The Closing Ceremony opened with welcoming remarks from Prof. Anthony Chan, Pro-Vice-Chancellor of CUHK. The keynote speech was delivered by Mr. David Sutherland, CEO of International Care Ministries, who shared insights from his career across corporate finance and poverty reduction and urged scholars to balance technological data with human empathy. Reminding his audience that human dignity must remain at the center of innovation, he said, “Use the data, build the systems, take advantage of the technology, but never lose sight of the person that these tools are meant to serve. Because the future will certainly be digital, but the people living in the future will still be human.”

An award ceremony followed, where the Best Presentation Award, the Audience Choice Award, and Summer Program certificates were presented to scholars. On behalf of the 2025 cohort, Grace Regina Landra from CUHK delivered a graduation speech reflecting on vulnerability, fear of failure, and her growth during the Summer Program. Emphasizing that “AI can process, but only a human can dare,” she encouraged her peers to embrace imperfection and take risks as they build bridges across cultures.

Ms. Ronna Chao then gave her closing remarks, thanking CUHK, the BX team, and partners while highlighting the importance of staying human in a rapidly changing digital era. Calling on scholars to serve as active cross-cultural bridge-builders, she urged them to lead with empathy, courage, and integrity: “Continue to hone these skills as they are irreplaceable, and use them as you venture on, no matter where your pathways may take you.” The afternoon concluded with the handover ceremony, where Prof. Anthony Chan passed the BXAI calligraphy book to Prof. Yang Bin, Vice Chancellor of the Tsinghua University Council and professor at Tsinghua’s School of Economics and Management, symbolizing the passing of the baton to the host of next year’s program.

The Summer Program officially ended with a celebratory gala dinner at the Courtyard by Marriott Hong Kong Sha Tin. Scholar talent was on full display through performances of traditional dombra music, Thai dance, popping, and singing. Awards were also presented for the best social media campaign and for best story and best editing under the “Bai Xian Hong Kong-lights” city tour activity. Marking the successful completion of the 11th BXAI Summer Program, the evening offered a memorable close to two transformative weeks of cross-cultural connection, learning, and friendship.

About the BXAI Summer Program

The BXAI Summer Program is an important component of the Asian Future Leaders Scholarship Program (AFLSP). Designed to extend learning beyond the classroom, the Summer Program aims to provide scholars with a unique opportunity to explore important topics, build community, and develop 21st-century skills in an immersive and engaging setting. Through exchanges with influential global leaders, panel discussions, academic sessions, and skill-building workshops, scholars are able to broaden their perspectives and develop a greater understanding of important issues that relate to Asia and its role in the changing global landscape. In addition, field trips, workshops, and special tours allow scholars to experience the local culture and customs of the host country, while experiential activities provide opportunities for scholars to form friendships and memories that will last a lifetime.

To learn more about BXAI, please visit: www.bxai.org

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