Sustainable Philanthropy: Designing Projects That Outlast the Donors

When I first became involved in philanthropy, I thought the goal was simple: give money to a cause and hope it made a difference. Over time, I realized that giving is only part of the equation. True impact comes from designing projects that continue to thrive long after the initial donation. Sustainable philanthropy is about […]

The Ripple Effect of a Single Mentor in a Community

When we think about making an impact, we often imagine large-scale efforts, organizations, or programs. But sometimes the biggest difference comes from one person investing time and care into another. Mentorship is one of the most powerful ways to create change. A single mentor can influence not just one individual but an entire community. The […]

Multicultural Mentorship: What Global Leaders Can Learn From Intergenerational Dialogue

Why Mentorship Matters in a Global Context Mentorship has always been a powerful tool for growth, but in today’s interconnected world, its value has expanded even further. When mentorship crosses cultural boundaries and includes voices from different generations, it becomes more than guidance. It becomes a shared journey of learning that shapes stronger, more adaptable […]

Women at the Helm: Building Wealth, Leading Change, and Lifting Others

As a woman in the world of global finance and entrepreneurship, I’ve often found myself walking a line between tradition and transformation. I was raised with strong cultural values in China, where leadership was often imagined in male form. And yet, I also grew up with the quiet but powerful influence of the women around […]

Wealth With Purpose: The Philosophy Behind the Botrich Family Wealth Heritage Center

When I co-founded the Botrich Family Wealth Heritage Center, I wasn’t just building a financial services firm, I was building a philosophy. One rooted in values I’ve held for much of my life: the belief that wealth is not simply about accumulation, but about intention, responsibility, and legacy. Today, Botrich serves families and individuals around […]

Leading With Grace: How Recognition Inspires Responsibility, Not Ego

A Medal and a Message When I was honored with the King Charles III Coronation Medal, I felt a mix of pride and humility. To receive recognition from a monarch is no small thing—it comes with weight, with meaning. But while the public sees the glitter of the award, what I feel most is the […]

Hong Wei Liao Applauds Youth Talent in Opera and the Transformative Power of the Arts

Opera has long been a vessel for timeless stories—combining music, emotion, and performance in a way that few other art forms can. This spring, Vancouver Opera’s production of Madama Butterfly captivated audiences at the Queen Elizabeth Theatre with its breathtaking staging, emotional depth, and standout performances. Yet beyond the beauty and tragedy of Puccini’s masterpiece, […]