BIV is proud to recognize Yajing (ChiChi) Wang, vice-president of communications and external affairs at Sungiven Foods, and 39 exceptional business leaders with 2022 Forty under 40 Awards.
Each recipient is featured in BIV's annual Forty under 40 Magazine, and will be celebrated at an awards gala Feb. 22. Profiles of each award recipient – originally published in the magazine – will be available at biv.com in the days ahead.
Who or what is responsible for your work ethic?
I had a life-changing experience of saving a girl’s life when I was 10 years old. This experience taught me that I could make a difference in the lives of others and this led to me becoming a social entrepreneur, focused on doing good in the world.
What drives you?
I believe we are given this life to learn about ourselves and others; to become enlightened. This motivates me to learn from life’s lessons so that I can develop a greater understanding of others and work collaboratively in the spirit of compassion and love.
A favourite book you would recommend?
When Women Ruled the World: Six Queens of Egypt by Kara Cooney. I believe we should learn from history and I’m interested in exploring how these women built consensus in a collaborative way as leaders.
Now that you are (or are close to) entering your 40s, what goals have you set for yourself?
My goal is to lead innovative and even unique projects that promote sustainability, unite people, support Indigenous communities and foster international development. Most importantly, I want to contribute to positive change and advance the public good.
What was your childhood career dream?
I always wanted to become a writer and documentary filmmaker. When I was 13, I wrote a novel about school children time travelling through the world.
What advice would you give your 20-year-old self?
If you really want to go kite surfing, go kite surfing.
What is your best habit?
I can sleep anywhere, any time. I am the master of sleep.
Tell us one improbable fact about yourself.
I’m an excellent reader of oracle cards and on a journey to becoming an energy healer.
Best piece of advice ever received?
My grandfather’s advice was to always be true to myself, persevere in my ambition to become independent and be a light for others. He passed away last year so his words of advice are more important to me than ever.
What is the biggest lesson you’ve learned in business?
I’ve learned that trust is essential in business relationships.
What career highlight are you most proud of?
I was the initiator and organizer for the UN Women gender equality conference and “HeForShe” campaign in Hangzhou, China. I established key relationships with UN Women and mobilized resources to engage over 50,000 supporters. I built this initiative from the ground up, developing strong relationships across the globe.
What’s left to accomplish?
As I get older, I am increasingly energized to share the compassion that is in my heart. For me, it’s about slowing down and taking the time to give back.
Read the profiles of all 40 award recipients in BIV's annual Forty under 40 Magazine. Register to recognize this year's winner at the Forty under 40 Awards gala on Feb. 22.
