“She Inspires” Mentorship Programme: Inheriting the Wisdom of Women Leaders

As announced in the 2024 Policy Address, the Home and Youth Affairs Bureau launched the “She Inspires” Mentorship Programme (the Programme), which matches local female university students aspiring to pursue careers in the professional or business sectors with women leader mentors. Through sharing and guidance, the Programme supports young women in their career development, life planning and personal growth. Kicked off in July this year, the Programme features influential women leaders from various sectors as mentors, who passes on professional insights and life experiences. We are honoured to speak with one of the mentors, Mrs Ann Kung Yeung Yun-chi. With extensive experience in both the banking sector and public service, she is passionate about nurturing talent and guiding young women who are exploring their personal and professional paths.

Traits and Strengths of Women Leaders

Born and raised in Hong Kong, Ann grew up in a family that deeply valued both education and family responsibilities. She studied and worked across Hong Kong, China; Canada and the United States, building expertise in accounting, finance and management. Her decades-long banking career included senior roles such as Deputy Chief Executive of Bank of China (Hong Kong) (BOCHK) and various senior positions at Standard Chartered Bank. Beyond her professional accomplishments, she has been actively involved in public and community service, dedicating herself to youth development and women’s empowerment. Guided by her belief in “giving back to society”, she integrates professional excellence with social responsibility to open doors for the next generation.

When asked about the key traits of a successful woman leader, Ann emphasised the importance of communication, “Leadership requires strategy and vision, but more importantly, one must communicate well to unite the team and turn vision into reality.” She highlighted women’s innate strengths in communication and empathy, “combining strength and gentleness, being observant and meticulous – qualities that foster trust and collaboration.” At the same time, Ann acknowledged that young women may struggle with self-doubt or family responsibilities during their career journeys. She encourages them to pursue their dreams with courage and confidence, noting that merit-based workplace cultures are becoming increasingly prevalent. With competence and confidence, gender should never be a barrier.

Rising to Challenges with Determination

Reflecting on her career, Ann acknowledged the many challenges she faced, each offering valuable lessons. One particularly defining moment was the 2008 global financial crisis. Amidst widespread layoffs, BOCHK’s leadership made a bold decision not to lay off staff, choosing instead to adapt its strategies to weather the storm together. Having just joined the bank at the time, Ann was deeply moved by this decision, which went on to shape her values and perspectives on decision-making.

As financial technology evolved rapidly, Ann led her team through structural reforms and business transformation, embracing agile management and prioritising customer experience. “This is not just a technological shift — it is a cultural and mindset transformation,” she remarked. Such transitions demanded quick learning, strong coordination and resilience. A leader, she said, must remain calm and focused while guiding the team forward.

When feeling overwhelmed by the workload, she relies on two key practices to manage stress: rational time management and having dinner with family. “A meal with loved ones can be the best way to recharge.” She believes that there’s always a way forward, and with a positive mindset, any challenge can be overcome.

Mentorship as a Journey of Mutual Growth

Asked about her motivation to join the “She Inspires” Mentorship Programme, Ann replied without hesitation, “Because I believe young people are our future.” She hopes that by sharing her local and international experiences, she can help mentees grow and avoid unnecessary setbacks. More than just giving back, she sees mentorship as a mutually enriching journey, “Young people are sharp, courageous and innovative. They are our teachers, too. It’s a win-win experience.” She encourages mentees to set clear goals before joining, reflect on what they hope to gain, and proactively build trust and communication with their mentors, “Be prepared in both mindset and time commitment to make the most of it.” To her, mentorship is not about one-way teaching, but about walking together — it is an investment in the future.

A Message to Young Women: Stay Positive and Embrace Challenges

“Young women today should embrace four essential entrepreneurial mindsets: believe in your own value, prioritise teamwork, be willing to take responsibility, and be innovative in solving problems,” Ann said. She emphasised that women in the corporate world should not only seek recognition, but demonstrate leadership and proactively create value to empower their teams. Looking back on her student years, Ann admitted that if she had understood herself better, she might have taken a different path. She chose accounting under the influence of her father, “but only later realised at work that it wasn’t my true passion.” She encourages young people to explore broadly and embrace mistakes as part of the learning process.

To young women still seeking their path, she offers one piece of advice: “Think positive.” She believes that a positive mindset is the most powerful tool for overcoming adversity. “Life won’t always be smooth sailing, but with perseverance and faith, challenges will pass, and success will come.” She hopes that young women will embrace their dreams and take that first step. Though the journey ahead may be uncertain, by believing in themselves and moving forward, they will create their own brilliant life path.