Tristan Ace
Chief Engagement Officer, Policy Head and Northeast Asia Coordinator, AVPN
Tristan AceIn today’s fast-changing environment, the social sector is witnessing a transformative shift in leadership styles. The traditional models of leadership are being redefined by a new generation of leaders who bring diverse perspectives, innovative approaches, and a deep commitment to social impacts.
This year’s On Board Hong Kong conference, The Changing Faces of Leadership in the Social Sector, aims to explore these dynamic changes and highlight the emerging trends that are shaping the future of leadership in the social sector.
Participants will have the opportunity to engage with thought leaders, practitioners, and innovators who are leading this transformation. Through insightful discussions, interactive sessions, and collaborative networking opportunities, attendees will gain valuable insights into the best practices and strategies that are driving social change.
Whether you are a social sector practitioner, corporate leader, or social innovation enthusiast, this conference will provide the insights and connections needed to navigate and lead in this new era of social sector leadership.
On Board is offered by The Hong Kong Jockey Club Programme on Social Innovation and organized by the Rustandy Center for Social Sector Innovation at the University of Chicago Booth School of Business. Learn more about On Board 2024.
Thursday, March 20, 2025
The Ballroom, Level 7, Cordis Hong Kong
Time | Event |
8:30 a.m. |
Registration; Light Breakfast |
9:00 a.m. |
Welcome Remarks |
9:10 - 10:10 a.m. |
Opening Keynote: Implicit Bias: How We Come to Choose What We Don't Necessarily Want |
10:10 - 10:30 a.m. |
Networking Break |
10:30 - 11:30 a.m. |
Session 1: Charting New Paths: The Future of Social Innovation |
11:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. |
Session 2: United for Impact: Collaborative Leadership and Cross-Sector Partnerships |
12:30 - 2:00 p.m. |
Networking Lunch |
2:00 - 3:45 p.m. |
Workshop (Option 1): Catalysts for Impact: Unleashing the Inner Talent of Social Sector Leaders |
2:00 - 3:45 p.m. |
Workshop (Option 2): Measuring Impact: Aligning Funders and Social Purpose Organizations |
2:00 - 3:45 p.m. |
Workshop (Option 3): Connecting Hearts and Minds: Strategies for Effective Impact Messaging |
4:00 - 4:20 p.m. |
Closing Session |
4:20 - 5:00 p.m. |
Impact Cocktails |
8:30 a.m.
Registration; Light Breakfast
9:00 a.m.
Welcome Remarks
Host:
Wai-Sinn Chan, MBA ’02, MPP ’02, Senior Director, Nonprofit and Civic Engagement Programs, Rustandy Center for Social Sector Innovation, Chicago Booth
9:10 - 10:10 a.m.
Opening Keynote
Implicit Bias: How We Come to Choose What We Don’t Necessarily Want
We generally think of the choices we make in life as more or less deliberate. We identify our options and then pick those that best match our preferences. Sometimes we may do this with great care, other times we just approximate.
However, behavioral science research demonstrates that in many instances choices come about in a different manner. Rather than following some more or less careful decision process, choices are instead often shaped by implicit influences that remain outside of our awareness. As a result, our choices are at risk of implicit bias, driven by factors that, upon reflection, we would deem irrelevant or inappropriate.
The presentation will cover how implicit bias comes about and what personal and organizational strategies can help to circumvent it.
Faculty Speaker:
Bernd Wittenbrink, Robert S. Hamada Professor of Behavioral Science; Wei Cai Faculty in Residence for Spring Quarter 2025, Chicago Booth
Moderator:
Wai-Sinn Chan, MBA ’02, MPP ’02, Senior Director, Nonprofit and Civic Engagement Programs, Rustandy Center for Social Sector Innovation, Chicago Booth
10:30 - 11:30 a.m.
Charting New Paths: The Future of Social Innovation
In this new era marked by rapid change and unprecedented challenges, the social sector must continuously adapt to remain effective and impactful. This plenary session will delve into the strategies and mindsets that leaders can adopt to navigate uncertainty and drive social innovation.
Hear from visionary leaders who have successfully steered their organizations through turbulent times, leveraging creativity, resilience, and forward-thinking approaches. We will discuss the implications of economic uncertainty, technological advancements, sustainability, and hybrid work models on the social sector. We will also explore how embracing change can unlock new opportunities for social impact and shape the future of the sector.
Panel Speakers:
David Bishop, Associate Professor (Teaching), HKU; Co-Founder and Director, Foundation for Shared Impact
Dorothy Lam, Co-Founder and Chief Catalyst, Dream Impact HK Ltd
Billie Lau, ’20 (AXP-19), Executive Director, The Boys’ and Girls’ Clubs Association of Hong Kong
Moderator:
Miranda Wong, ’22 (AXP-21), Secretary-General, The Dragon Foundation; Supervisor (Youth Exchange), The Hong Kong Federation of Youth Groups
11:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.
United for Impact: Collaborative Leadership and Cross-Sector Partnerships
Addressing complex social issues requires a collaborative approach that transcends traditional boundaries. This plenary session will highlight the power of cross-sector partnerships and the role of collaborative leadership in driving systemic change.
Gain insights from leaders who have forged successful alliances between the social sector, corporations, and government agencies. We will explore emerging trends and critical elements that are reshaping collaborative efforts, including trust-building, shared vision, and resource pooling. This session will showcase best practices and innovative models for partnership, demonstrating how collaborative leadership can break down silos, foster innovation, and pave the way for a more inclusive and resilient future.
Panel Speakers:
Tristan Ace, Chief Engagement Officer, Policy Head and Regional Coordinator North East Asia, AVPN
Garrick Lau, Head of Sustainability and Shared Value, Nan Fung Group
Vivica Xiong, ’22 (AXP-21), CEO, Asian Charity Services
Moderator:
Catherine Tong, Executive Director, HandsOn Hong Kong
2:00 - 3:45 p.m. Workshop (Option 1)
Catalysts for Impact: Unleashing the Inner Talent of Social Sector Leaders
In the dynamic landscape of Hong Kong’s social sector, organizations face significant challenges in leadership continuity, employee retention, and talent acquisition. As people are the cornerstone of any social purpose organization, it is crucial to develop adaptive talent strategies that align with the organization’s mission, respond to changing workforce expectations, and address the organization’s needs.
Leveraging the , this session offers practical insights into building competencies among social sector practitioners. Attendees will learn the framework’s essential components, with a special focus on the Inner Compass, which emphasizes self-reflection, personal values, and inner strength. The workshop will feature a panel of thought leaders who will share their insights on aligning organizational purpose with personal purpose. Participants will engage in self-reflection exercises and group activities designed to cultivate self-awareness, self-motivation, long-term visioning, and develop sense-making skills to maximize their impact within their organizations and the broader community.
Workshop Partner:
Third Sector Connect (Noel Lam, Founding Director)
Panelists:
Peter Poon, Chief Program Officer, The D.H. Chen Foundation
Dianna Yip, Founder and Director, P.L.A.I. Behaviour Consulting; CEO, PBSA.Asia
Glenda Yu, CEO, WYNG Foundation
2:00 - 3:45 p.m. Workshop (Option 2)
Measuring Impact: Aligning Funders and Social Purpose Organizations
As the demand for transparency and accountability grows, social purpose organizations are increasingly expected to quantify and demonstrate their impact. However, comprehensive impact measurement can be resource-intensive, posing a significant challenge for many organizations. This workshop aims to address the disconnect between the need for impact data and the funding available to support its measurement.
There will be a dynamic and engaging discussion that brings together social purpose organizations, funders, and impact measurement experts. We will explore critical questions such as what to prioritize, best practices, the importance of balance, and the role of funders in supporting these efforts.
Through interactive sessions and expert insights, this session will foster meaningful dialogue, share best practices, and create actionable solutions to ensure that impact measurement is both effective and sustainable. Participants will leave with a deeper understanding of the current landscape, practical tools for measuring impact, and strategies for securing the necessary funding to support these vital activities.
Workshop Partner:
The Social Investment Consultancy (Kyrus Siu, Director, Greater China)
Panelists:
Brian Cheng, ’24 (AXP-23), CEO, Generation Hong Kong
Jenny Choi, Senior Manager (Continuing Care), St. James’ Settlement
Ruby Yong, Program Director, The D.H. Chen Foundation
2:00 - 3:45 p.m. Workshop (Option 3)
Connecting Hearts and Minds: Strategies for Effective Impact Messaging
In the nonprofit sector, the ability to communicate effectively is crucial for driving social change and engaging stakeholders by fostering stronger empathy. This workshop will delve into the art and science of impact messaging, providing participants with the innovative tools and strategies needed to connect with their audience on a deeper level and serve different purposes.
Through interactive sessions, case studies, and group activities, attendees will gain practical insights and hands-on experience in crafting and delivering impactful messages. By the end of the workshop, participants will be equipped with storytelling skills to effectively communicate their organization’s mission, engage stakeholders, and drive meaningful change.
Workshop Partners:
Edelman Hong Kong (Angela Hui, ’15 (AXP-14), Head of Corporate)
SONOVA (Steven Tsoi, CEO & Co-Founder)
Panelists:
Matthew Lee, Assistant Vice President, HKEX Foundation
Fion Leung, Co-Founder and CEO, Time Auction
Charlotte Tottenham, Chief Development Officer, Mind HK
4:00 – 4:20 pm
Closing Session
This is an opportunity for participants to consolidate their understanding of the challenges faced by nonprofit organizations in Hong Kong and the strategies discussed during the workshops. It will also provide a high-level summary of the conference before progressing to the Impact Cocktails.
4:20 – 5:00 pm
Impact Cocktails
This informal networking session is intended for participants to exchange ideas, identify potential areas for collaboration and exploration, and to foster a sense of community. Expect to leave with a renewed sense of purpose, armed with actionable insights and connections that can contribute to ongoing work in the social sector.
Visit our Speakers page to learn more about the thought leaders who will speak at this year’s On Board.
Chief Engagement Officer, Policy Head and Northeast Asia Coordinator, AVPN
Tristan AceAssociate Professor (Teaching), HKU; Co-Founder and Director, Foundation for Shared Impact
David BishopSenior Director, Nonprofit and Civic Engagement Programs, Rustandy Center for Social Sector Innovation, Chicago Booth
Wai-Sinn Chan, MBA 鈥02, MPP 鈥02Chief Executive Officer, Generation Hong Kong
Brian Cheng, 鈥24 (AXP-23)Senior Manager (Continuing Care), St. James’ Settlement
Head of Corporate, Edelman Hong Kong
Angela Hui, 鈥15 (AXP-14)Co-Founder and Chief Catalyst, Dream Impact HK Ltd
Dorothy LamFounding Director, Third Sector Connect
Noel LamExecutive Director, The Boys' and Girls' Clubs Association of Hong Kong
Billie Lau, 鈥20 (AXP-19)Head of Sustainability and Shared Value, Nan Fung Development Limited
Garrick LauAssistant Vice President, HKEX Foundation
Matthew LeeCo-Founder & CEO, Time Auction
Fion LeungChief Program Officer, The D.H. Chen Foundation
Peter PoonDirector for Greater China, The Social Investment Consultancy (TSIC)
Executive Director, HandsOn Hong Kong
Catherine TongChief Development Officer, Mind HK
Charlotte TottenhamCEO and Co-Founder, SONOVA
Steven TsoiRobert S. Hamada Professor of Behavioral Science; Wei Cai Faculty in Residence for Spring Quarter 2025, Chicago Booth
Bernd WittenbrinkSecretary-General, The Dragon Foundation; Supervisor (Youth Exchange), The Hong Kong Federation of Youth Groups
Miranda Wong, 鈥22 (AXP-21)CEO, Asian Charity Services
Vivica Xiong, 鈥22 (AXP-21)Founder and Director, P.L.A.I. Behaviour Consulting; CEO, PBSA.Asia
Dianna YipProgram Director, The D.H. Chen Foundation
Ruby YongCEO, WYNG Foundation
Glenda YuEdelman is a global communications firm that partners with businesses and organizations to evolve, promote, and protect their brands and reputations. With 6,000 employees across over 60 offices, Edelman develops communication strategies that build client confidence and stakeholder trust. The firm boasts an array of accolades, including PRWeek’s Agency Dynasty of the Past 25 Years and Cannes Lions Independent Agency of the Year for the Good Track.
SONOVA is a Hong Kong-based cause-marketing agency allied with Social Ventures Hong Kong (SVhk). At SONOVA, we believe in the power of purpose-driven communications to create a transformational impact on people, organizations, and communities. Our mission is to foster cross-sector cooperation by bridging industry and societal goals, actively collaborating with educational institutions, foundations, nongovernmental organizations, and corporations.
Founded in 2008, The Social Investment Consultancy (TSIC) is a global social impact consultancy with offices in the UK, Ghana, India, Hong Kong, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, and New Zealand. Over 500 organizations across 30 countries have been supported, including foundations, corporations, social enterprises, nonprofit organizations, and international development agencies. TSIC combines lived experiences with professional and academic expertise, driving inclusive and equitable growth.
At Third Sector Connect, we serve as a “corporate doctor” for nonprofit and social enterprises, helping to clarify and address the complex challenges they face in operations and management. Our services include comprehensive consultation and advice, aimed at not only solving problems but also unblocking leaders’ inner hurdles.
The Hong Kong Jockey Club Programme on Social Innovation provides resources and programs to help the city’s NGOs, nonprofit leaders, and social entrepreneurs do their best work. Operated by the University of Chicago Booth School of Business, the Programme offers a range of opportunities, including scholarships, social entrepreneurship workshops, and trainings for NGO boards of directors and board members.
For questions, please contact Iris Choi, Sr. Assistant Director of Programs, The Hong Kong Jockey Club Programme on Social Innovation, Rustandy Center for Social Sector Innovation.