UC Shum Choi Sang Mentorship Programme held its first industry networking activity of the year on 31 January at CUHK InnoPort. The event featured two alumni mentors—Mr Chris K Y Pun (05/COMM) and Mr Stanley S K Wong (14/ECON)—who shared their entrepreneurial journeys and practical experiences under the theme “From Vision to Venture – Navigating Careers and Entrepreneurship.” The event attracted around 30 mentors and mentees, providing a valuable platform for learning and exchange. Drawing from their personal experiences, the speakers discussed key decisions and challenges along the entrepreneurial path, offering candid and practical advice on how young people can better prepare themselves and plan their future career development.

During the conversation session, participants actively discussed key issues such as the challenges of entrepreneurship, preparation before starting a venture, and the differences between entrepreneurial and conventional career paths. The speakers highlighted that beyond capital or detailed planning, a resilient mindset—the ability to handle pressure, overcome setbacks, and adapt to uncertainty—is the most critical preparation for entrepreneurship.

Regarding the question of how career planning differs between entrepreneurs and typical professionals, the speakers noted that entrepreneurs often need to become “generalists”, taking on multiple roles at different stage and managing areas such as the market, product development, operations, and communication with agility. By contrast, traditional career paths tend to emphasize deepening expertise within a single discipline, shaping individuals into “specialists”. Neither path is inherently superior – the choice ultimately depends on one’s personal goals and individual disposition.

As for whether entrepreneurship requires going “all in,” the speakers pointed out that, given the current economic climate, starting a business does not necessarily demand a do-or-die commitment or charging ahead at full speed. Pursuing a slasher career path or engaging in entrepreneurship in stages can be equally viable approaches. In an uncertain macro environment, taking a more cautious “safe-move” strategy can itself serve as a form of risk management. Young people can accumulate experience and resources while testing their ideas, allowing them to avoid taking an excessive risk too early when the broader outlook remains unclear.

Mr Enders W H Lam (far right), Council Chairperson of the UC Alumni Association, and Ms Dorothy K Y Chu (far left), College Secretary, presented souvenirs to alumni speakers Ms Chris Pun (2^nd left) and Mr Stanley Wong (2^nd right).

The event concluded with a networking session, where participants engaged in in‑depth conversations with the speakers in a relaxed setting, gaining further insights into entrepreneurship and career development, and drawing inspiration for their future paths.