We are thrilled to announce the launch of our Pioneering Series, a new initiative created to celebrate the bold thinkers and visionary leaders who are shaping our future and redefining the boundaries of what is possible.

For our inaugural session on 18 September 2025, we were profoundly honoured to welcome a distinguished alumna back to her spiritual home: Ms Venetia Lee, CEO of AlipayHK and Ant International Greater China General Manager. Her journey from the classrooms of Maryknoll Convent School to the forefront of the global fintech stage is a powerful testament to the far-reaching impact of a Maryknoll education.

Ms Lee, a graduate of UC Berkeley and Stanford, has been a driving force in the digital payments revolution. With an illustrious career spanning leadership roles at industry giants like Apple Pay, PayPal, eBay, and DBS, she has spearheaded innovation not only across Hong Kong, Macao, and Taiwan but also in markets as diverse as the Middle East and Russia. Her work has fundamentally transformed the way millions of people interact with technology and finance.

In a conversation that was both insightful and deeply personal, Ms Lee shared the narrative of her professional journey, woven together with the enduring values and lessons instilled in her during her time at Maryknoll. She spoke with candour about navigating the complexities of leading international teams, the breakneck pace of fintech evolution, and the critical importance of remaining curious and adaptable in an ever-changing world.

Our students embraced the opportunity, engaging in a dynamic Q&A session filled with thoughtful questions. They explored how her Maryknoll experience shaped her leadership philosophy, the nuances of managing cross-cultural teams, and her perspective on the future of finance and technology. Ms Lee responded to each question, from career-defining moments to advice for aspiring innovators, with warmth and clarity, leaving our students inspired to think boldly about their own paths.

We could not be prouder of our students, whose intellectual curiosity, confidence, and eagerness to learn illuminated the hall. Their engagement perfectly embodies the Maryknoll spirit we strive to nurture: to be vibrant learners, courageous thinkers, and compassionate leaders poised to make a difference.

We would like to express our heartfelt thanks to Ms Venetia Lee for so generously returning to the hall where her own journey began. In sharing her story, she did more than just chart a career path; she lit a beacon for the pioneers of tomorrow. This event was a powerful reminder that our roots provide the strength to reach remarkable heights. We are eager to see our students carry this inspiration forward to shape a future filled with boundless possibilities.