On 14 October 2024, I had the privilege of moderating a panel at the Global Youth Entrepreneurs Forum 2024, the flagship entrepreneurship event organised by The Hong Kong Federation of Youth Groups (HKFYG). The Hong Kong programme took place at the HKPC Building and brought together young founders, investors, technology leaders and entrepreneurship specialists from around the world.
The forum’s theme, “The New Wave of Artificial Intelligence in Business,” could not have been more timely. More than 300 participants joined the multi-city programme spanning Hong Kong, Macau and Shunde, Foshan, to explore how AI is reshaping industries and creating new possibilities for the next generation of entrepreneurs.
New challenges and opportunities for young entrepreneurs
I moderated the panel “New Challenges and Opportunities Facing Young Entrepreneurs” with Christina Ong of HSBC, King Leung of Invest Hong Kong, Keith Li of the Hong Kong Wireless Technology Industry Association, and Tergel Odgerel, CEO and Co-Founder of Phronesis.
Bringing together perspectives from banking, investment promotion, technology and international entrepreneurship allowed the discussion to move beyond AI tools. We examined the decisions founders must make when markets, customer expectations and technology are all changing at the same time.
Three lessons for founders navigating the AI era
1. Solve a real customer problem before adding AI
AI can improve speed, personalisation and productivity, but it is not a substitute for a compelling value proposition. Young entrepreneurs should first identify a meaningful customer need and then determine where technology creates measurable value.
2. Build credibility as deliberately as the product
Early-stage businesses need trust from customers, investors, partners and employees. A clear brand story helps founders explain why the problem matters, why their approach is different and why their team is equipped to deliver.
3. Think beyond one market
The forum’s Hong Kong, Macau and Foshan programme highlighted the advantages of cross-border learning and Greater Bay Area connections. Going global requires more than translation: founders must understand local behaviour, business networks, regulation and routes to market.
Why human communication matters more in an AI-enabled business
As AI makes content and analysis easier to produce, judgment and communication become even more important. Founders still need to win confidence, align teams, persuade partners and turn complex ideas into stories people understand. This is why my AI and digital marketing training focuses on both practical tools and the human thinking needed to use them responsibly.
Event details
- Event: Global Youth Entrepreneurs Forum 2024
- Theme: The New Wave of Artificial Intelligence in Business
- Hong Kong date: 14 October 2024
- Venue: HKPC Building, 78 Tat Chee Avenue, Kowloon, Hong Kong
- Organiser: The Hong Kong Federation of Youth Groups
- Panel moderated by Dr Bernie Wong: New Challenges and Opportunities Facing Young Entrepreneurs
Frequently asked questions
What was the Global Youth Entrepreneurs Forum 2024?
It was an HKFYG flagship programme connecting more than 300 young entrepreneurs, investors, industry experts and business leaders. The 2024 programme examined business opportunities created by AI and included activities in Hong Kong, Macau and Shunde.
What does an entrepreneurship panel moderator do?
A moderator frames the topic, connects the speakers’ perspectives, asks follow-up questions and helps the audience translate expert experience into practical insight.
Can Dr Bernie Wong moderate an entrepreneurship or AI event?
Yes. For panel moderation, keynote speaking or customised corporate training in Hong Kong and Asia, please use the contact page.
Sources: HKFYG Global Youth Entrepreneurs Forum programme and annual report; HKUST Entrepreneurship Center event listing; Bernie Wong’s LinkedIn event posts.
