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For this year’s event, we looked at the huge
opportunities Asia’s rapid growth has provided
for New Zealand and showcased stories from
those who have succeeded in Asian markets.
For those of us wishing to engage with Asia, it is
easy to become overwhelmed by focusing on the
big picture. However, in many ways, to succeed
in Asia, it is the ‘small’ that matters most. We
need to think small which means identifying our
strengths and leveraging them to benefit from
Asia’s growth.
The conference examined emerging market
trends; explored opportunities for Kiwi
entrepreneurs; and brainstormed on how to think
innovatively for Asia. It is our goal to develop an
understanding on how to position ourselves in
the global picture; as well as recognise and act
upon opportunities that have, and will continue
to arise in Asia.
We invited a diverse group of speakers and
students (from tertiary institutions throughout
New Zealand) to this conference reflecting our
own national cultural diversification. Our expert
speakers, owner-managers from small and larger
firms shared their experiences, inspiring the
audience to become more “Asia-savvy”.
In addition to the Q&A sessions after our panel
discussions, there were ample networking
opportunities during the workshop and team
activities. We invited the students, as the
upcoming generation of New Zealand’s work
force, to maximise the opportunities provided at
this forum. They were encouraged to be brave
and share ideas; to challenge the status quo;
to keep an open mind and listen to others; and
lastly, to make the most of this conference to
learn, develop and connect.
After all, adventure-seeking is in our blood, and
we must be able to “think big and small” when
it comes to planning our future. As potential
future leaders and change-makers, we hope
that our conference helped equip our Asia-
savvy graduates with both the knowledge and
relationships to maximise their contribution to
New Zealand business and society.
Kind regards
Annie Ren
Asia Savvy Committee
Asia: Thinking Big and Small
New Zealand Asia Conference 2016
Conference concepts