HKUST alumni are renowned for their ability to “think differently”, and that is exactly what Bennet Tsui, (2007 BBA Marketing and Information Systems) aims to do as the new President of the HKUST Alumni Association (HKUSTAA). Bennet is working under the principles of Alumni First – being part of the ‘A1 Team dedicated to helping alumni connect under "We are Family". This means unconditional care, providing immediate help, inspiring and advising each other.

Bennet has big plans to engage more members with innovative events that tap into current trends and the A1 philosophy of “Alumni Inspire Alumni”. The Founder of 5 Miles Lab, a digital marketing agency, Bennet aims to bring more interactive and digital experiences to HKUST alumni, boosting wellness events, activities around community service, and entrepreneurship networking.

“At HKUST, I had a wonderful hall life and studying was so much fun, so I hope we can keep this type of experience up for alumni as well,” Bennet says. Highlights for Bennet from HKUST include an exchange semester in Mexico, and this type of adventurous spirit epitomizes what Bennet is all about – exploring, searching and meeting new people to benefit the community.

Having served HKUSTAA for nine years, he sees the potential for collaboration. “I’m so grateful to have the chance to be President. Our motto is ‘Alumni inspire Alumni’, we want to organize some events to reinforce this philosophy,” Bennet says.

New and exciting events have included a craft beer workshop that allowed alumni to learn more about local brews, and understand more about the differences between craft offerings and overseas beers. There are other chances for alumni to connect with each other at social events such as the latest vegan Christmas party, along with the opportunity to support charitable causes such as animal welfare and adoption, and community service, with the likes of giving out gifts to the elderly.

This year, mental and physical health are at the top of the list of issues to address. “People are stressed out, especially during COVID-19, and wellness is really important, along with supporting alumni with parenting tips. Delivering inspiration to alumni will form a central part of my mission – let’s bring some positive energy to alumni,” Bennet says.

Events will be available both in-person, and of course digitally, given that Bennet has a digital marketing background. He even plans to have some events that offer tips from KOLs (Key-Opinion-Leaders) on social media marketing to learn “new survival skills”.

At the heart of Bennet’s initiatives are learning more, enjoying life, and bringing enrichment to alumni. “This is a process of discovery, we hope to offer events that are inspiring and tailor-made for our alumni”