The China Institute Next Generation x Serica (CINGS) community has had an inspiring and action-packed September—one that reflects its mission to empower next-generation leaders driving environmental and social impact.

🌟 Building Momentum: The September 22 Town Hall

On September 22, CINGS members gathered for a Town Hall meeting to reflect on the group’s recent progress, share updates on upcoming events, and discuss how fundraising plays a vital role in advancing their mission.

The conversation centered on how CINGS can continue to grow as a network of socially conscious changemakers—and how every member can help amplify the organization’s reach. Participants also learned about exciting opportunities for deeper engagement, including special access to Serica’s exclusive CEO Dinner Series, where CINGS members get the rare chance to pose direct questions to some of the most influential business and cultural leaders shaping U.S.–Asia relations today.

The members also discussed the CINGS Giving Circle 2025 cycle starting in October.

Annually, the CINGS Giving Circle pools a portion of the membership dues to grant funds to nonprofits and social enterprises. It is one of the most consistent, unique, and impactful parts of the CINGS experience since its founding. In past years, CINGS handled the whole process internally, but this year, they are partnering with 美好社会咨询社 A Better Community (ABC) to lead the process.

The meeting closed on a high note, with CINGS’s New York–based members heading out together for a lively dinner at Fogo de Chão, strengthening the bonds that make this community so dynamic.

🌏 Partnering for the Planet: CINGS at NYC Climate Week

Just days later, on September 25, CINGS joined forces with the China Institute and Young China Watchers (YCW) for a special Climate Week NYC event exploring how collaboration between the United States and China can accelerate sustainability and innovation.

With the two nations responsible for nearly 40% of global emissions, cross-border cooperation is critical to tackling the climate crisis. The event brought together an exceptional lineup of experts and industry leaders who shared insights on mobilizing business, capital, and communities toward a more resilient future.

Opening

The opening remarks set a thoughtful tone for the evening. Frank Huang of the China Institute shared the Institute’s rich history as a bridge for cultural and policy dialogue between the United States and China, highlighting its upcoming centennial celebration. Yvonne Liu, Head of Strategy at CINGS, then introduced the mission of CINGS and its commitment to convening leaders for meaningful cross-border climate action, emphasizing how this annual Climate Week forum contributes to that mission. Finally, Elaine Chow, New York Chapter Head of Young China Watchers, spoke about YCW’s role in fostering informed and forward-looking conversations among the next generation of US–China policy and business leaders.

Panel 1: Unlocking Business Value through Sustainability

Moderated by Kenny Chen, Co-Chair of Programming at CINGS, the first panel focused on how businesses are embedding sustainability into their core strategies to drive both climate progress and competitive advantage.

Panelists included Scott Song, Global Head of ESG Reporting and Financial Assurance at CBRE Group; Alfie K. Zhang, Assistant Secretary General of the Zijiang Foundation; and Zetian (Tim) Zhang, Global ESG Controller at Herbalife. Together, they explored how companies are moving beyond compliance to treat ESG as a source of innovation, operational resilience, and long-term value creation. The conversation underscored the importance of credible reporting, robust data systems, and practical partnerships that bridge geographies and sectors.

Panel 2: The Future of Capital in Climate and Sustainability

The second panel, moderated by Elaine Chow, New York Chapter Head of YCW, turned the focus to the role of capital markets and investment in enabling the net-zero transition.

Andrew Chang, CEO of New Energy Nexus; Jing (Jane) Ge, Founder and Managing Partner of Vectors Capital; and Thomas Shiekman, Senior Vice President at Intralink discussed how finance is evolving to support climate innovation. They highlighted the need for patient capital, stronger policy signals, and new mechanisms to de-risk investments so that emerging technologies can scale more rapidly and cross-border capital flows can accelerate.

The event concluded with a vibrant networking reception that brought together speakers, participants, and partners to continue building connections. The strong turnout and engaged discussions reflected a shared recognition that progress on the climate crisis hinges on practical collaboration between the United States and China. 

💬 Looking Ahead: Private Salon with Kevin Xu

Next up, CINGS will host a private conversation with Kevin Xu, founder of Interconnected, to explore the rapidly evolving world of AI and technology across the U.S. and China. This exclusive event will offer CINGS members valuable insights into how technological innovation and policy shifts are reshaping global connectivity and collaboration.

🤝 Stay Connected

CINGS continues to grow as a community of young leaders committed to bridging cultures, industries, and generations. Whether through philanthropy, climate action, or thought leadership, CINGS embodies Serica’s mission to elevate Asian diaspora voices and foster meaningful cross-border dialogue.

🔗 Follow CINGS on LinkedIn for the latest news, event updates, and ways to get involved.