The 10th Wuhan University Alumni Luojia Forum opened on November 29 in the lecture hall of the newly inaugurated Lei Jun Technology Building.

With the theme "Digital Intelligence Galvanization, Cultural Empowerment", the forum welcomed distinguished alumnus Zhang Qian, a 1990 computer science graduate, fellow of the Hong Kong Academy of Engineering Sciences, and acting head of the Division of Integrated Systems and Design at the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, as well as Dou Wentao, a 1985 journalism graduate and renowned host of popular programs like Behind the Headlines With Wentao and Roundtable.

The event was attended by President Zhang Pingwen, Vice-President Li Ziyuan, and Chen Dongsheng, founder of the forum, director of the Alumni Entrepreneur Association of Wuhan University (AEAWHU), and chairman and CEO of Taikang Insurance Group. More than 300 alumni and student representatives also participated. The forum was hosted by Jian Hong, secretary-general of the AEAWHU.

Zhang Pingwen, president of Wuhan University, delivers a speech at the 10th Wuhan University Alumni Luojia Forum on November 29. [Photo/whu.edu.cn]

In his opening remarks, Zhang Pingwen warmly welcomed the alumni and guests, describing the forum as a meaningful event that allows alumni to reconnect with their alma mater. He highlighted the immense contributions of WHU alumni in enhancing university resources, recruiting talent, and driving academic revitalization. Zhang also praised their ongoing mentorship and career guidance, emphasizing that Wuhan University’s unique alumni culture exemplifies the enduring strength and charm of its graduates. He said he hoped that this year’s forum would inspire students to explore the integration of technological innovation and traditional culture.

Chen Dongsheng, founder of the forum, director of the Alumni Entrepreneur Association of Wuhan University, and chairman and CEO of Taikang Insurance Group, speaks at the 10th Wuhan University Alumni Luojia Forum on November 29. [Photo/whu.edu.cn]

Chen Dongsheng reflected on his motivation for initiating the Alumni Luojia Forum in 2014. He said his vision was to foster innovation and entrepreneurship education at the university through a dual approach: establishing a startup fund to support students and alumni, and creating an annual forum to share stories, ideas, and cutting-edge trends. Chen recalled carving the word "Begin" into a stone at Luojia Mountain, where Wuhan University's main campus is located, at the age of 26. He encouraged students to set goals, persevere, and stay focused on doing the right things.

Lei Jun, executive director of the Alumni Entrepreneur Association of Wuhan University and chairman and CEO of Xiaomi, delivers a video message to the 10th Wuhan University Alumni Luojia Forum on November 29. [Photo/whu.edu.cn]

Lei Jun, executive director of the AEAWHU, and chairman and CEO of Xiaomi, sent a video message celebrating Wuhan University’s 131st anniversary. He credited his alma mater for teaching him to embrace the unknown and tackle challenges, values that laid the foundation for his success.

Zhang Qian delivered an inspiring speech on how technology empowers health. She shared memories of her formative years at the School of Computer Science, where she discovered the joy of innovation and creation. Grateful for the university’s high-level research opportunities and global exchanges, Zhang described her journey of overcoming challenges to achieve world-class results, including her time at Microsoft Research Asia.

“Aim for the best — you’ll eventually get there,” she advised, encouraging students to pursue meaningful, impactful, and personally fulfilling careers. She also presented her team’s research breakthroughs in the health sector and expressed an eagerness to collaborate further with her alma mater.

Dou Wentao, in his signature lighthearted and engaging style, reflected on navigating pressure and uncertainty. Using his struggles at Phoenix TV as an example, he encouraged students to find strength in adversity and trust that opportunities would eventually arise. Dou also shared insights from his three-decade career in media and his passion for authentic, meaningful conversation.

Following their speeches, Zhang and Dou interacted with students, answering questions about career goals, personal growth, and overcoming challenges.

The forum concluded with an impromptu discussion featuring Chen and Jian, who joined the roundtable discussion one after the other. They shared fond memories of their youth, their deep affection for Wuhan University, and their perspectives on life and success, earning enthusiastic applause from the audience.

Participants gather for a group photo at the 10th Wuhan University Alumni Luojia Forum on November 29. [Photo/whu.edu.cn]

Co-hosted annually by Wuhan University and the Alumni Entrepreneurs Association, the Alumni Luojia Forum has become one of the university’s most influential alumni events over the past decade. It serves as a vital platform for nurturing innovative talent and strengthening the bond between the university and its graduates.