On 11 November, the 2025 Fortune China 500 Summit brought leading executives, innovative entrepreneurs and industry experts to Shanghai to discuss the future of business in a rapidly changing world. Among those in attendance was our very own Joy Qiao, Chair of Wellington College Education (China), who, earlier this year, was named to Fortune China’s 2025 Most Powerful Women (MPW) Future List.

 

Centred on the theme ‘Harnessing Momentum, Expanding Frontiers: The Next 25 Years of the 21st Century,’ the summit explored how organisations can foster intelligence, resilience, and sustainability amid ever-evolving global dynamics.

Running alongside the main summit, the Fortune China MPW Breakfast and Awards Ceremony celebrated the achievements of rising female leaders. Joy took centre stage to receive the Most Powerful Women (Future List) award, which honours trailblazers redefining leadership and inspiring others across industries.

This year’s MPW session focused on ‘Seeking Real Growth,’ with dynamic discussions about overcoming inward competition—or “involution”—and unlocking new opportunities for progress. During a town hall discussion, Joy addressed several pressing issues facing education in China today, including how the education system contributes to the broader trend of 'involution,' or non-productive competition. This sparked a compelling conversation about the changes needed in education to better prepare our children for the future.

As the business world prepares for the next 25 years, the summit served as a timely reminder that resilience, inclusion and forward-thinking leadership will be essential for meaningful progress. Through Joy’s leadership and continued advocacy, the entire group is being inspired and empowered to embrace these values, fostering a new generation of leaders who are collectively prepared to face the challenges—and seize the opportunities—of tomorrow.