Toronto-based leader shares how slow growth, cross-cultural guidance, and daily reflection shape long-term impact
TORONTO, ON / ACCESS Newswire / June 17, 2025 / In a newly released interview titled "Hong Wei Liao on Building Legacy, Mentorship, and Quiet Impact," philanthropist and legacy advisor Hong Wei Liao is urging individuals to embrace small, consistent actions that build stronger communities-especially through mentorship.
Born in Hunan, China, and now based in Toronto, Liao's story is rooted in family, education, and service. She leads the Botrich Family Wealth Heritage and Development Center, where she guides families in planning not just wealth, but values. But in this rare, in-depth conversation, she shifts the focus from business to something deeper: building legacy through quiet, consistent care for others.
"Success isn't just what we achieve," Liao explains. "It's what we inspire in others."
This message is urgent in a world where nearly 70% of mentored youth say they're more likely to attend college, yet only 1 in 3 young people today has a mentor, according to MENTOR Canada. Liao's work through the Canada Youth Funding Association (CYFA) aims to change that. She supports youth-led initiatives, sponsors scholarships, and mentors rising entrepreneurs-one of whom is now preparing a 3D tech company for IPO.
But Liao emphasizes that mentorship doesn't have to be formal. "Sponsor or mentor one person every year who doesn't have access to the same privileges you do," she says. "Even quietly. Even anonymously."
Her advice reflects her own routine. Her days begin in stillness-with tea, reflection, and a few lines of poetry. "Reflection gives shape to the next day," she says. This habit of slowness, she believes, is key to sustainable leadership. "Don't be afraid of slowness. Fast results fade. Slow progress lasts."
Her quiet approach also shows up in how she brings ideas to life. Rather than rushing, she lets them sit and tests them through conversation. "If an idea keeps coming back, I listen. That's when I know it's time."
Liao also raises a unique idea that aligns legacy planning with the arts: "Music, dance, and storytelling are part of family legacy. They help preserve emotion and memory across generations."
In an era often dominated by quick wins, her voice offers a different model-one built on trust, listening, and daily discipline.
Call to Action:
Readers are encouraged to act on the principles Liao lives by: support one young person this year, reflect daily, and lead by example rather than attention. Small actions, when done with care, can create powerful change.
About Hong Wei Liao
Hong Wei Liao is a Toronto-based philanthropist, investor, and mentor. She is the founder and Chair of the Botrich Family Wealth Heritage and Development Center. Her work spans legacy education, women's leadership, youth development, and cultural engagement. She has received recognitions from Queen Elizabeth II, King Charles III, and UNICEF for her community impact.
To read the full interview, click here.
Contact: info@hongweiliao.com
SOURCE: Hong Wei Liao
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