The Story Behind the ESEA Club

For years, I've felt something missing. Despite the rich contributions of Chinese and East and

Southeast Asian people in the UK - in business, the arts, public service and beyond - we've often

lacked visibility, support and representation in the spaces where real decisions are made.

We have talent. We have ambition. But what we've needed is structure - a platform to bring people

together, open doors and create lasting impact.

That's why the ESEA Club was formed.

A Platform Long Overdue

I've been fortunate to serve in several public-facing roles - from Chair of Southside BID, helping

shape the identity of Birmingham's cultural quarter, to Chair of the Chinese Festival Committee,

where we've grown the city's Chinese New Year celebrations into the second largest in the UK after

London.

In recognition of this work, I was humbled to receive an honorary doctorate from Aston University.

But these milestones aren't just personal achievements - they're part of a bigger picture. Because

no matter how far we've come, there's still more to be done.

Too many in our community remain underrepresented. Young people lack visible role models. Newly

arrived professionals struggle to find networks. And while our festivals are well attended, our

presence in leadership and public life remains too limited.

The ESEA Club exists to change that.

Our Mission Is Clear

We want to:

Elevate the visibility of Chinese and ESEA professionals and entrepreneurs

Connect new and established individuals across sectors and generations. Empower people to step into leadership roles, civic life and public platforms. Celebrate our cultural identity and share it proudly with wider society. Strengthen ties with the UK and with the countries we trace our roots to. This is about taking our rightful place in the conversation - locally, nationally and internationally.

Second Generation, First Priority

Too often, second and third generation British Chinese and ESEA individuals have felt the need to

choose between cultural identity and professional ambition. We believe that's a false choice. Whether you were born here or arrived more recently, you should be able to thrive in your career while remaining connected to your roots. The ESEA Club is here to support that balance - through professional networking, cultural exchange and civic engagement.

A Shared Vision, A Trusted Circle

Although the idea for the Club began with me, I've never wanted to build it alone. James Ng has encouraged me for years to step into more community leadership. His advice, calm

voice and belief in what I could do have stayed with me. Joanna Lee-Mills, a close friend and confidant, has always been there to support - even as she's openly wrestled with feeling distant from her Chinese roots. She brings a grounded perspective and a shared desire to reconnect, represent and uplift. Together, we've shared a vision. And now, we're sharing the responsibility of building something

meaningful.

It Starts Here

The ESEA Club is just getting started. Through events, mentoring, visibility and advocacy, we are

creating a space where identity and ambition go hand in hand. We're not just filling a gap - we're building a movement. And if you believe in the value of our voices, our culture and our potential, we welcome you.

For more information or to get involved, contact info@eseaclub.com