From 17th to 30th April 2025, Shandong Foreign Trade Vocational College, with support from the Ministry of Commerce of People Republic of China, organised a seminar on “Poverty Reduction through Youth E-Commerce & Capacity Building” in Qingdao, China.
The seminar was delivered by various experts of different sectors: Ms. Cui Wei, Mr. Zhang Xibao, Mr. Zhang Penggang, Mr. Meng Bo, Ms. Wang Baohang, Mr Tan Bin, Mr. Zhang Xiaheng, Mr. Xu Bin, and Mr. Lv Jianjun.
The main objective of the seminar was to provide participants with a comprehensive overview of the history, ecosystem and impact of China’s Cross-border Ecommerce on Economic Development and it’s role in elevating the citizens from poverty. Through the seminar, it provided the opportunity to learn and engage with industry experts, then witness a rural revitalization project at Maojiashan Village, and various factories and warehouses.
The seminar opened with remarks from Ms.Liu Min, President of Shandong Foreign Trade Vocational College and Ms. Wang Baohong, Director of China-aid Training Office who shared insights on China’s remarkable e-commerce development and its role in poverty reduction. Ms. Wang highlighted how China has become the world’s largest online retail market for 12 consecutive years, with cross-border e-commerce reaching over 220 countries and regions worldwide. She emphasized the seminar’s focus on sharing China’s rich experience in using digital commerce as a pathway to sustainable development and economic opportunity, particularly for youth in developing countries. Albert was then invited to deliver his own address on behalf of the participants, setting the tone for the programme.
Albert Shim, founder and CEO of the Synomus (trading as Shimple Solutions), driven by his passion for learning and the ever-evolving AI and tech landscape, delved into further understanding the ways digital tools like e-commerce are reshaping opportunities and livelihoods in vulnerable communities through this seminar. He emphasises this in his opening remarks where he focused on how digital commerce has the potential to democratise international trade while building resilience and economic diversification.
💡Digital commerce levels the playing field by allowing even the smallest entrepreneurs to access global markets. With just a smartphone and an internet connection, young business owners can promote their products, reach international buyers and manage transactions without the need for traditional infrastructure. This opens up new income streams while reducing dependency on a single sector and builds a more resilient, diversified economy. An economy driven by innovation, not location.
In his speech, Albert linked this idea to Brunei’s Digital Economy Master Plan 2025 and highlighted the importance of international knowledge-sharing, referencing the Chinese saying,
他山之石，可以攻玉
stones from other hills may serve to polish the jade of this one
He ended his speech with a beautiful reflection of this proverb, emphasising how,
By learning from each other’s experiences and combining practical field visits with classroom learning, we could create better futures for young people in our respective countries.
Albert also shared how he was particularly moved by the story of a rural apple farmer who began livestreaming his daily life. What started as a simple act of connection eventually blossomed into a thriving free-range chicken business. All because he was able to reach and engage with online viewers.
For Albert, this story embodied the heart of digital commerce’s potential: how accessible platforms can spark unexpected economic opportunities especially in underserved communities.
Beyond his opening speech, Albert engaged deeply with the programme’s activities by bringing home lessons not only in policy but also in the power of everyday kindness and digital inclusion. We asked him what was a memorable inspiration from his experience from the seminar and he shared how it was the opportunity to witness China’s comprehensive e-commerce approach to digital inclusion and rural revitalisation.
Albert reflected on China’s long-term commitment to infrastructure investment.
“What I’m most grateful for is understanding the importance of infrastructure investment,” he shared. “China’s years of dedication to connecting even the most remote villages has created a logistics network where products can reach anywhere in this vast country within 3 to 4 days.”
This realisation, he noted, reinforced how true e-commerce accessibility isn’t just about digital platforms; it also depends on physical infrastructure ensuring connectivity and inclusion.
During a visit to the China-Korea Handicrafts and Accessories Centre, Albert saw this in action: the centre’s ability to produce over 10,000 jewellery items for global brands like Tory Burch and H&M stems from its streamlined logistics and rapid prototyping capabilities– often turning designs into products within just weeks! It was a powerful example of how infrastructure enables innovation at scale.
One of the most memorable reflections Albert shared wasn’t just about policy or platforms but a cup of milk tea at Peony Gardens, gifted by a kind local vendor to a group of strangers. That simple act, he said, captured the spirit of the entire programme: generosity, shared learning and meaningful connection.
Albert’s reflections remind us that it’s not only the formal lessons or grand events that shape us but also the quiet moments of kindness, shared experiences and unexpected insight. As a full member of YEAB, his voice in this regional platform exemplifies the kind of representation we hope to nurture and amplify: youth who are globally engaged, socially aware and driven by purpose.
His experience in China reflects what YEAB stands for:
💡Building bridges between Brunei and the region
💡Cultivating leadership through exposure
💡Amplifying the youth voices on issues that matter
For aspiring entrepreneurs looking to grow, connect and make an impact, YEAB is more than a network – it’s an investment. It’s a launchpad.
YEAB deeply appreciates the valuable lessons and experiences Albert has brought back from the seminar. Insights that enrich not just his journey, but our collective growth as a community. We’re excited for what lies ahead as our members continue to shape conversations that go beyond borders and drive meaningful impact at home and abroad.