EdUHK Hosts ‘The Family Blueprint: Sustaining Legacy, Advancing Hong Kong’ Lecture
Featuring Professor Mahesh Harilela Sharing Insights on Tradition and Innovation
The Education University of Hong Kong (EdUHK) held a distinguished lecture entitled ‘Family Blueprint: Sustaining Legacy, Advancing Hong Kong’ on Wednesday, 22 October. The event featured Professor Mahesh Harilela, Family Council Convenor of Harilela Group Ltd., renowned entrepreneur, and philanthropist, who shared his extensive experience in family governance, business succession, and sustainable development.
The Harilela family, a Sindhi Indian business family rooted in Hong Kong for nearly a century, has built a diversified portfolio spanning hospitality, real estate, trade, and jewellery. As a model of successful family business succession in Hong Kong, the Harilela Group exemplifies resilience and innovation. Earlier this year, Professor Harilela was appointed Adjunct Professor of the Department of Social Sciences and Policy Studies (SSPS) at EdUHK, further strengthening ties between academia and the business world and nurturing future leaders in family governance, wealth management, and sustainability.
In his opening remarks, Professor Ken Yung Kin-lam, Associate Vice President (Knowledge Transfer and Sustainability) of EdUHK, noted that Professor Harilela’s appointment reflects the University’s core mission to promote knowledge transfer and enhance social well-being. He noted that Professor Harilela’s pioneering work in renewable energy investment and green finance aligns closely with EdUHK’s strategic focus on sustainability. He also expressed gratitude for the support from various sectors and industry partners, which enables EdUHK to play an active role in advancing sustainable development locally and globally.
The lecture was moderated by Naubahar Sharif, Head of the Department of Social Sciences and Policy Studies and Professor of Public Policy. Professor Harilela highlighted the critical role of family businesses in enhancing Hong Kong’s economic resilience, driving innovation, and fulfilling social responsibilities. He pointed out that a robust family governance framework both strengthens the foundation for succession and empowers businesses to seize new opportunities and achieve sustainable growth.
In recent years, the Hong Kong SAR Government has promoted the development of family office services, aiming to reinforce the city’s position as a global hub for asset and wealth management. Professor Harilela highlighted the strategic significance of family offices within Hong Kong’s financial ecosystem, noting their importance in attracting international capital and talent. He also shared how family enterprises can preserve tradition while embracing change to foster sustainable social and economic development.
During the interactive session, students from EdUHK’s Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in Personal Finance and Master of Arts in Personal Finance Education and other programmes of EdUHK actively engaged with Professor Harilela. They discussed the future of family offices in Hong Kong and explored career pathways in the wealth management profession. The vibrant atmosphere reflected the strong interest in the topic and the value of direct dialogue with industry leaders.
This event helped deepen collaboration between EdUHK and the business community and underscored the University’s commitment to integrating academic and industry expertise, and cultivating future leaders in family governance and wealth management.
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EdUHK Hosts ‘The Family Blueprint: Sustaining Legacy, Advancing Hong Kong’ Lecture Featuring Professor Mahesh Harilela Sharing Insights on Tradition and Innovation
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