Every Challenge Is an Opportunity to Learn and Grow

In September 2001, Ashley Khoo was living in New York City. In the wake of the 9/11 attacks, she made a decision: To take advantage of every opportunity because life is unpredictable.

Khoo earned her CFA charter in 2002 and decided to relocate to Hong Kong, where she landed a promising position at Deutsche Bank. Although she missed her old life and her tight-knit group of friends in New York City, she soon discovered a group of like-minded professionals at her local CFA Society in Hong Kong. It wasn't long before Khoo was serving there as a volunteer.

"All of these experiences have not only enhanced my professional life but my personal life as well . . . . I've met so many great friends and colleagues by getting involved with CFA." The interpersonal relationships have been one of the most rewarding benefits of being part of a broader community of investment professionals, she says.

Khoo has volunteered for the CFA Institute Global Investment Research Challenge as a master of ceremonies, and served on the career and membership services committee of the Hong Kong Society of Financial Analysts (HKSFA). She is also an active member of the society's advocacy, public awareness, and career development committees. In fact, Khoo has played a leading role in the HKSFA since she arrived in Hong Kong, and has served as director of the society since 2007.

"The CFA Program has enriched my life more than I imagined and expected," Khoo says. Now, it's her turn to take advantage of another opportunity: giving back.

Khoo is committed to mentoring up-and-coming CFA candidates and charterholders in Hong Kong. "I help the members by improving their knowledge of the profession and offering career advice," she says. "It feels good to help the future of these new, young, intelligent students," she adds. "I think the younger CFA members in China have a great opportunity to shape the investment industry and make positive changes," she says.

Khoo knows firsthand what students are thinking and doing since she not only serves as a role model for students, but is part of the student community herself. Last year she enrolled in the Master's program in economics at the University of Hong Kong.

Khoo wasn't sure if she wanted to go back to school at this stage in her career, but she has found the experience to be the kind of golden opportunity — one of many — that she's glad she didn't pass up.

"Life is full of opportunity if you're willing to see every challenge as an opportunity to learn and grow," she says.

Update: Ashley Khoo, CFA, accepted the Deputy Division Head position at ABC International Holdings Limited in Hong Kong in March of 2010.

Interview conducted in December 2009.

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