First Kickoff | DukeCEO

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First Kickoff!

On the evening of November 14, 2024, the Chinese Entrepreneurs Organization at Duke (DukeCEO) successfully hosted its inaugural event, attracting students from various academic disciplines and class years, professors, and industry professionals. Additionally, many students from neighboring universities joined the gathering.

The event fostered an atmosphere of innovation and collaboration, inspiring participants to explore limitless possibilities. Discussions spanned topics such as AI, fintech, educational innovation, and interdisciplinary dialogue, sparking new ideas and dynamic brainstorming sessions among attendees.

DukeCEO: A Community for Innovators and Entrepreneurs

The event commenced with DukeCEO Co-Presidents, Qixuan (Kyla) Zhang and Kaisen Yao, introducing the organization’s background, structure, mission, vision, values, and future plans.

DukeCEO is dedicated to providing a platform for innovators both on and off campus to connect and grow. It offers not only resources across cutting-edge fields such as AI, biotechnology, and healthcare but also opportunities to engage with world-class entrepreneurs, share startup journeys, and develop innovation skills.

At DukeCEO, entrepreneurship is a mindset, not just a career choice. The organization strives to bridge resources, create value, and grow together!

Special Guest Josh Cohen: Igniting the Entrepreneurial Spirit

One of the key highlights of this event was a special talk by Josh Cohen, Director of Startup Recruitment and an experienced entrepreneur. After earning his MBA from Duke University, Josh has played an active role in the growth of multiple startups, making him a distinguished Fuqua alumnus. From guiding young alumni in career planning to hosting the well-known podcast The Movement and authoring the entrepreneurial leadership framework Leadership Upside Down, his journey is a testament to innovation and exploration.

Panel Discussion: Finding Your "Innovation Tribe”

To conclude the event, participants joined small group discussions based on their interests, forming eight dynamic groups in the fields of AI, Robotics, Healthcare, Psychology, Education, Media, Finance, and Gaming. The discussions were lively and engaging, with participants quickly introducing themselves and diving into meaningful conversations.

From sharing their entrepreneurial visions to exchanging industry insights, attendees found a sense of belonging among like-minded peers. As the discussions wrapped up, some participants chose to stay longer, continuing their conversations, while others scheduled coffee chats to further explore their shared interests and aspirations.

Stay Tuned for Future Events!

As DukeCEO’s inaugural event, this kickoff session set an exciting tone for what’s to come. In the future, the organization will roll out pizza parties, guest lectures, Demo Days, and more, providing members with valuable opportunities for in-depth networking, learning, and growth.

If you're passionate about innovation and entrepreneurship, we welcome you to join DukeCEO—find your tribe, connect with like-minded innovators, and embark on your own entrepreneurial journey!