BCI Hosts Largest-Ever Event with James Mason CEO of Yorkshire Chamber of Commerce
Record-Breaking Attendance for James Mason on Trade, Talent and Opportunity in China Event
More than 200 attendees joined the Business Confucius Institute at the University of Leeds for a special conversation with James Mason, Chief Executive of the West and North Yorkshire Chamber of Commerce, making it the largest standalone event ever hosted by the Institute. Drawing on his recent participation in Yorkshire's largest-ever trade mission to China, James shared first-hand insights into international business, innovation and the growing opportunities for collaboration between Yorkshire and China.
The Business Confucius Institute (BCI) at the University of Leeds recently welcomed students, staff, business leaders and members of the public to Doing Business with China: Trade, Talent and Opportunity – A Conversation with James Mason, Chief Executive of the West and North Yorkshire Chamber of Commerce. The event explored the opportunities arising from Yorkshire's growing engagement with China, bringing together perspectives on international trade, entrepreneurship, careers and global collaboration.
A Warm Welcome with Chinese Culture
Guests were welcomed from 5.30pm with a selection of authentic Chinese refreshments and snacks provided by the Business Confucius Institute, creating opportunities for networking and conversation before the event began.
Adding to the atmosphere, attendees enjoyed a captivating performance on the traditional Chinese guzheng by University of Leeds PhD student Lijun Zhang. The performance offered guests a taste of Chinese musical culture and set the tone for an evening focused on international understanding, cultural exchange and dialogue.
A First-Hand Perspective from China
Reflecting on his recent visit, James shared his experiences travelling across China as part of the landmark trade mission, offering attendees a fascinating glimpse into the scale, pace and innovation he encountered.
Among the highlights of his visit were tours of the headquarters of BYD, one of the world's leading electric vehicle manufacturers. James spoke about experiencing some of China's most advanced automotive technologies firsthand, including driving what was described as the world's fastest production car and seeing vehicles capable of manoeuvring vertically to assist with parking in confined spaces.
These stories provided a vivid illustration of China's rapid technological development and sparked considerable interest among audience members.
Opportunities for Yorkshire Businesses
A key theme throughout the evening was the importance of international trade and the opportunities available to Yorkshire businesses through engagement with China.
Drawing on both the trade mission and his wider experience leading the Chamber of Commerce, James discussed how businesses can develop successful international partnerships and navigate overseas markets. He highlighted the continued importance of China as a destination for trade, investment and collaboration across a range of sectors.
The discussion gave attendees valuable insight into how Yorkshire businesses can position themselves within an increasingly global economy while building long-term international relationships.
Inspiring Entrepreneurial Thinking
One of the most memorable and engaging parts of the evening came during an interactive discussion with the audience.
James invited attendees to share their own business ideas and entrepreneurial ambitions, creating a lively exchange that encouraged participation from across the lecture theatre. Drawing on his experience as both an entrepreneur and business leader, he provided honest, practical feedback on a range of ideas, helping participants think through potential opportunities, challenges and next steps.
The session generated enthusiastic discussion and demonstrated the value of connecting experienced business leaders with aspiring entrepreneurs and future innovators.
Supporting Students and Future Graduates
The event also explored careers, employability and the skills needed to thrive in an international business environment.
James shared advice for students interested in global careers and highlighted free opportunities available through the West and North Yorkshire Chamber of Commerce that enable young people to build professional networks, develop key skills and engage with the business community.
His message reinforced the importance of adaptability, communication, cultural awareness and international outlooks in an increasingly interconnected world.
Conversations Continued Long After the Event
The enthusiasm generated by the discussion continued well beyond the formal end of the event.
Following the session, James remained for more than an hour speaking individually with students, entrepreneurs and members of the public. Attendees took the opportunity to seek advice on business ventures, career aspirations and professional challenges, with James generously sharing his experience and insights with everyone who approached him.
Reflecting on the event afterwards, James said:
"Thank you to everyone who attended the event. I hope what I shared was useful, and perhaps the hour of questions at the end suggested so! I'm proud that the West and North Yorkshire Chamber of Commerce is creating opportunities for businesses to begin their journey trading in or with China through our recent trade missions."
His willingness to continue the conversation long after the scheduled finish reflected both his commitment to supporting others and the high level of engagement generated throughout the evening.
Strengthening Links Between Yorkshire and China
The record-breaking attendance reflected growing interest in China-related business engagement across the University of Leeds and the wider Yorkshire region.
By bringing together students, academics, business leaders, entrepreneurs and members of the public, the event created valuable opportunities for dialogue, learning and collaboration. It also highlighted the important role universities can play in connecting education, industry and international partners.
The Business Confucius Institute would like to thank James Mason for sharing his experiences and expertise with the Leeds community. His reflections on Yorkshire's landmark trade mission demonstrated how international engagement can create opportunities for businesses, students and communities alike.
As part of its wider mission to promote Chinese language learning, cultural understanding, international collaboration and business engagement with China, the BCI will continue to create opportunities for meaningful exchange between Yorkshire and China through events, partnerships and educational activities.