Hong Wei Liao is a Toronto-based wealth management leader and Chairman of the Botrich Family Wealth Heritage and Development Center, known for her work in global finance, family legacy planning, and philanthropy. In this interview, she shares insights on building meaningful wealth, leading with empathy, and why financial success should always be tied to positive social impact.
There’s a calm confidence that surrounds Hong Wei Liao, the kind that doesn’t come from status or titles, but from knowing exactly who you are and what you stand for. Born in Hunan, China, and now based in Toronto, Hong Wei has built a career — and a calling — around connection. As the Chairman of the Botrich Family Wealth Heritage and Development Center, she bridges worlds that rarely meet: global finance, family legacy, and philanthropy.
Her journey began with curiosity. Growing up in a culture that prized education and perseverance, she learned early that success was not only about personal growth, but also about lifting others. That belief shaped her path through advanced studies, international business, and eventually the creation of Botrich — a platform that helps high-net-worth families plan their financial futures while giving back to society.
Over the years, she’s received numerous honors, including the Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal, the Global Women of Excellence Award, and most recently, the King Charles III Coronation Medal — each recognizing her community service and impact. But when you meet her, she doesn’t lead with accolades. She talks about art, mentorship, and the joy of seeing young people discover confidence for the first time.
When she isn’t in a meeting or speaking at a summit, Hong Wei might be supporting youth theater groups like the Vancouver Mandarin Drama Society, mentoring through the Canada Youth Funding Association, or quietly organizing charity projects with UNICEF Canada. Her life reads like a well-balanced equation: purpose plus compassion equals possibility.
Can you tell us a bit about yourself and what you do?
I’m the Chairman of the Botrich Family Wealth Heritage and Development Center, where we focus on helping families plan for long-term prosperity while supporting global philanthropy. My background is in international finance and strategic wealth management, but my real passion is people. I believe wealth only matters when it creates positive change, so my work blends structure, ethics, and empathy, helping clients build both legacy and meaning.
How would you describe your personal or professional vibe in 3 words?
Empathetic, precise, and curious. Empathy keeps me grounded and reminds me that behind every number is a story. Precision comes from years in finance (I love details) and curiosity keeps me learning, traveling, and trying new things, from AI in wealth planning to supporting arts programs for youth.
What’s one fun fact about you most people don’t know?
I make latte art…badly, but enthusiastically! During the pandemic, I started learning how to make cappuccinos with little leaf patterns. It’s become my favorite ritual before starting the day, a small creative challenge that reminds me to slow down and enjoy small imperfections.
What’s your most-used social media app these days?
Definitely LinkedIn. I love connecting with professionals across different countries and seeing how industries evolve. It’s also where I share updates about community projects and meet young leaders who inspire me.
What was the first social media app you ever joined?
Facebook. Back when it was mostly for college students. It’s funny to think about how much has changed since then—both in tech and in healthcare.
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Are there any influencers or creators you never miss content from?
I really admire Melinda Gates for her thoughtful approach to philanthropy and women’s empowerment. I also follow Simon Sinek; his ideas about purpose and leadership always make me reflect. Their voices remind me that compassion and clarity are powerful tools in business.
Are there any must-follow accounts or pages for people in your industry?
The OECD and World Economic Forum pages are essential for anyone interested in global finance and policy. I also recommend following Harvard Business Review for leadership insights. For those interested in philanthropy, UNICEF’s Instagram is full of hopeful stories that keep perspective alive.
Do you listen to any podcasts related to your field or niche?
I often listen to Masters of Scale by Reid Hoffman. It’s fascinating to hear founders discuss how they scaled their ideas while staying true to their values. I also enjoy The Economist Podcasts for international updates that help me stay globally aware.
What’s the best advice you’ve heard from a podcast or interview?
One line from Masters of Scale stuck with me: “Success isn’t about avoiding failure; it’s about learning faster than everyone else.” It’s something I share with my mentees — progress comes from reflection, not perfection.
What’s a habit, hack, or tool you swear by for staying informed or inspired?
I dedicate thirty minutes each morning to reading, sometimes global economic reports, sometimes a biographical book. It keeps both my analytical and creative sides awake. I also use Notion to organize my ideas and quotes I find inspiring; it’s like a digital scrapbook for curiosity.
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