Jan KOT

Business adviser, Educator/Teacher, Entrepreneur, Explorer, Finance professional, World traveler, Writer/Editor

Born in Shanghai and educated in Hong Kong and the United States, Jan’s journey has long been a bridge between East and West. With over a decade in international journalism—reporting for Reuters, the South China Morning Post, and magazines like Tatler and Marie Claire—she has explored over 70 countries, seeking stories that connect people, cultures, and ideas. Jan later transitioned into a leadership role in cross-border investment, advising Chinese high-net-worth individuals on global asset planning, identity strategies, and international opportunities. Along the way, she discovered the transformative power of voice and storytelling—not just through writing, but through speaking. Once someone who feared public speaking, Jan overcame her stage fright to become a sought-after speech coach for corporate leaders and TEDx speakers. Since 2022, she has served as co-organizer and chief speaker coach for TEDxWukangRd, TEDxWukangRdSalon, and TEDxWukangRdWomen, where she helps individuals find clarity, courage, and pride in telling their own stories. Her expertise also extends to academia, having lectured at the University of Hong Kong’s Institute for China Business and the Hong Kong Civil Service College, and advised Chinese state-owned enterprises on building authentic and effective international narratives. Jan’s remarkable path—from a behind-the-scenes journalist to a voice-empowering coach—is a testament to her lifelong mission: to be a cultural bridge and storyteller who helps others be seen and heard.

I’m passionate about exploring the world and discovering new ideas that challenge the status quo. Growing up in communist China at the end of the Cultural Revolution, I was taught that success meant following a narrow path: get into a good university, land a stable corporate job, get married, and settle down. But I chose a different route. I became a journalist and spent years traveling the globe, meeting people from all walks of life. Through those journeys, I learned that happiness doesn’t come from fitting into someone else's mold—it’s an ability, a mindset, and deeply personal. Today, I coach others in public speaking, helping them find pride and power in telling their own stories—because no matter who you are or where you come from, your voice matters, and you have every right to be proud of it.

Happiness isn’t about following a fixed path—it’s a mindset we cultivate by embracing who we are and boldly telling our own story.

Since 2022, I’ve had the honor of serving as chief speaker coach for TEDxWukangRd, TEDxWukangRdSalon, and TEDxWukangRdWomen—a role that marks a profound personal transformation. Trained as a writer and journalist, I was used to staying behind the scenes, never imagining myself speaking in front of a crowd. For years, I struggled with the fear of public speaking, but over time, I found my voice and became a professional speech coach. Helping others prepare for the TED stage—witnessing their vulnerability, courage, and the power of their stories—has been deeply moving and meaningful. It’s not just about perfecting a speech; it’s about helping people stand proudly in their truth. Now, I feel called to bring this mission home—to Hong Kong—and help more voices be heard.