Alex Zhang: shaping global bridges
From educational foundations to leading international trade and community engagement
Te Kunenga ki Pūrehuroa Massey University alumnus Alex Zhang’s story begins in the vibrant province of Guangdong, China, where he was born in Shaoguan and raised in Shenzhen. Experiencing his city’s transformation from a small village to a modern metropolis sparked Alex’s curiosity and eagerness to discover the world beyond.
He recalls how living near Hong Kong played a pivotal role in shaping this mindset. “Being so close to Hong Kong, I was always intrigued by what lay beyond Shenzhen. I saw how much Shenzhen had learned from Hong Kong, which sparked my curiosity about the wider world. When I finally had the chance to visit, my desire to explore grew even stronger, especially seeing how deeply Western cultures had influenced Hong Kong.”
“Additionally, my studies in English at a university in Guangzhou fueled my passion for understanding diverse cultures.” After graduation, Alex travelled to Europe and the US for business, which further deepened his interest in foreign cultures. This rich background laid a strong foundation for his desire to live abroad and connect with the global community.
Journey to New Zealand
In 2002, Alex moved to New Zealand on a resident visa. Upon arrival, he quickly found the need to integrate into this new community through education. He believed obtaining a local qualification would be invaluable, especially for navigating a foreign country.
Impressed by New Zealand’s renowned educational quality and welcoming multicultural environment, Alex began his Master of Business Administration (MBA) studies at Massey University. The skills gained from Massey later became crucial in Alex’s entrepreneurial ventures.
“My MBA experience at Massey significantly shaped the skills I utilise in my immigration and education agency and my community involvement. The programme provided a solid foundation in business management, strategic thinking, and cross-cultural communication, essential in navigating the industry’s complexities.”
The vibrant multiculturalism at Massey provided opportunities to engage with diverse groups and foster valuable connections within the community. Alex says, “The networking opportunities I gained during my studies have proven invaluable, allowing me to collaborate with fellow alumni and local organisations.”
From educator to entrepreneur
Before immigrating, Alex’s proficiency in English led to a prestigious role as a guest lecturer at the SEG Training Center in Shenzhen, where he became one of the earliest IELTS instructors trained by the British Council in China. Building on this background and the practical skills he acquired at Massey, Alex applied his expertise to founding Chance Immigration and Education, an agency recognised by Education New Zealand (ENZ) and regulated by the New Zealand Immigration Advisers Authority (IAA).
When asked about his motivation for focusing on immigration and education services, Alex explains, “This comes from my journey as an immigrant and the challenges I faced while navigating the education system in a foreign country. I wanted to create pathways for others to help them achieve their educational and immigration goals.”
Before founding Chance Immigration and Education, Alex held senior management roles in private training institutions, where he gained valuable experience working with international students. This background gave him the confidence and expertise to run an immigration and education agency successfully.
Over the years, his clients have mostly been international students from China. “By providing tailored services to these students, we support their aspirations and strengthen the ties between New Zealand and China. This work fosters mutual understanding and collaboration, ultimately benefiting both communities.”
Leadership beyond business
Besides being CEO at Chance Immigration and Education, Alex’s professional roles also extend to serving as the Executive President at the Canton Chamber of Commerce in New Zealand and the Chairman at the Federation of New Zealand Shenzhen Societies, as well as a Board Member of the Employers & Manufacturers Association (EMA) and Auckland Business Chamber Asian Advisory Board, an Executive Member of the New Zealand China Trade Association (NZCTA). Through these positions, Alex has been a vital force in promoting business and cultural exchanges that enhance bilateral relationships.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, Alex’s dedication to community service and cultural advocacy stood out, as he helped foster international cooperation to support local and global communities in need.
“In early 2020, my company created a WeChat group to inform affected New Zealand students about government responses. I also collaborated with local Chinese business associations to urgently procure supplies for a hospital in Heyuan. This cross-border aid led to reciprocal offers of medical assistance from the New Zealand Chinese community when the pandemic reached New Zealand,” Alex recalls.
In 2021, when Henan Province was hit by severe flooding, Chinese community organisations in New Zealand quickly raised over NZD 500,000 in funds and supplies. “The Canton Chamber of Commerce, in partnership with the Overseas Chinese Charity Foundation, allocated over NZD 400,000 in relief supplies, including hand sanitisers and food, to support affected individuals and rescue teams. These efforts exemplify the spirit of ‘one side in trouble, all sides support,’ highlighting the strong connection between the Chinese diaspora in New Zealand and their homeland.”
When the pandemic disrupted foreign trade, Alex’s team at the Canton Chamber of Commerce worked to reconnect Guangdong’s trade enterprises with New Zealand and the South Pacific. They established the first overseas Guangdong Product Exhibition Center, attracting 138 companies and promoting “Guangdong Made” products through exhibition space and an online platform.
Opening Ceremony of New Zealand Guangdong Products Exhibition Centre
Strengthening bilateral relations
As the pandemic eased, Alex’s team worked with the New Zealand China Trade Association to host the New Zealand-Guangdong Products Expo in 2022, featuring 150 enterprises, coinciding with the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between China and New Zealand.
Opening Ceremony of New Zealand Guangdong Products Expo
In 2023, Alex successfully spearheaded the inaugural New Zealand-China Products Expo, which attracted over 200 enterprises. The Chinese Ambassador to New Zealand Xiaolong Wang commended this event as a landmark success for national-level exhibitions, enhancing the government’s recognition and reinforcing the role of Alex’s organisation in promoting New Zealand-China collaboration.
Opening Ceremony of 2023 New Zealand China Products Expo
The following year, the Canton Chamber of Commerce successfully organised the 2024 New Zealand-China Products Expo, a three-day event showcasing products from China and New Zealand. This expo aimed to strengthen trade ties between the two countries, marking another significant achievement in Alex’s ongoing efforts to enhance trade and partnerships.
In 2023, Alex became the Chairman at the Federation of New Zealand Shenzhen Societies which serves as a platform to promote the exchanges between Shenzhen and New Zealand. On August 23, 2024, the Federation of New Zealand Shenzhen Societies celebrated its 7th Anniversary in Auckland.
7th Anniversary Gala Dinner of the Federation of New Zealand Shenzhen Societies
When asked what motivates him in business and community service, Alex emphasises his commitment to making a positive impact. “I believe that vibrant communities are the backbone of robust economies. By participating actively in both business and community initiatives, I can drive meaningful change and foster connections between cultures.”
Reflecting on the past and envisioning the future
Reflecting on his 20-year journey from studying abroad to committing to education service and eventually becoming a business and community leader, Alex has navigated significant transitions. He shares his invaluable lessons, offering advice to others on a similar path.
“I encourage you to seize every opportunity to learn and connect. Your diverse backgrounds and experiences are invaluable assets in our interconnected world. Stay curious, remain open to new ideas, and remember that you have the power to effect change.”
Looking towards the future, Alex sees significant growth opportunities in sustainable trade, particularly in agriculture and green energy technology, and collaborative educational efforts centred on research and innovation. Cultural exchanges through art and tourism are also areas he believes will deepen mutual understanding between New Zealand and China.