Vivien Zhang (Global Online MBA 2022) knew that Imperial College Business School would equip her with the tools and mindset needed to get her entrepreneurial ambitions off the ground.
Today Vivien runs her own tech company, Solaire, providing Web3 commerce solutions for the retail industry.
Whilst studying at the College Vivien took advantage of the resources available at Imperial Enterprise Lab and networks within the school.
What did you learn during your time at Imperial, in class or out?
Having spent my entire career in the retail and luxury goods industry, I chose to pursue my MBA at Imperial specifically to fill my knowledge gap beyond luxury product management and retail.
With the goal of starting my own company in mind, I made sure to equip myself with business management and leadership skills and build a network within the startup ecosystem whilst at the school.
Tell us about your studies at Imperial
I structured my studies to support my two main priorities - building a startup and growing a company.
The finance, accounting and innovation classes in the core curriculum were a great source of knowledge for effectively managing and growing a company. The electives I did such as design thinking and entrepreneurial finance were also effective tools in helping to shape a startup. See the current Global Online MBA module offering here.
In addition, I was actively engaged with the Imperial Enterprise Lab so was able to access the excellent startup resources offered by the school.
What is your fondest memory of your time here?
Due to COVID-19, our cohort completed the majority of the program remotely. My fondest memory was the time we all spent together, in person, both in class and outside of class. The relationships we built with each other will last well beyond the programme.
What is your favourite place at Imperial and why?
I loved the Business School Cafe, especially when they offered freshly squeezed juice, which was my go-to whenever I needed a quick energy boost between classes!
Tell us a bit about the work you’re doing now.
I’m the founder of a tech startup named Solaire.
We are building the infrastructure for the future of commerce on blockchain. Our commerce protocol backs physical goods on blockchain and enables phygital transactions on-chain.
How has what you learnt at Imperial helped you in your career so far?
I experienced a shift in mindset after graduating from Imperial. Having completed and excelled in the programme, it was a big confidence boost to realise that I have not only what it takes to start a company, but that I am also fully equipped to manage and scale it!
What have been your career highlights and lowlights?
A pivotal point was when I quit my job to build a tech startup with no prior experience in tech. The first few months were the toughest, trying to build a team whilst getting the idea off the ground. It might have felt like a low point in the moment, but looking back, it sure will be a highlight of my entrepreneurial journey - a story of courage and tenacity.
What does a typical day look like for you now?
No two days are the same. As the founder of a startup, I constantly multitask and hustle. I am responsible for everything - from relationship building with investors, to product design and recruitment.
What are your plans for the future?
I’m committed to improving the world through technology. My focus now is to continue building and scaling Solaire to effectively improve the way we do commerce.
Further ahead, I’d like to stay in the space and perhaps build another tech company.
What would be your advice for current students?
Dream big. Imperial will equip you with what you need to pursue your dreams.
What makes you proud to be an Imperial alumnus?
The support and encouragement Imperial gives to its alumni.
Imperial alumni are fearless.
Do you have a favourite quote or saying?
That anything is possible!
What makes Vivien proud to be an Imperial alumnus?
"The support and encouragement Imperial gives to its alumni."