The vibrant city of Vancouver played host to the Web Summit this week, bringing together some of the brightest minds in technology from around the globe. Among the standout speakers was Yaofei Feng, the Chinese mainland-born co-founder of Fantuan, the largest Asian food delivery platform in North America.
From Software Engineer to Entrepreneur
Feng shared his inspiring journey from working as a software engineer at Amazon in Seattle to identifying a gap in the food delivery market. In 2014, he founded Fantuan in Vancouver, which has since revolutionized the way people access Asian cuisine across North America.
“I saw that there was a huge demand for authentic Asian food, but it was not readily accessible through existing platforms,” Feng explained during his talk. “I wanted to bridge that gap and connect people with the flavors they love.”
Technology Driving Sustainability
The summit also featured insights from Shivam Kishore, Digital Transformation Senior Advisor for the United Nations Environmental Program. Despite challenges facing the sustainability movement, Kishore expressed optimism about the role technology can play in driving positive change.
“Technology continues to be a powerful tool in addressing environmental issues,” he said. “Innovations in digital transformation are opening new pathways to a more sustainable future.”
Exploring Tech, Trade, and Tariffs
William Lazonick, professor emeritus of economics at the University of Massachusetts, provided a thought-provoking keynote on the intersections of technology, trade, and tariffs. He emphasized the need for thoughtful policies that support innovation while promoting fair competition.
“As we navigate the complexities of the global economy, it’s crucial to foster an environment where technological advancements benefit everyone,” Lazonick stated.
Inspiring the Next Generation
The Web Summit showcased the transformative power of technology and its potential to address global challenges. For young people in the Global South and beyond, the stories and insights shared serve as inspiration to drive innovation and make a positive impact in their communities.
