Tala- Naogantala
Hi guys, my name is Tala. I am a Chinese Mongolian born and raised in Beijing, China. I have graduated with a Bachelor degree of Economics and a minor of Psychology from University of California, Davis. I focused on the area of International Economics during my undergraduate study. I was deeply interested in the Development Economics and Econometrics courses because it allowed me to apply the theories into practice through rigorous research and data analysis. After graduation, I joined JD.com, INC, China’s largest online retailer, and worked as an industrial goods supplier manager for 2 years. As I work closely with industrial goods suppliers and key account customers in the Manufacture, Food, and Resource sector at work, my interest in studying the field of Food and Resource sector has grown. I wish to expand my knowledge on Agribusiness and Environmental Economics while strengthening my Quantitative/Data Analysis skills through the MFRE program. Following the MFRE program, I aspire to work as a consultant or data analyst in the food and resource industry
Bello – Bello Muhammad
I pursued a bachelor’s degree in Agricultural Economics to contribute to rural economies. The MFRE program is a perfect fit for me, offering a platform to learn from diverse professionals and address rural community challenges. I aim to explore evidence-based policymaking to reduce poverty and food insecurity. As a research assistant at the University of Ilorin, I evaluated development schemes for smallholder farmers and provided policy recommendations. After MFRE, I plan to join a development agency as a Junior Economist to support research and policies addressing poverty, hunger, and rural transformation.
Sissi- Cai Chenxi
Hello! I am Sissi, a former BComm graduate from the Sauder School of Business at UBC. Through my work in the risk management department of a top 100 global multinational company, I developed my risk awareness and business thinking. When contemplating future career directions, I believe the food resources industry holds more potential for opportunities. Especially in the global context, the Fast- Moving Consumer Goods (FMCG) industry has consistently been one of the most dynamic and robust sectors in the consumer goods market. MFRE courses in data analytics in food have captured my interest. In the current era, where industries are undergoing digital transformation, the industry places higher demands on professionals in terms of data analysis. I believe that with the specialized knowledge gained through the MFRE program and the skills I’ve cultivated in my past roles, I will be able to offer a fresh perspective and innovative approaches in my future career endeavors.
Vicky- Cai Weiqi
My name is Weiqi Cai. I majored in Economics and Statistics at UBC, which gave me a solidfoundation in global economic systems and data analytics. My path academically startedwith an obsession with economics and econometrics. One of my proudest achievementswas analyzing stock market data using econometric methods and R to study COVID-19’simpact on the luxury market.
Working for a Chinese company as a data analyst during the past year, I have handleddatabase systems and done business analysis. This position has greatly expanded mypractical experience and confirmed my passion for utilizing statistics to support informedconclusions and decisions. My motivation for the MFRE program is driven by a passion foraddressing sustainability issues in the agri-food industry. I aim to evaluate sustainablepackaging designs and propose practical business strategies, particularly for organizationslike the Canadian Food Inspection Agency.
Chang- Che Chang
My name is Chang. I was born and raised in Nanjing, China. I moved to Vancouver ten years ago and just graduated from my bachelor degree in food and resource economics at the University of British Columbia. I have joined a policy-oriented global seminar session in Indonesia and worked as a corporate finance intern in the commercial banking industry. Through relevant courses and those experiences, I became increasingly interested in policy analysis and agribusiness management during my undergraduate degree, which is part of the reason why I chose the MFRE program. By joining the MFRE, I wish to further develop my skillset in big data analytics, as those skills are very powerful in solving many of the more challenging problems in my interest fields. After MFRE, I wish to launch my career in business consulting firms or government agencies, where I can use my knowledge not only to advance economic efficiency but also to promote environmental sustainability.
Tim- Connell Timothy
I have been working in the produce industry for 5+ years after completing an undergraduate degree from Queen in History and Economics. My produce career started by picking cherries on a working-holiday in New Zealand. I later joined the procurement team at a produce foodservice and wholesale distributor in Toronto. Most recently, I have worked on the produce strategic sourcing team at HelloFresh Canada focusing on quality improvement projects. I am excited to join the MFRE program to continue my learning and development in the produce (and now broader food and resource) industry while developing new skills and exposure to the policy and more technical analytic aspects of the field. After the program, I hope to continue my career in food businesses or in agricultural policy, and to tackle everincreasing questions on how we eat, how we grow and access food, and how we do it all sustainably. I have spent the majority of my life in Toronto. I am a very active and outdoorsy person, so I am excited to explore Vancouver and the West Coast!
Brian – Cui Tingru
I hold a Bachelor’s degree from UBC Sauder School of Business with a specialization in Finance. My academic journey provided a solid foundation in financial principles and analytical skills. Professionally, I have experience as a Data Analyst Intern at a startup in Toronto, where I learned my Python data analysis and Excel skills. This role ignited my passion for data analytics and its transformative potential. Motivated by a desire to specialize in the intersection of data analysis, food, and resources, I joined the MFRE program to gain expertise in this niche field. My interests include badminton and basketball, which help me stay active and balanced. Post-MFRE, I aspire to become a data analyst specializing in food and resources, leveraging my analytical skills to drive sustainable solutions in the industry.
Jeff – Dong Anjie
Hi, I am Jeff Dong. I am thrilled to join the MFRE family! Prior to coming to UBC, I completed my bachelor’s degree in Hospitality and Tourism Management at New York University and my Master of Public Administration at Columbia University. It was through these academic journeys that I learned the importance of sustainable development and how much of an impact food and resources can make on a nation’s economic well-being. For internship/work experience, I have interned at private equity and venture capital firms as an analyst where I was analyzing financial performance of major agri-food businesses in China and helping with investment decisions. In addition, I also conducted research on China’s raw materials industry and developed a deeper understanding of the supply chain of natural resources. I believe these experiences further ignited my passion in the food and resources industry. With the MFRE Program, I am excited to sharpen my skills in quantitative research and data analytics. I hope to combine tech-related skills with my background to become well-rounded in business and finance. For my future career, I am motivated to do economics research or finance with stronger skills in quant analysis and data analytics.
Ella – Gao Ziqin
Hello, this is Ella. I graduated from the University of British Columbia with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Economics, where I developed a keen interest in global environmental and resource issues. I have a strong passion for sustainability and environmental stewardship. My undergraduate studies and research projects on the economics of sustainability have fuelled my desire to create efficient and equitable solutions to resource challenges. I am excited about the MFRE program as it offers an excellent opportunity to enhance my quantitative skills and apply them to real- world problems.
Ghazali Abdulwasiu
My name is Abdulwasiu Alabi Ghazali, a Nigerian and graduate of Agricultural and Resource Economics from the Federal University of Technology, Akure (FUTA). I am a strong advocate of the SDGs with active experience as a global volunteer for food and environment with the Youth in Landscapes Initiative(YIL) Bonn, Germany. My profound passion for food, resource and economics started during my undergraduate studies, I developed an exceptional interest in Macroeconomics, Microeconomics, and Econometrics. I was captivated by the complexity and abstraction of theories and models, and the applicaVon of these theories in explaining on-field agriculture and the entire agricultural value chain processes. In doing research work, I am interested in the economics of the food value chain, international trade and the smallholders’ adoption of sustainable practices and agri-tech solutions. And for the future, I am hoping to advance on my knowledge of policy, economic theories and research to pursue a role in government ministry or research institute to impact the agri-food sector
Tammy – Guan Tammy
Hi! My name is Tammy and I recently completed my bachelor‚ degree in Food, Nutrition and Health at UBC. After taking economics as an elective, I became interested in its applications within the food sector which led me to pursue FRE electives. My main interests lie in data analytics, agribusiness, and food security, hence why I chose the MFRE program. It offers a strong variety of quantitative courses that will enable me to learn more data analysis tools and techniques, as well as help me acquire a specialized understanding of the food sector. Following the MFRE program, I plan to pursue a career in the CPG industry as an analyst or consultant to help businesses implement more sustainable solutions.
Pail – Hung Pui Kit
This is Pail. I hold a Bachelor’s degree in Economics from the University of Hong Kong, where I developed a strong interest in the application of microeconomics. With hands-on experience in project management of digital practice implementation during my internships and an emphasis on local production and sustainable living during my semester exchange in Montreal, I am motivated to implement sustainable practices in the agri-food industry through technological innovation. By joining the MFRE program, I aim to develop supportive economic and policy frameworks to guide agribusinesses towards sustainable and respectful operations. Afterwards, I aspire to enter the consultancy field, leveraging data-driven decision-making to increase local food production and transition to policy advising in the public sector.
Rui – Jiang Rui
Rui Jiang graduated from UBC with a Bachelor of Arts in Economics, developing analytical skills through courses like Intermediate Macroeconomic Analysis and Empirical Research Methods in Economics. Passionate about sustainable development, Rui led a project on sustainable solutions in Brazil, demonstrating leadership and research abilities. Internship experiences at the Bank of China and a software development company provided valuable insights into finance and business development. Rui’s interests include quantitative analysis, environmental economics, and agricultural business. Rui aims to pursue a career in data or financial analysis, contributing to sustainable development and economic prosperity
May – Jiao Wuyue
Enrolled as an undergraduate in the Vancouver School of Economics at UBC with a strong background of quantitative skills, I was immediately drawn to the MFRE program. During the course of my degree, I immersed myself in a broad spectrum of economics concepts and quantitative methods. I have also developed a keen interest in natural resources and economics through courses I took at UBC. Beyond some basic knowledge of economics gained from classes, one of my recent summer intern was in an asset management company. I gained three months of work experience, and honed skills while performing duties such as examining and analyzing financial and investment information, assisting Investment Advisors with processing and confirming client transactions. It also equipped me with quantitative and data analysis skills, entrepreneurial spirits and enabled me to apply theoretical knowledge in practical work settings. This intern experience also made me aware of the important role that basic economics and business knowledge can play in the Food and Resource sectors, and I believe a person with specialized understandings of Economics, Policy and Business aspects within the Agriculture and Natural Resources sectors have enormous potentials in future job market.
Haiyu Li
Haoyu Li is a current student at the University of British Columbia. He received his BA in Mathematics from the University of British Columbia. During my undergraduate degree, I became interested in the environmental sector in Economics by taking course like Econ374, which illustrates environmental and resource problems. I am taking MFRE to strengthen my skills in quantitative tolls such as SQL and dive into policy analysis in environmental sectors.
Yingyi – Liang Yingyi
I obtained my M.A. in Economics at the University of British Columbia. I was an economics PhD student at VSE UBC and my research includes institutions and conflict in European history and microfinance in colonial Southeast Asia. I join the MFRE program for its comprehensive learning environment that emphasizes professional skills and career opportunities. I hope to apply my mathematical training and economic modelling skills to environmental and agri-business policymaking to address the current demographic, climate, and political challenges.
Joe – Lyu Chengfeng
Hi, this is Chengfeng Lyu. I am from Wuhan, China. I graduated from Zhongnan University of Economics and Law with bachelor degree in economics and finance. I also earned bachelor’s degree in economics from University of Waterloo. I am so glad to be a part of the MFRE family and I look forward to my new experience here. I used to work as an intern in Shenwan Hongyuan Securities Co.,Ltd. I have learnt a lot in this internship, not only the practical application of professional knowledge, but also how to deal with customers (which I think is the most important part). The reason I choose this program is that I think MFRE provides a good opportunity for hands-on practice. I look forward to learning how to solve real problems here, especially in agriculture and resources. I think MFRE will provide a very good training programme and I am sure that I will gain the ability to solve practical problems after my studies.
Zhiyao – Ma Zhiyao
I am Zhiyao Ma, an aspiring economist compleVng my Bachelor of Arts in Economics at The University of British Columbia, where I’ve maintained a CGPA of 80.3/100 and was honoured with the Outstanding International Student Award. My academic journey has been enriched by significant research projects, including analyzing the effects of the CPTPP on Canada trade balance and exploring the impact of interest rates on unemployment during the pandemic. My professional path includes internships in wealth management at Pingan Bank and business advisory at Price Waterhouse Coopers, enhancing my analytical and strategic capabilities. Driven by a keen interest in agricultural economics and sustainable development, I am excited to pursue the Master of Food and Resource Economics (MFRE) program. I aim to use this advanced education to contribute effectively to global food security and economic sustainability initiatives. Looking ahead, I plan to engage in policy analysis or consultancy, focusing on the criVcal nexus of economics, resource management, and sustainability.
Carrie – Men Xueting
I completed my undergraduate degree in Economics at UBC. My diverse internships span banking, local food delivery market analysis, and accounting roles across various companies. A pivotal economics course ignited my passion for food and resource economics, leading me to the MFRE program. Beyond academics, I thrive on snowboarding, pampering my cats and dogs, indulging in long naps, and embracing the art of daydreaming. As an INFJ, I blend introspection with a drive for meaningful impact. Post-MFRE, I aspire to address regional disparities in wealth and access, leveraging my skills to create more equitable and sustainable food systems, ultimately making the world a fairer place‚ one thoughtful innovation at a time..
Josephine Nabwami
I am Josephine Nabwami from Uganda, with a Bachelor’s degree in Commerce from Cairo University, majoring in Insurance, Statistics, and Risk Management. My experience as a business analyst and claims adjuster in Cairo has equipped me with skills in data analysis and risk management. Motivated by the challenges in Uganda’s agricultural sector, I am pursuing a Master’s in Food and Resource Economics at the University of British Columbia. I aim to develop sustainable agricultural practices and risk management strategies to enhance resilience and food security in Uganda, ultimately working with government bodies to implement effective policies.
Sinai – Nie Pengyu
Hey there. My name is Sinai, and I’m thrilled to join the MFRE program at the University of British Columbia in Vancouver. I have a deep interest in the relationship between food, the environment, and natural resources. I believe this is the field I will deeply engage in, shaping my future career path. After taking some FRE and environmental economics courses, I have realized the importance of developing agriculture and managing natural resources within the global economic system. I am excited to participate in diverse lessons alongside classmates from different countries and linguistic backgrounds. This diversity will greatly enhance our ability to analyze questions from various perspectives and consider different hypothetical scenarios. My career goal is to become a government policy maker and analyst, contributing to the sustainable development of my country and the world. It’s wonderful to meet all of you here. Thank you.
Seth Oduro
Hello, I am Seth Oduro, an international student from Ghana. I am delighted to be part of the UBC community as an MFRE student. I graduated with a bachelor’s degree in economics from Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology. After graduating, I worked as a teaching and research assistant for the Department of Economics. I co-authored a publication on Greening the Future: Unveiling the Link between Industrial Structure Upgrades and Pollution Emissions in Sub-Saharan Africa.” I want to deepen my knowledge of environmental challenges and help propose solutions to food and resource problems. I am interested in environmental economics and policy analysis. After graduating from MFRE, my professional career is to equip people with the necessary skills and expertise to help solve food security problems and climate change in developing countries.
Femi – Ojo Oluwafemi
Hello! My name is Femi, and I am from EkiV State, Nigeria. I currently work as a PorUolio Analyst in the investment division at AXA Nigeria. I hold a bachelor’s degree in economics from Ahmadu Bello University, where my honours thesis focused on the economic implications of climate change on Nigeria’s agricultural output. This study highlighted the sensitivity of Nigeria’s agriculture to climate shocks and the lack of mitigating strategies. My passion for environmental sustainability led me to co-found the Pale Blue Dot Initiative, a volunteer not-for-profit organization aimed at promoting climate acVon among young people in Nigeria. Joining the MFRE program aligns with my goals to contribute effectively to policymaking in the food and agriculture sector.
Yichun Pan
Hi, I’m Yichun. I’m from Chengdu, Sichuan, China, and I have just completed four years of undergraduate study in International Economics at UBC. Throughout my past academic journey, I have developed a strong foundation in data analysis, econometric modeling, and empirical research by participating in several scientific research projects within the fields of labor and development economics. My research interests are situated at the nexus of economics and quantitative analysis. I am enthusiastic about engaging with researchers and professionals to facilitate meaningful dialogue and collaboration aimed at enhancing our comprehension of the global agricultural and environmental economic landscape. This eagerness is what drives my anticipation of joining the MFRE program. I am confident that this opportunity will equip me with the necessary tools to work in the food and resource sectors in the future.
Harper – Qi Tianyu
I graduated with a bachelor’s degree in Food Nutrition and Health from the UBC. My interest in the Master of Food and Resource Economics (MFRE) program began during an FRE course I took as an undergraduate. Over the years, I have gained valuable experience through internships at PwC, Aon, and a company focused on innovative agricultural technology. These experiences have provided me with a solid foundation in both the business and technical aspects of food and resource management. I am particularly interested in business analysis and its applications in sustainable agricultural practices and food security. After completing the MFRE program, I aspire to contribute to the development of innovative solutions that address global food challenges.
Wendy – Sun Bingchen
Hi! My name is Bingchen Sun. You can also call me Wendy. I recently graduated from UBC majoring in Economics. I am particularly interested in food market analysis, especially consumer preferences on food choice, and also the market share and strategies of the major companies including manufacturers, distributors, and retailers in the food industry. During my undergraduate studies, I found that quantitative skills and data analysis are significant for economic research. MFRE provides me opportunities to strengthen my statistical skills and deepen my expertise in the field of food market, agribusiness management and resource governance. After finishing my master degree, I hope to be employed as a Research Analyst in the government sector or NGO.
Tonia – Tai Pingtongyi
My name is Tonia and I recently completed my bachelor’s degree in Food, Nutrition, and Health at UBC. Motivated by the pressing need to address global food security concerns and the impact of climate change on food systems, I am drawn to MFRE’s interdisciplinary approach around the intersection of economics, policy, and business within the food and natural resource sector. MFRE gives me the opportunity to develop business competencies and economic mindsets to analyze real-world food and environmental issues using applied economics and quantitative skills. Upon graduation, I aspire to pursue an impactful career in sustainability consulting to support the development of resilient and equitable food systems.
Haitong Wang
This is Haitong Wang, from Beijing China. I obtained dual-bachelor degrees in Finance and Statistics from Peking University in 2005. Since graduation, I had over 12 years of experience with the financial industry, working in Principal Investment Area at Goldman Sachs, and in Investment Banking Division at Morgan Stanley, in office locations of both Beijing and Hong Kong. Attracted by technology innovations, I joined a top AI company in China as Chief Financial Officer in 2018. The company specializes in offering AI + IoT total solutions to enterprise customers. After working nearly 20 years with multinational financial institutions and as well as innovative tech startups, I am thrilled to join MFRE program with UBC and embrace Haitong campus life again.
Junyu Wang
Hi, my name is Junyu Wang. I come from south China and I just finished my Bachelor’s degree at UBC (Major in Mathematics and Minor in Economics). During my undergraduate study at UBC, I got involved in Food and Environmental sectors. For the food aspect, when I took PTA in the China International Finance Co., I finished two projects about the Chinese white wine. In the first project, I formulated a company research report for Luzhou Laojiao, a Chinese liquor brand with 400 years of brewing, I make research about the production and business scale, demand and supply, market competition about this Medium and high-end alcohol and provide advice on the development of Luzhou Laojiao in Chinese market. In the second project, I predicted Guizhou Maotai‚ net profit, P/E ratio, asset-liability ratio, and other indicators in the next three years using ratio analysis, linear regression analysis, P/E valuation model, DCF model, etc., and I finished the income statement, cash flow statement as well as the balance sheet of this Chinese white wine company on Excel with the use of SAS and Python. For the environmental aspect, I used to take natural resources courses and high-level land economics and environment economics courses during my third and fourth year at UBC and I got Grade A+ in some of these courses. I am very interested in the curriculum provision and research direction of the MFRE program, especially the econometric modeling and business analysis courses. The MFRE program covers economics and policy in the spheres of food, agriculture, natural resources, and the environment, which aligns with my future studies plan and career goal. About my hobbies, I like soccer and tourism.It’s a pleasure to meet you all and I hope we can become good friends!
Ethan Westbury
Hi everyone! My name is Ethan. I am from Vancouver but completed my bachelor degree at Queen University, where I studied environmental science and economics. During my undergraduate studies, my learning focused on our food system and its inherent connection to climate change and the environment. I am particularly interested in the impact of climate change on agricultural commodity prices and enhancing economic discourse in food and environmental policy. I knew the MFRE program was a perfect fit for me as it combines my interests in food systems, environmental policy and economics. While I have experience working as a data analyst, the program will further hone my quantitative skills and equip me with the tools to develop economic solutions for problems in the food and environmental sectors. Following the MFRE program, I plan to pursue a career in environmental or agricultural policy and help contribute to the development of a sustainable and resilient food system.
Rachel – Xu Xiaodie
Growing up on the enchanting island of Saipan, where nature’s rhythms shape everyday life, I developed a deep curiosity about the economic impacts of environmental changes. This curiosity led me to pursue a Bachelor of Arts in Economics at UC Berkeley, where I delved into statistical modelling and economic analysis, particularly focusing on the effects of typhoons on local agrifood systems. My stint as a Software Engineer at Microsoft further honed my analytical skills, preparing me for the complexities of economic challenges. Joining the MFRE program at UBC feels like a natural progression, as it aligns perfectly with my goal of merging technology and economics to foster sustainable development. I’m excited to dive into courses like Climate Change Economics and Policy to explore innovative solutions for food security and economic resilience. Ultimately, I aspire to lead the charge in sustainable resource management, and I believe the MFRE program will empower me to turn this vision into reality.
Adeline – Yang Wuyi
Hi everyone! I recently graduated from UBC with a major in Economics. During my studies, I interned in diverse fields including banking, insurance, securities, and food industries. My internship in the food sector particularly sparked my interest in the MFRE program. Moreover, my graduation thesis focused on researching the causal effect between obesity and mental illness and I believe that food is a significant factor in obesity, thus I hope to use the knowledge gained from MFRE to provide new perspectives for my research. After graduation, I aim to become a professional food investment analyst, driving sustainable development and innovation in the food industry. I look forward to deepening my expertise, enhancing my analysis and market research skills, and then helping food companies manage risks and contribute to the industry‚ and sustainable development.
Steven – Yu Qiu Tong
Hello everyone, my name is Yu Qiu Tong, I am from China and I did my high school in Mauritius. I did my undergraduate in UBC itself with faculty of Art in Economics. I worked for bank before as intern lobby manager, also worked for community volunteer etc. I decided to go for MFRE firstly because MFRE has this Co-op final project that I can get some actual experience, and I believe it’s very useful for someone like me who is planning to get into the job market. Another reason is that MFRE program catches my eye. I always wanted to make some impact to people no matter how small it’s, help one person out of starvation is better than none. Also, I think resources management will be important in the era of AI. Hence, I am particularly interested in econometrics and statistics, also natural resources management. I will see if I can land in one of those fields after MFRE.
Becky – Zhu Caiying
Hello everyone! I’m Becky, and I recently graduated from the University of British Columbia with a bachelor degree in Food and Resource Economics. Throughout my undergraduate studies, I learned about various food system issues, igniting my passion for finding innovative solutions that blend food security and economic prosperity. Seeking to deepen my understanding and skills, I was drawn to the MFRE program to enhance my proficiency in economic tools, agricultural commodity markets, and environmental and trade policy in this sector. After MFRE, I hope to contribute to the Government of Canada or NGOs, where I can help to shape a more sustainable food and resource economy.
Yan – Zhu Yanyan
I graduated from the University of British Columbia with a major in Economics. One of my most impactful undergraduate research projects examined China’s Recycling Economy Law, which organizes waste management across over 60 cities. This research deepened my interest in sustainable practices and inspired me to further explore land use and food resource management. From my undergraduate studies, I learned that society continually faces challenges related to environmental protection and land use. I am particularly interested in exploring how to maximize agricultural benefits with minimal land resources. I believe that the Master of Food Resources in Economics program presents a valuable opportunity for me to analyze real-world environmental cases and develop practical solutions.