SCE Virtual Exchange Centre kicks off the Global Virtual Exchange Masterclass

The Virtual Exchange Centre (VEC) successfully launched its Global Virtual Exchange Masterclass Series with the opening theme, “The Odyssey of Influencer Marketing,” in November. Proudly supported by the HKBU Century Club, this Masterclass was designed to encourage students to “think beyond the classroom, sharpen professional skills, and embrace new perspectives in today’s interconnected world.” The event attracted over 170 participants, including approximately 90 HKBU & SCE students and more than 80 online attendees from Malaysia, the Philippines, Ukraine, and Peru, all eager to explore the realities and complexities of influencer marketing.

The Masterclass began with a welcome address by Dr Marianna Tsang, Past President/Ex-officio Director and Patron of the HKBU Century Club, who highlighted the Club’s ongoing commitment to supporting initiatives that foster whole-person education and broaden global perspectives for students. Following her remarks, Dr Tsang, joined by two distinguished guests, Mr Hui Yin and Mr Harvey Man, Co-founder and Producer of the renowned Hong Kong YouTube channel Trial & Error（試當真）, for a simple ceremony marking the official opening of the Global Virtual Exchange Masterclass Series.

In the sharing session, Mr Hui Yin and Mr Harvey Man offered insightful perspectives on the rise of influencers and the growing importance of influencer marketing in today’s digital landscape, drawing from their experiences as content creators in Trial & Error. They emphasised that the heart of Trial & Error’s philosophy is a commitment to delivering meaningful messages without sacrificing humour or compromising authenticity for popularity. Their approach masterfully blends sincerity and wit, engaging audiences with laughter while sparkling thoughtful reflection. As Mr Hui remarked, “Success is not defined by numbers alone, but by the authenticity of the connections we build with viewers.”

After the sharing session, students collaborated with overseas online participants to explore cultural differences in influencer marketing and jointly design a mock influencer campaign for a selected product. This interactive exchange enabled students to develop innovative strategies and leverage social media tools to boost audience engagement.

"Today is a true reality check. Hearing Harvey and Hui Yin openly discuss both the challenges and fortunate opportunities associated with their channels made influencer marketing feel tangible and attainable. Their honest, unfiltered sharing did not sugar-coat the journey yet left all of us inspired and believing that we can succeed too," said one student who is also a loyal Trial & Error follower.

The Global Virtual Exchange Masterclass Series is proudly supported by the HKBU Century Club. With this backing, VEC will launch two additional Masterclasses focused on high-impact themes: Artificial Intelligence and Digitalisation, and Talent Development scheduled for January and February 2026 respectively. These Masterclasses aim to further enhance students’ academic growth and future-ready skills, while promoting intercultural dialogue and fostering intercultural competence within these fields.