Congratulations, graduates! Successful launch of the SoFTA Alumni Group

On 30 July 2024, amidst the vibrant atmosphere of graduation season, Xi’an Jiaotong-Liverpool University (XJTLU) celebrated the official launch of the School of Film and TV Arts (SoFTA) Alumni Group. Guided by the Alumni Office, the group was initiated by SoFTA alumni as a non-profit organization aimed at fostering connections and providing services to alumni while promoting collaboration and advancing the film and TV arts industry. Alumni worldwide attended the event in person or sent their best wishes through video messages. With industry mentors as witnesses, the alumni group was officially inaugurated, followed by the appointment ceremony of its leadership team. Looking ahead, the alumni group and the School anticipate a bright future together, as SoFTA alumni continue to create remarkable achievements in the film and TV arts industry.

SoFTA extends its heartfelt congratulations to the graduates of 2024: May your graduation be joyful, and your future filled with success and opportunity as you excel in your chosen fields!

Opening Ceremony and Guest Speeches

During the launch ceremony, three industry mentors were invited to deliver speeches. First, Deyi Yao, Deputy General Manager and Chief Technical Engineer at Shanghai Film Studio Co., Ltd., shared his insights into the current state of the film industry. He remarked, “Despite challenges in box office performance, as long as we maintain a passion for the industry and a keen awareness of new technologies, we can continue to produce outstanding works.”

“The alumni group has established a smooth and efficient communication platform, particularly in terms of providing industry resources and project support, which is crucial for the growth of young professionals.”

Next, Shuhua Mao, Chair of Suzhou Sky City Books Co., Ltd., emphasized the importance of passion: “No matter how different future careers may be from your current field, a love for what you do is the driving force that will propel your career forward.”

“The establishment of the alumni group is a significant milestone. This platform allows us to exchange ideas, share experiences, and complement each other’s strengths. Not only can we shine in our respective industries, but through strong collaboration, we can introduce more excellent creative works to society.”

Finally, Haisu Ma, Art Director of Suzhou Snail Digital Technology Co., Ltd., shared his experiences in the gaming industry: “In your creations, you must balance market demands with creativity while maintaining a passion for the industry and a commitment to continuous learning.”

“Only by courageously embracing change can we remain at the forefront of the industry. I believe establishing the alumni group will provide more opportunities for development, communication, and collaboration.”

Outstanding Alumni and the Dean’s Address

Following the speeches from the industry mentors, 2023 graduate and Creative Director at Shanghai Dream Creation Media Co., Ltd., Ting Ye, representing the outstanding alumni (entrepreneurs), shared his thoughts on the importance of “connections”: “Connections are not only the bonds between individuals but also the bridge between humanity and technology, history and the future. As alumni of this school, each of us plays a crucial role in these connections.”

“I believe that everyone here has a unique story and experience, which will become the invaluable wealth of the alumni group. Let’s move forward together, continue exploring the endless possibilities of the film and TV arts, and write our glorious chapter.”

Professor Li-Chuan Evelyn Mai, Dean of SoFTA and Associate Dean of the Academy of Film and Creative Technology, then gave a heartfelt speech. She reflected on the School’s development since its founding and expressed her admiration for alumni’s outstanding achievements in their respective fields. She encouraged the graduates to carry forward their passion for art and creativity while extending her sincere hopes and blessings for their next chapter in life.

“The establishment of the alumni group is of great importance, as it will help us support, learn from, and assist one another in the future. Our alumni group will always be a big family.”

The ceremony also featured video messages from outstanding alumni worldwide, sending their blessings and expressing their care and anticipation for the group’s future. Attendees were then invited to watch congratulatory videos from more than 20 alumni who are pursuing advanced studies or careers across the globe, showcasing the unchanging bond between alumni despite the distances.

Inauguration and Appointment Ceremony

After the warm messages and greetings from alumni, the official inauguration of the SoFTA Alumni Group took place. Professor Li-Chuan Evelyn Mai, alongside Kun Wang, Deputy Director of XJTLU’s Career Development and Alumni Affairs Office, and distinguished alumni representatives Yilin Li and Yimin Lin, jointly announced the formal establishment of the SoFTA Alumni Group.

In her speech, Kun Wang expressed her hopes for the future of the alumni group. She noted, “Every graduate’s fondness for their alma mater stems not only from their degree but from the care and guidance they received at the School.” She emphasized that the founding of the alumni group reflects gratitude to the School and a commitment to the future, urging alumni to continue pursuing their dreams and achieving even greater success on this platform.

The leadership appointment ceremony then took place smoothly. Yilin Li was appointed President of the SoFTA Alumni Group, Yimin Lin was appointed Secretary-General, and Meitong Liu was appointed Board Member. Kun Wang presented appointment certificates to the newly appointed leadership team.

(From left to right: Yimin Lin, Yilin Li, Kun Wang, Meitong Liu)

In her speech, newly appointed President Yilin Li expressed her vision for the alumni group, highlighting plans to foster alumni connections and collaboration through regular events, seminars, and networking opportunities. She also stressed the importance of maintaining close ties with the School, working together to support its development and provide more opportunities for future students.

“I hope our alumni group can become a home for every alumnus. No matter where we are, we can always feel the warmth and care of our alma mater. Let’s stand side by side and create an even more brilliant future together!”

By Yaxin Liu

Translated and edited by Wenzhen Li

Photos courtesy of SoFTA Technical Team