OCS Conference Funding Submission

Event Photo:

NYU Alumni and Current Students

A Panel Discussion on The Future of Food: Food as Medicine and Addressing Food Accessibility

A Panel Discussion on Southeast Asia Impact Investing: Embarking with the Pioneers

Name: Pei Li Chua

Degree Program: MPA IN PUBLIC & NONPROFIT MANAGEMENT & POLICY

Specialization: PNP-Social Impact, Innovation & Investment

Conference Host Organization/Institution: Sorenson Impact Institute

Conference/Competition Name: SOCAP

Conference Term: Fall Conference Start Date: 2024-10-28 Conference End Date: 2024-10-30

What were your takeaways from this conference/case competition?
SOCAP deepened my understanding of impact investing by moving beyond the conceptual frameworks we often explore in the classroom. Being surrounded by experts and industry leaders provided real-world insights (a different kind of energy too!) into how impact capital is being deployed to address critical global challenges. It was inspiring to see the diversity of approaches – whether through catalytic capital, innovative financing mechanisms, leadership/organizational strategies, etc. One highlight for me personally was the intersection of impact investing and climate resilience, which ties directly to my capstone project on mobilizing private bank investments in resilient climate infrastructure under the CRA.

How will your participation in this conference/case competition support your professional development?
The conference provided a lot of tools and frameworks (discussed during panels, delegate-led discussions, etc.) on evaluating social impact which also helped me build confidence in navigating cross-sector dialogues – a crucial skill for any role. As someone who is very much interested in food systems, the exposure to diverse perspectives not only reaffirmed but also enhanced my understanding of the importance of creating inclusive, innovative solutions, especially in sectors like food systems/resilience where inequity is very much prevalent (yet hidden).

What are some next steps or action items this conference/case competition inspired?
Some next steps include applying lessons learned to our investment strategy in NIIF, especially around innovative financing mechanisms and impact measurement, as well as expanding my network and keeping the connections I created active by following up with those whose work aligns with my interests!

What are some tips or best practices that you would like to share with other Wagner students who attend a conference/case competition?
Research the companies and speakers attending beforehand. This not only helps tailor your approach but also makes it easier to engage in meaningful conversations. Aggressive networking can be overwhelming and, for many, counterproductive (at least for me), not a bad idea to form a few genuine connections by having thoughtful conversations that focus on shared interests. Identify what you want and structure your time accordingly - be it learning, networking, or exploring career options. Don’t let the connections end at the conference! Send personalized follow-ups to people you connected with. Conferences can be intense, so remember to take breaks!

Wagner Areas of Impact: Education, Finance, Government, Health, Housing, Inequality, Race, and Poverty, International Development, Leadership, Nonprofits, Social Innovation