Johanna Smith was living in Shanghai when she joined EIA in July 2019. Coming from New Zealand, the agricultural sales young professional was taking a six-month break to improve her Mandarin. Living in a new country, Johanna had the chance to took a marketing internship, work on a personal business project and attend the entrepreneurship program.

A few months after the program, we at EIA had the chance to talk to Johanna Smith who shared a little about her experience at the European Innovation Academy in Hong Kong.

1. What are you passionate about?

There are a few great passions in my life. Sustainable agriculture, personal development, health and fitness are some of the topics that are on the top of the list.

What were the expectations for EIA and what did you get from the program? 

I expected to develop my entrepreneurial mindset and learn from like-minded young people. Because of the fantastic team, we formed there, I also got to work on something I’m really passionate about which was more than I had hoped for.

What was your biggest challenge?

Understanding and managing the team effectively to put everyone’s unique strengths to use to achieve the programme goals.

Johanna Smith with PAC it team at EIA HK 2019
Johanna with her team at EIA HK 2019.

How would you describe your EIA Days?

  • Intense;
  • Exciting;
  • Productive;
  • Motivating;
  • Exhausting.

What was your best #eiamoment?

The funniest was when a coffee cup was spilt at our table and Aayush’s first reaction meant he almost mopped it up with our only financial workings 😂

Do you have any piece of advice for the next participants?

Approach it with an open mind and get plenty of sleep the week before!

Can you share a quote that inspires you?

“It’s not what you are that holds you back, it’s what you think you’re not.” – Dennis Whitley

Inspired by Johanna Smith? Click to find out more stories about EIA participants!