In a world full of flashy headlines and short attention spans, it’s rare to find someone like Hong Wei Liao, a quiet but powerful force in both business and philanthropy. Born in Hunan, China, and now based in Toronto, Canada, Liao has built her career around serving others while leading two major organizations: Respon Holding Inc. and Botrich Family Wealth Heritage and Development Center.
This is her story, told through real work, global connections, and a deep commitment to community.
From Hunan to Toronto
Liao was born on April 12, 1967, in Hunan Province, China. She later moved to Canada, where she earned a Master’s degree in Management from a university in Toronto, Ontario.
“I’ve always believed in education as the foundation of a strong future,” she says. “That belief guided my career, and still drives my work with youth today.”
Her early professional path isn’t filled with headlines or hype. It’s made of solid decisions, long hours, and a deep understanding of international business.
Expanding Vision Through Respon Holding
Since its founding, Respon Holding Inc., led by President Hong Wei Liao, has operated in Canada for over a decade. The company has built a strong track record in investment, asset management, and wealth advisory services. Under Ms. Liao’s leadership, Respon Holding has not only delivered consistent results across its core business areas but also laid the foundation for Botrich, a global platform connecting high-net-worth individuals, professionals, and enterprises worldwide. Ms. Liao currently serves as Chair of the Botrich Family Wealth Inheritance and Development Center, continuing her vision of cross-border innovation and long-term legacy planning.
While she rarely speaks about her personal achievements, Liao is clear about what fuels her work. “Business isn’t just about numbers,” she says. “It’s about people, trust, and long-term thinking.”
Building Botrich
From her work at Respon Holding, Liao launched something more ambitious: the Botrich Family Wealth Heritage and Development Center. The goal? Help high-net-worth individuals manage their wealth, legacy, and health through tailored services.
Botrich is a global professional services platform with extensive experience serving high-net-worth clients. It consistently demonstrates its ability to bring together international expertise and deliver integrated solutions in wealth management, tax planning, premium lifestyle services, and international entrepreneurship support.
Under Liao’s leadership, Botrich has expanded throughout Canada and other countries, earning recognition for its holistic, family-focused approach.
A Lifelong Mission: Helping Youth
Outside the boardroom, Liao has spent over a decade working with the Canada Youth Funding Association (CYFA). She serves as its Life Honorary Chair, and her support goes far beyond titles.
Through CYFA, she’s mentored students, hosted business proposal competitions, and delivered quarterly masterclasses on leadership and innovation. Many of these events are held in Eastern and Western Canada, with some drawing participants from both sides of the country.
“I care about more than just success,” she explains. “I care about building the mindset that leads to success.”
Her programs stress self-expression, mental well-being, and family harmony. These aren’t just nice ideas, they’re central themes of Liao’s work.
Recognition and Awards
Over the years, Liao has earned numerous awards for her efforts:
- King Charles III Coronation Medal (2025)
- Queen Elizabeth II Platinum Jubilee Award (2022)
- Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal (2013)
- Global Women of Excellence Award (2023)
- Ontario Provincial 10-Year Service Award (2024)
- UNICEF Recognition (2023, 2024)
These honors reflect both her business leadership and social contributions. But she rarely mentions them. “Awards are a result,” she says. “The real work happens quietly and every day.”
Global Partnerships
Liao’s career has also taken her back to her roots. She is the Lifetime Honorary President of the Central South University (CSU) Alumni Association, where she helps strengthen academic and business ties between North America and China.
In April 2025, she hosted an exclusive banquet in Toronto for CSU leaders visiting on a North American tour. The event brought together university officials, consular staff, and leaders in education.
“We’re building a bridge,” she said at the time. “Not just between institutions, but between ways of thinking.”
Giving Back, Quietly
Liao supports several charities, including UNICEF and the North America United Global Women’s Association. Her focus is always on long-term impact, not short-term attention.
“I believe change comes from consistency,” she explains. “Small actions, done with care, can lead to lasting results.”
A Private Life with Public Impact
Though she keeps a low profile, Liao is deeply involved in the communities she serves. Whether she’s mentoring students, advising business leaders, or helping families manage their wealth, she stays grounded in one core idea: service.
“I don’t chase the spotlight,” she says. “If people remember me, I hope it’s for making a real difference in someone’s life.”
From Hunan to Toronto, from boardrooms to classrooms, Hong Wei Liao proves that quiet leadership can leave a powerful mark.
Interview with Hong Wei Liao
What inspired you to start Botrich Family Wealth Heritage and Development Center?
I saw a need for more than just financial services. Many families were looking for a complete approach, something that included wellness, legal planning, and legacy. Botrich was built to serve that need with depth and care.
How did your early experiences shape your approach to leadership?
Growing up in Hunan, I learned the value of hard work and patience. When I moved to Canada, I brought those values with me. Leadership, to me, is not about being loud, it’s about being thoughtful and consistent.
Why is youth mentorship so important to you?
Because I’ve seen how one opportunity can change a young person’s life. CYFA gives students a space to grow, through competitions, lectures, and real support. I don’t just want them to succeed in school. I want them to succeed in life.
You’ve received several major awards. How do you view those recognitions?
They’re an honor, of course. But I see them as recognition for the teams and communities I’ve worked with. The real achievement is seeing someone I’ve mentored find their own voice.
What’s one thing you’ve learned from working across three countries, China, Canada, and the U.S.?
Respect different perspectives. Every culture has its own rhythm and way of doing things. If you listen, you can build real trust. That’s where real collaboration begins.
What advice would you give to someone starting their career?
Don’t chase titles. Focus on the work. Stay curious. And most of all, do something that helps others. That’s where fulfillment really comes from.
