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History
A well-connected network helping others to succeed in the UK-China space
Our goals are simple
• To be the leading, independent professionals’ membership network providing the best interface between the UK and China
• To increase understanding and enable open dialogue between Chinese and British people at all levels, including government and business
• To support businesses and individuals to achieve their aims through business services that add value such as cross-cultural skills training, recruitment services, networking events, Mandarin tuition and translation services
• To create and promote business opportunities through our genuine community
Our roots
With simple beginnings as a meeting point for friends interested in China, the Chopsticks Club has transformed itself into the UK’s leading China hub. Our club, initially known as China Tuesdays, was founded in 1993 by Rupert Hoogewerf, now widely known in China as Hurun, the leading authority on China’s wealthy elite and ‘Godfather’ of the ‘China Rich List’. The original group comprised graduates in Chinese studies from Durham University who met regularly to keep track of China’s rapid evolution. In 1997, H-J Colston, a founder member of the Club, returned from working in China and joined Theresa Booth who had also worked there. Together they took over the group’s management and re-named it the Chopsticks Club. The name evokes the centrality of food in Chinese culture to building relationships, trust and social networks.
Our growth
We encourage open discussion and are sensitive to the opinions of others. Over the years, our community has grown from a handful of people into the largest and most dynamic network of up-and-coming and established leaders in the UK-China space. Our work is valued and recognised by both the Chinese and British governments in boosting bi-lateral dialogue and business opportunities as well as providing a unique platform for building lasting cross-cultural friendships and learning Mandarin. Our members are real ambassadors for UK-China relations.
Our future
We are very well connected and already recognised as a hub for all things Chinese. We aspire to be the one-stop destination for organisations and individuals aiming to build strong relationships between the UK and China. We collaborate with and support our members, many of whom are entrepreneurs with their own businesses. See how we can help you.
What has been happening in our China operations now makes sense thanks to your training!