Do you prefer individual or team sports and why? 

While I enjoy both, I have a strong preference for team sports. The sportsmanship and collaborative nature of team sports like basketball have profoundly influenced my working style and leadership approach, even today at LinkedIn. Playing competitively in my younger days taught me several valuable lessons:

• Teamwork: Success is a team sport, and that's true both at work and on the court. Playing basketball has reminded me of the importance of collaboration, communication and trust. These are all essential skills in the workplace, too. Whether you're working on a project with colleagues or going for the hoops on court, you need to be able to work effectively as a team.
• The importance of being agile: While starting with a strategy and plan is important, the unpredictable nature of the game makes being agile essential for maintaining a competitive edge and adapting to unforeseen challenges on the court.
• Growth mindset: Every game is an opportunity to learn and improve, regardless of the results. This mindset encourages continuous growth and a positive attitude towards challenges.

These experiences have been instrumental in shaping how I lead and collaborate at LinkedIn, emphasising the importance of teamwork, mentorship and a growth-oriented mindset.

When and how often do you do sport? 

I try to incorporate basketball into my weekly routine whenever possible when I get together for an after-work game with the LinkedIn team.

See also: Michelle Yong on rowing for the men's boat at university, sport’s role in self-care and the lessons learned from defeat

How do you make sure you fit sports into your schedule? Any tips or strategies on how to do so as a busy executive?

Balancing a demanding career with personal activities can be challenging, but it's all about prioritisation and time management. I schedule my workouts just like any other important meeting, ensuring they are non-negotiable parts of my day. For busy executives, I recommend finding a routine that works best for you, whether it’s early morning workouts or evening sessions. The key is consistency and making it a regular part of your lifestyle. 

How has sport help you personally and professionally? 

Playing basketball has taught me many valuable lessons, from mental strength and teamwork to anticipating the other players’ moves and being quick on my feet. I'm grateful for the lessons I've learned from playing basketball, and how I’ve been able to apply them to my work. Basketball has also helped me connect with others and playing together gives me tremendous energy. 

Do you have a proudest sporting moment or achievement? 

One of my proudest moments was leading my university basketball team to a championship victory. It was a culmination of months of hard work, dedication and strategic play. That experience not only reinforced my love for the sport but also taught me invaluable lessons in leadership and perseverance that I carry with me to this day.

See also: Fengru Lin on making time for movement, bonding over burning off leeches, and optimising exercise for longevity

Why do you think people who play sports are more likely to achieve in the workplace and how do you think sport has contributed to your career journey?

Sports like basketball teach valuable lessons in teamwork and leadership that can be applied in the corporate world. Just as players rely on each other's strengths and communicate effectively to achieve common goals, I’ve used these skills to foster a collaborative environment, leveraging diverse talents within my teams. Both basketball and business require a balance of strategic planning and the agility to pivot when unexpected situations arise, emphasising the importance of adaptability, trust and collective effort in driving success. 

Why is sport important for women in particular?

I believe taking up sports could be beneficial for everyone, promoting physical fitness, mental well-being and confidence. Engaging in basketball has helped me build resilience, enhance teamwork and my leadership skills, and foster a sense of community—and I hope other women would be able to benefit from the sports of their choice as well. Fundamentally, I believe that women can succeed in anything we put our minds to, whether it’s our careers or a sport. 

What are you most excited about for Paris 2024?

Paris 2024 is a monumental event that will showcase the incredible talent and dedication of athletes from around the world while bringing a sense of unity and inspiration. I’m particularly excited about the stories of perseverance and triumph that will emerge from the games. These stories are not just about winning medals but about our capacity to overcome challenges and achieve greatness.

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