THESPRESSO

[Author: Lucia Wu]

THESPRESSO is an initiative designed to connect our community with distinguished professionals, including Bocconi alumni and successful entrepreneurs with ties to China. This project draws inspiration from the well-known concept of a “coffee chat,” but with a unique twist—it unifies the cultural symbolism of two iconic beverages: Chinese tea and the Italian espresso.

The name “THESPRESSO” embodies the harmonious blend of these two rich traditions. Tea, a symbol deeply rooted in Chinese culture, represents reflection, wisdom, and mindfulness. It is a drink often associated with thoughtful conversations and meaningful exchanges of ideas. Espresso, on the other hand, is a quintessential Italian symbol, representing energy, intensity, and connection. Espresso is not just a drink; it is a way of gathering people for quick yet profound moments of sharing and interaction.

By combining these two iconic beverages, THESPRESSO captures the essence of the project: quick yet meaningful conversations that are rich in depth and energy. The name itself is also a clever wordplay on the Italian phrase “ti esprimo,” which translates to “I express to you,” and the verb esprimere, meaning “to express” or “to articulate.” This connection emphasizes the initiative’s purpose of creating a platform to express ideas, share stories, and inspire others.

THESPRESSO represents the perfect balance of fast-paced energy and reflective thoughtfulness, much like the beverages it draws inspiration from. The espresso symbolizes the fast-moving, impactful essence of modern professional life, while the tea brings in the contemplative, mindful approach to learning and growth. Together, they form a metaphor for the cultural and intellectual exchange that this initiative seeks to foster.

Through THESPRESSO, we aim to celebrate the fusion of Italian and Chinese cultural values while inspiring our community to engage in meaningful conversations. These interviews, conducted with distinguished professionals, explore their educational backgrounds, career paths, industry insights, and personal advice, creating content that is both enriching and motivational for young audiences.

Objectives

1. Foster Meaningful Connections – Build bridges between the community and accomplished professionals, strengthening ties and creating networking opportunities.
2. Share Career and Industry Insights – Provide young professionals with unique and practical insights into diverse career paths and industries, empowering them to make informed decisions about their futures.
3. Enhance Social Media Presence – Boost the association’s visibility on social media platforms by delivering engaging, relatable, and culturally rich content.