SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA.- His name is Albert Jing, the Founder-CEO of OneFriends. The OneFriends app has users over the world, in more than 70 countries as of early 2023 and has a beautiful design. Up to 17 people have been part of his team or have worked for him in various roles. Before beginning to build his company, Jing was an Australian corporate and commercial disputes lawyer. He studied at the University of Sydney Law School and Business School. Jing’s long-time mentor is William Gummow, an eminent former Justice of the High Court of Australia.

Jing speaks calmly, portraying at once a deep confidence and dignity, but tempered by his natural charisma and courtesy. He says he’s currently not as fit as he normally is because of taking an extended break from competitive swimming – but there is still no overlooking the broadness of his shoulders – indicative of being a very high level swimmer in modern times or perhaps a leader of soldiers from a bygone era. A man of great intellectual culture and erudition, despite not yet being 30 in age, his speech moves effortlessly from historical and literary allusions to the specific details of running a fast-growing technology company. There are many things very prepossessing and fascinating about him, his rare character evoking a sense of admiration.

To say that Jing’s life and background is interesting may be somewhat of an understatement. Although he’s Australian and had grown up in Sydney, Jing’s maternal ancestors were Manchu high nobility during the Qing Dynasty (1636-1912) up until the early 20th century. Their family descended from Prince Daisan - one of the most powerful princes of the Aisin-Gioro clan and second son of Qing Dynasty founder Nurhaci. Jing recounts how his late grandfather who he was very close with, used to tell him stories about the territories near Manchuria formerly under their ownership and subject to the family’s private military control.

When asked about his ideas and beliefs on leadership Jing says, “My view on leadership is that there are certain timeless principles which are foundational to being a high caliber leader in any field and then there are qualities that are very specific to the particular situation." “The former category, the timeless qualities, I can speak about” he says, “and that includes things such as integrity and keeping your word because a great leader has to be trustworthy, and that’s in not just big deeds but also small. A genuine care for those you are leading, that human touch. Ability to absorb large amounts of information very quickly and the perspicacity to arrive at the best decision despite many seeming uncertainties and conflicting pieces of data. It’s like being able to see the shining light that is the answer through the fog. A high stress tolerance and the ability to be unflappable under pressure I also regard very highly.”

When asked how one can become strong under pressure and stress, he replies, “I think it comes from having overcome many challenges in the past and a sense of commitment to what you’ve set out on your journey to do. And remaining true to that vision.” He adds, “Also once you’ve brought other people onto your team or have people supporting you, there’s a strong inner feeling of responsibility and duty. A leader should lead by example and if required endure the same challenges as everyone else if not more.”

Jing proceeded to explain what ‘vision’ means to him, a concept that he seems to hold dear. “Vision in my mind is about the combination of imagination, cautious foresight, ability and courage when applied to achieving something that brings benefit to people on a large scale. I say courage because it is about achieving something that is inherently very difficult but that the leader believes if achieved, will be for the good of many and thus dedicates themselves to bringing that worthwhile vision to life despite the difficulties.” He then concludes, “It is often something that the leader sees first before anyone else, but once accomplished then people retrospectively are gladdened and very thankful that it was in fact done.”

We look forward to seeing Albert Jing’s continued success in the future, in business and beyond. An especially able leader like him brings both hope and fear. Hope that he can help us resolve difficult problems and carry things to high achievement; and fear that we won’t needlessly have to be his opponent in some field. Indeed, the author of this article has become a supporter of Albert, if not for a good cause, then simply to walk together with such a man.