Xuelian is a human-centered leader with a strong background in HR strategy and international board leadership, working across both nonprofit and for-profit sectors. Her journey reflects a deep commitment to navigating uncertainty, empowering communities, and creating meaningful social impact through people-first thinking. Fuzia is proud to feature Xuelian in Humans of Fuzia for her inspiring perspective on resilience, leadership, and women empowerment. Her story encourages our global community of 5 million mission-driven individuals to support women’s growth through both He for She and She for She initiatives while building a more inclusive future.
Q: What inspired you to become the person you are today?
Xuelian: My journey is deeply rooted in my HR background and my work across nonprofit and for-profit sectors. I’ve seen how uncertainty affects both industries — from funding challenges in nonprofits to workforce disruptions caused by AI. These experiences led me to focus on human-centered development strategies that help organizations transform and grow. I strongly believe that success comes from prioritizing people, strengthening relationships, and asking how we can support others as humans first.
Q: How can organizations and leaders maintain authenticity while using AI?
Xuelian: Authenticity requires verification and responsibility. We should always validate AI-generated information by seeking second opinions or using multiple sources. Organizations also need strong data governance and ethical guidelines around AI use. From data input to algorithm design and leadership-level decisions, every layer must ensure credibility. Technology should support human judgment, not replace it.
Q: What advice would you give to entrepreneurs, especially women in the nonprofit sector?
Xuelian: First, nonprofit work is still an enterprise — it requires a survival mindset just like a startup. Leaders should not rely only on funding but build sustainable models and clearly communicate their impact. Storytelling is essential because people invest in people. Entrepreneurs should also adopt systems thinking and focus on engaging all stakeholders — donors, teams, volunteers, and communities. A human-first mindset is key to long-term success.
Q: What message from your journey would you like to share with a wider audience?
Xuelian: Purpose is everything. We make a living by what we get, but we build a life by what we give. In times of uncertainty, we should focus on how we can serve others and contribute meaningfully. At the same time, we must strengthen ourselves so we can uplift others and create a better world together.
Q: What does women empowerment mean to you?
Xuelian: Empowerment begins with aspiration. Women and young girls must be exposed to possibilities and role models so they can envision their future. Confidence comes next — believing in ourselves and continuing to learn. Then comes opportunity, which grows through strong networks and supportive communities. Finally, once we succeed, we must give back and help others rise. Empowerment is a continuous cycle of growth, support, and contribution.
“Find your purpose, give more than you take, and lift others as you grow — that is how we create a better world.”
Connect with Xuelian:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/xuelianchi/
Want to be featured?
If you’d like to be featured in the Humans of Fuzia series, email us at fuziatalent@fuzia.com.
