WLA 2025 – Meet HeforShe Finalists

November 1, 2025

Andrew Hill

Founder, Director

ELG and Xiersen

Since arriving in China in 1989, Andrew Hill has dedicated his career to building organizations that bridge business, education, and community service. In 2006, he founded The Essential Learning Group (ELG), one of China’s first international organizations devoted to supporting children with special needs and their families. ELG’s multidisciplinary team has since provided vital services to thousands of children and educators across China.

Continuing his mission to improve special education, Andrew established Xiersen Children’s Center, a registered non-profit organization, in 2015. Xiersen focuses on training, advocacy, and social inclusion for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Andrew’s commitment to service extends beyond his professional work. A member of Rotary International since 2005, he served as President of the Rotary Club of Shanghai in 2016 and was later appointed Special Representative of China for Rotary International—Rotary’s highest national leadership position in the country. His outstanding contributions to society were recognized in 2010 when he received The Charity Star of Shanghai Award, the city’s most prestigious individual honor for philanthropy.

Andrew also channels his creativity into storytelling that promotes inclusion and understanding. Through Special Slices (www.specialslices.com), he created a comic universe celebrating the experiences and heroism of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. In addition, through his Pokémon YouTube channel, Snake Pit Collectibles, he explores cross-generational storytelling—bridging cultures, creativity, and shared passions through the power of community.

Through his leadership, compassion, and imagination, Andrew continues to inspire change and champion inclusion across China and beyond.

David Ammerschlaeger

ChingHo Medical

Chief Psychological Counsellor

David is a passionate psychologist and staunch advocate for women’s rights, especially within professional environments where gender equity remains a critical challenge. Over more than a decade in the corporate world, he championed diversity and inclusion, beginning as a managing consultant at EY coaching international female recruits—supporting and empowering women early in their careers.

His commitment deepened at L’Oréal Research & Innovation as CFO and project manager for Diversity, Equity & Inclusion (DE&I) programs within research laboratories. Later, at Capgemini, while working on global consultancy and merger & acquisitions, he also joined the group ethics team to develop and deploy DE&I initiatives worldwide believing inclusive workplaces drive success for all.

David’s advocacy is also deeply personal. He met his wife, a Chinese national, in Paris in 2010. In 2016, when both were promoted internationally—David to Berlin and his wife to Shanghai—he prioritized her strong professional ambitions and desire to be near her family by supporting her career, even stepping back from his own corporate path.

Holding four master’s degrees in three fields, David transitioned from tax law and business consulting to mental health leadership. Now chief psychological counselor at ChingHo Medical and former head of Mental Health & Wellbeing at YWIES he combines his expertise as a psychotherapist working with individuals, couples, and families and his voice through workshops, training, lectures, and media appearances—including three TEDx talks— to support mental health, challenge gender bias and promote workplaces where women’s contributions are truly valued and supported.

We can’t wait to see you at the WLA Ceremony!

Join us for an afternoon of celebration at The St. Regis Shanghai Jingan, where we will honor this year’s remarkable winners and nominees over a sumptuous buffet lunch with free flow of house wine and beverages.

1. Champion a Meaningful Cause

IPWS is dedicated to empowering women professionals to lead the future. The WLA recognizes the achievements of outstanding female professionals (and supportive men) who are shaping their fields. Let’s change the narrative around women’s accomplishments and inspire others by celebrating those who stand tall for their causes.

2. Build Connections

An afternoon of meaningful conversations and new connections. Meet professionals from diverse industries, finalists, jury members, and the vibrant IPWS community in an atmosphere of inspiration and collaboration.

3. Celebrate with Friends

Celebrate a meaningful occasion with friends and colleagues. Book a group ticket for 5 or 10 people at a special rate and enjoy reserved seating together for an afternoon of connection and inspiration.

4. Gain Inspiration and Leadership Insights

Discover the winners across six categories and hear from our keynote speakers about their journeys to leadership. Their stories are sure to motivate and empower you!