Lessons From The War Zone — Dinner with Jason Yip, Program Manager of International Committee of the Red Cross

Sometimes the most meaningful and inspiring conversations happen over casual meals. The Time Auction Blog is a snippet of our meetings with people who have found passion in their life and career, where we get a glimpse into their mentality behind their ventures.

From investment banker to frontline Red Cross worker, Jason can be found in the midst of wherever aid is needed most: be it in the middle of a war or the site of a massive earthquake, he will be there coordinating relief and aid efforts as a Program Manager of the International Committee of Red Cross.

Drawing upon his skills attained from his experience as an investment banker, Jason has been flying around the world facilitating humanitarian intervention in battlefields.

What is your life philosophy?

“To make the world a better place.

A better place with one less unhappy person in it, yourself.

While it is not a grand gesture, it is something that you should do. Treat yourself better, stop being so harsh on yourself, help the world by starting with yourself.”

How do you manage stress?

“Admit that you are weak. You have to admit that you have a weakness, it is something which too many of us are unwilling to do. It is nothing to be ashamed of.

By admitting you are weak, it shows that you have courage, courage to face your weakness head on.

You trip, but you do not stay down, you find a way to get back up. Too often we only take steps forward and do not let ourselves take a step back, only by taking a step back can you get a better view of the situation and figure out a solution.

Also, you have to open up to someone. We tend to close up ourselves too much and not let others see our inner selves. Open up to someone so they can understand you better and pull you back if you go too deep into the abyss.”

What is one habit that you want everyone to develop?

“Trial and error. Do not be afraid to make mistakes, if you don’t let yourself make mistakes when you are young, you won’t get the chance when you are old. You do not need to be perfect, far from it, you just need to know how to improve yourselves.”

Thank you Jason for donating his time, and thanks to everyone who volunteered and took part in raising 178 volunteer hours to AFS Intercultural Exchange, Li & Fung Foundation, Food Angel and more. Big thank you to our venue sponsor Dorsett Hospitality International, event photography sponsor Josh Tam and volunteer Ivy Fung!

For more amazing opportunities, visit Time Auction to volunteer and meet inspiring mentors!