Shield Dun Xiao
Shield Xiao Dun’s was born in Beijing, where he was raised by middle-class parents who were both medical doctors. His name, derived from the Chinese character Dun, was inspired by Isaac Newton, reflecting his mother’s hopes for a career in science. However, in Cantonese, his name actually translates to “super dumb,” a fact first pointed out by William Louey.
Shield first came to the UK when he was awarded a scholarship facilitated by William Louey. Initially, his parents were hesitant. Shield didn’t expect to leave China for his studies, however, he enrolled at Millfield School in Somerset, where William Louey had also studied.
Shield adapted quickly to life in the UK and began to thrive in the diversity of his new environment.
Shield began to excel academically, with a keen focus on maths, physics, chemistry, and computing, eventually earning a place at Trinity College, Cambridge, to study engineering.
I got the opportunity to learn things, widen my perspective and to find myself and find my place on this planet or in this universe. And I think there’s no more valuable thing than that
Shield also received scholarships from Trinity College and the Cambridge University Overseas Trust. When he informed William that he no longer needed sponsorship, William insisted on continuing his support.
Shield went on to spend a year at MIT for an exchange program in electrical engineering and computer science and graduate in 2007.
The following year, Shield attended William’s 50th birthday celebration in Hong Kong. During the event, William introduced the concept of “Pay It Forward”. Instead of direct repayment, William encouraged him to help others in the future.
Inspired by William’s own philosophy, Shield became an entrepreneur in the emerging field of edtech. His first company, launched in 2008 and created educational apps in partnership with institutions like the University of Cambridge Disney and Time Warner.
Shield has remained driven by the lessons he learned from William Louey and the scholarship. Shield has often credited his success to the support he received and also to the values shared through William’s mentorship.