From star to scholar: Flora Chan's mission to educate

Video by Lin Jianping

For fans of classic Hong Kong TVB dramas, Flora Chan Wai-shan’s name is synonymous with memorable series like "Untraceable Evidence," which premiered 26 years ago. Now, Chan has stepped into a transformative new chapter — as an innovator and leader in education.

Flora Chan Wai-shan

At a launch event June 19,  Chan was officially appointed as Keyword Education's chief growth empowerment officer and director of learning development. The event, titled “From Entertainment Elite to Doctor of Education: Flora Chan’s Journey as an Educator," was held at the New Media Building in Futian District.

“This partnership feels especially timely, as it coincides with Keyword Education’s 18th anniversary and my recent graduation with a Doctor of Education from the University of Hong Kong,” Chan said at the event.

For Chan, fulfillment as an educator comes from helping people navigate their own paths. It's a philosophy she sees reflected in the very name of the company she now helps lead. “The name ‘Keyword’ resonates deeply with me — whether in learning or in life, identifying our own keywords is essential to navigating our personal journeys,” she explained.

Flora Chan Wai-shan delivers a speech during an event in Futian District last week. Photo courtesy of Keyword Education

The event featured a thematic short film starring Chan, structured around the cognitive stages of knowing, understanding, and realizing. She elaborated, "First, we know the concept. Then, we understand the ‘why’ behind it. Finally, we realize — applying knowledge with mastery."

Chan’s transition from entertainment to education was inspired by her early experiences teaching dance and English to new immigrants in Chinatown in the U.S., which kindled her appreciation for the transformative power of education. 

She believes that every child’s “growth keywords” are unique and should never be standardized. For her, the mission of educators is to provide the keys that open the world’s doors. As a scholar, mother, and education practitioner, Chan brings a nuanced understanding of both parents’ needs and children’s developmental challenges.

In 2025, Keyword Education established a strategic partnership with Shenzhen Press Group Publishing House. The alliance combined Keyword Education’s expertise in youth science and international curricula with Shenzhen Press Group’s strengths in educational publishing and cultural media. Together, they aim to create a comprehensive learning environment that uses rich content and modern technology to support the all-around development of young people. 

Chan, born in Hong Kong, moved with her family to the United States at a young age. She later returned to Hong Kong, where she rose to prominence as a versatile actress and television host. Throughout the 1990s and early 2000s, Chan established herself as one of TVB’s leading stars, earning critical acclaim and a loyal fan base for her compelling screen presence and professional dedication to the entertainment industry.