As the visionary force behind Visionary Healthcare Group, Smilelove, and Pureverse, Lina Chong has dedicated her career to breaking down systemic barriers in healthcare and redefining emotional well-being for the digital age. A trailblazer in male-dominated industries, Lina has used her background in finance, healthcare, and technology to create solutions that bridge gaps for marginalized communities across Asia and beyond.

In this interview, Lina discusses revolutionizing dental care, destigmatizing mental health, and breaking barriers as a woman leader. She also shares the grassroots impact of the Jing Yuan Charity Foundation and her vision for a more compassionate, inclusive future in healthcare.

• When you founded Visionary Healthcare Group and Smilelove, what specific challenges in dental care did you aim to address, and how has your tele-dental approach made a difference for Asian communities?

When we launched Visionary Healthcare Group and Smilelove, we confronted a harsh reality: Millions across Asia faced geographic isolation, financial barriers, and cultural stigmas that kept essential dental care out of reach. Families in rural villages, low-income neighborhoods, and marginalized communities often had no access to clinics, insurance, or even basic education about oral health’s impact on overall well-being.

Our tele-dental model was designed to meet people where they are. We have eliminated the need for travel and long waits through virtual consultations, tailored treatment plans, and remote delivery of orthodontic tools like clear aligners. By prioritizing prevention and education, we empower individuals to control their health. Our mission is rooted in the belief that quality care should never be a luxury but a right accessible to all, regardless of circumstance.

• What personal insights inspired the integration of AI into mental health, and how do you envision reshaping society’s approach to emotional well-being?

The inspiration behind Pureverse stemmed from a striking paradox: while technology has advanced at an unprecedented pace, emotional well-being remains largely overlooked—especially in regions where stigma or lack of access prevents people from seeking help. I wanted to build a platform where technology doesn’t replace human connection but enhances it, making mental wellness more accessible, inclusive, and engaging.

At Pureverse, we are redefining how people cultivate emotional resilience by integrating gamification with decentralization. Our viral Telegram Singing Bowl game, for instance, rewards users with real gold, reinforcing the idea that inner peace is not just an abstract concept but something of real, tangible value. By turning mental wellness into an interactive and rewarding experience, we aim to shift outdated perceptions of emotional health. Rather than viewing it as a burden to be managed, we want people to embrace it as a fulfilling, empowering, and even joyful journey.

• As a woman leading in male-dominated industries like finance, healthcare, and tech, what obstacles have shaped your path, and have you turned these into opportunities?

Throughout my career, I’ve navigated unconscious biases, underrepresentation, and moments where my voice felt overshadowed in rooms dominated by men. These challenges taught me the power of resilience and the importance of creating spaces where diverse perspectives thrive.

Empathy and inclusivity are the foundation of my leadership style, influenced by my experiences in philanthropy. I see leadership as more than just guiding teams or making decisions—it’s about uplifting others, breaking down barriers, and creating meaningful opportunities. My goal is to make it easier for the next generation, particularly women, to step confidently into leadership roles, knowing they belong at the table and have the support to succeed.

• Your work with the Jing Yuan Charity Foundation reflects a deep commitment to the community. How do initiatives like the SMILE Project fit your broader goals for equitable healthcare?

Philanthropy is at the core of everything I do, driving my commitment to creating meaningful change. At the Jing Yuan Charity Foundation, we focus on closing healthcare gaps through impactful community initiatives. One such initiative is the SMILE Project, launched in March 2024 in partnership with Caritas Hong Kong and other organizations. Over the next two years, this program will provide free dental care to 2,500 individuals across 15 clinics in Hong Kong while also promoting awareness about the importance of oral health.

Our mission is rooted in the belief that healthcare should be accessible, dignified, and preventative. SMILE encapsulates this vision by offering essential care and empowering communities through education and advocacy. By integrating service with long-term solutions, we strive to create lasting, equitable change in healthcare.

Ultimately, my work with the foundation reminds me daily of why our mission is essential, guiding us to ensure that every innovation truly benefits our patients.

• Looking forward, how do you see AI personalizing mental health support, and what role will Pureverse play in this evolution?

Looking ahead, AI has the potential to redefine mental health care, making it more personal, culturally attuned, and widely accessible. We envision a future where AI models go beyond diagnosing clinical symptoms to truly understand the complexities of human emotions, spiritual beliefs, and life experiences. By integrating these nuances, AI can offer more compassionate, context-aware support that respects individuality and fosters genuine healing.

At Pureverse, we are leading this transformation with a steadfast commitment to ethical innovation. Our AI is trained exclusively on high-quality, real-world data sourced from Zen masters, mental health professionals, and millions of anonymized user cases. This ensures our models are not only clinically sound but also deeply empathetic, bridging the gap between science and human connection.

Beyond technology, we’re embedding altruism directly into our platform, creating a decentralized ecosystem where users can contribute, collaborate, and benefit collectively. By empowering individuals to support and learn from one another, we are reshaping mental wellness into a shared journey rather than a solitary struggle. Our mission is not just to advance AI but to advance humanity, ensuring that innovation serves as a force for inclusivity, healing, and meaningful change.

• What advice would you offer to emerging leaders in this industry?

My advice for those entering the healthcare field is to remain resilient and open to change. New technologies, shifting regulations, and evolving patient expectations continually reshape the field, so it is vital to stay flexible and willing to adapt, even if that means challenging established methods. In addition, I encourage you to seek out mentors who can provide guidance and support and always keep the needs of patients at the forefront of your work.

Empathy is not just a desirable quality in this industry; it’s indispensable. Understanding the real needs of patients not only guides you in developing practical solutions but also ensures that your efforts are grounded in compassion. At the same time, a clear strategic vision is necessary. The ability to foresee challenges and opportunities alike can help you navigate the complex landscape of healthcare.