Text by Grace Cai – Photo Credit: NMBA
12 July 2024 – Shaunna Li, a standout New Zealand women’s singles and mixed doubles badminton player, has demonstrated remarkable success both on and off the court. With a BWF world ranking of 231 in women’s singles and 140 in mixed doubles with partner Edward Lau , Li balances her athletic career with impressive academic achievements. She is currently pursuing a Bachelor of Commerce and a Bachelor of Science at the University of Auckland, majoring in Marketing, Information Systems, and Statistics.
Despite the demands of her roles as a student and an athlete, Li has excelled in both arenas. The past few weeks have been particularly busy for her. Before embarking on a two-week tournament leg in Saipan, she competed in the EY (Ernst & Young) NextGen Women in Strategy and Transactions competition. Her journey in the competition saw her named as a finalist at the regional finals in Auckland, which secured her a spot in the Oceania final in Melbourne, held just a week before the CROWNE PLAZA Northern Marianas Open, followed by the DOVE Saipan International 2024.
The EY NextGen Women in Strategy and Transactions is a competition that seeks to inspire purpose-driven women who challenge conventional thinking, ask critical questions, and strive to build a better world. This competition aims to attract the next generation of exceptional female talent to pursue a rewarding career in Strategy and Transactions. In this competition Li has been familiarised with assisting clients in navigating complexity by reimagining ecosystems, reshaping portfolios, and reinventing themselves for a better future. By leveraging a global network of top-tier thinkers, EY teams create and implement practical strategies for clients worldwide. Reflecting upon this competition, Li expressed she was uncertain about what to expect as she advanced to the Oceania finals. Aware of the tough competition ahead, she found the challenge even more demanding than anticipated. However, she thoroughly enjoyed this journey and embraced the opportunity for growth and development. In her own words, Li remarked, “These are the experiences that I need, to take me further in the long run.”
Balancing academics, athletics, and internships, Li shares the challenges of fusing her rigorous training schedule with her academic pursuits and upcoming internship. “I try my best, but I don’t think I do it all perfectly,” she says. Time management is crucial for Li, who fits in training sessions whenever she can. Her university has been supportive, allowing her to shift exams and extend assignment deadlines when necessary. Despite the juggling act, Li is always looking for ways to improve. She acknowledges the difficulties that lie ahead, especially with an internship coinciding with the Oceania Championships in February of 2025. As someone who aims to be good at everything, Li strives to excel in all her endeavors. “I put my full energy into both academics and sports. It’s hard to pick one to focus on because both are equally important at this stage of my life,” she explains. Rather than giving a half-hearted effort to each, she is determined to reach her full potential in both areas. Employers today value individuals with a broad perspective on life, and Li believes her diverse experiences give her an edge; as her professional pursuits enhance her analytical skills on the court, making her a more strategic and intentional player.
Li’s motivation stems from her competitive nature. “I like to win. If I don’t have a specific goal, my aim is always to do my best,” she says. The desire to be number one drives her daily efforts in both badminton and her professional aspirations. Looking to the future, Li faces the challenge of juggling multiple ambitions. “It’s hard to pinpoint one thing I want to do because I’m involved in so much right now,” she confesses. Despite the lack of funding and support, she hopes to explore where badminton can take her. Her future goals include competing in more international tournaments, improving her rankings, and potentially participating in the Commonwealth Games and the Olympics. Professionally, Li is eager to dive into the corporate finance world, though she remains open to where her career path may lead. “I don’t know if I’ll continue in corporate finance, but I’m excited to see how the year unfolds,” she reflects.
Despite the end of her run in Saipan, Li delivered commendable performances that highlight her skills as a top athlete in Oceania. At the CROWNE PLAZA Northern Marianas Open 2024, she advanced to the mixed doubles quarterfinals with Edward Lau. Additionally, at the DOVE Saipan International 2024, she reached the round of 16 in both women’s singles and mixed doubles events. These achievements reflect her consistent effort and impressive talent on the court.
Li embodies the spirit of determination and adaptability. Her ability to thrive in both her academic pursuits and her sporting career highlights her exceptional dedication, resilience, and time management, setting an inspiring example for young athletes and professionals alike.
CROWNE PLAZA Northern Marianas Open 2024 (2-7 July) Results:
Women’s Singles:
Mixed Doubles w/ Edward Lau (NZL):
DOVE Saipan International 2024 (9-13 July) Results:
Women’s Singles:
Mixed Doubles:
Achievements:
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