OpenWay’s NEXUS event in Shanghai celebrates collaboration and everyday innovation

The name NEXUS reflects OpenWay’s belief in connection: between people, ideas, and everyday work. This year’s theme, “Create Everyday,” focused on how innovation is built through consistent effort — strategic thinking, small decisions, ongoing learning, and the willingness to try new approaches as part of daily work.

OpenWay NEXUS also included key leadership meetings focused on business alignment and planning. The OpenWay Asia Management Meeting reviewed 2025 results, discussed priorities for 2026, and addressed topics related to internal collaboration across markets.

Stepping out of routine, together

Set against Shanghai’s mix of modern skyline and historic neighborhoods, the event combined structured sessions with time to explore the city together. As the team walked along the Huangpu River and visited the dynamic Chenghuangmiao Market, these shared moments created space for informal conversations and closer connections among colleagues usually separated by physical distance.

Learning by doing

A key part of the program was a hands-on team workshop focused on practical problem-solving and experimentation. OpenWay colleagues were challenged to design, assemble, and program small autonomous robots in groups — an activity that required teamwork, adaptability, and clear communication.

For many participants, it was their first time working with hardware, sensors, or microcontrollers. The room buzzed with energy as teams tested ideas, fixed errors, celebrated small wins, and laughed as robots behaved in unexpectedly creative ways. It was a celebration of curiosity, collaboration, and the confidence to learn by doing — and tremendously fun!

Leadership perspectives on everyday innovation

Rudy Gunawan, Managing Director of OpenWay Asia, spoke about the reality behind innovation and growth:

Rudy Gunawan Managing Director (Asia) OpenWay

“Big success stories often hide the work behind them — many small steps, repeated attempts, and everyday decisions. Innovation isn’t one defining moment. It’s built through persistence, humility, and the willingness to step outside familiar routines.”

The message resonated strongly with participants at all career stages, reinforcing that creativity and impact at OpenWay are not limited by title or experience.

The workshop was supported by Eduardo Alarcón, Founder and CEO of TokyLabs, an education company focused on making technology and robotics learning accessible and engaging. In a short talk, Eduardo shared practical insights from building his company, emphasizing how innovation often develops through experimentation, iteration, and persistence rather than perfectly defined plans.

Create everyday

NEXUS also created space for lighter moments. Informal activities, including a lucky draw and a team concert, brought out the personality, creativity, and enthusiasm of the OpenWay team. These moments strengthened connections and reflected the collaborative culture that drives OpenWay forward. Create Everyday is how all of us can contribute daily to building reliable, scalable payment solutions and shaping the future of the industry!