Zhourong “Kelvin” Li is a Belize-based entrepreneur and business owner with extensive experience in beverage distribution, hospitality, real estate development, and import operations. In 2012, he co-founded LC Distributors, later becoming the sole owner in 2014. Under Zhourong Li’s leadership, the company has grown into a trusted supplier of spirits and beverages for hotels, restaurants, and bars throughout San Pedro Town in Ambergris Caye. He oversees financial management, strategic decision-making, customer relations, and business growth while actively supporting scholarships and community initiatives.
In 2014, Zhourong Li co-founded Vin’s Liquors Ltd., which has since become Belize’s largest importer of spirits through strong supplier relationships, effective logistics, and strategic planning. He also acquired Hidden Jewel Boutique Hotel in 2022, transforming the property into a thriving hospitality business known for exceptional guest experiences and positive working conditions.
In 2021, Kelvin Li expanded his portfolio by establishing Ocean Palm Investments Limited, focusing on infrastructure, real estate, and property development projects across Belize. His leadership has contributed to successful road rehabilitation projects, eco-friendly transportation initiatives, beach reclamation, and residential developments. Driven by innovation, sound financial management, and community engagement, he continues to create lasting value through successful businesses that contribute to Belize’s economic growth and development.
What is your typical day, and how do you make it productive?
On weekdays, I wake up and make breakfast for myself and the family. I then take the kids to school, and once I return home I’ll organize my day. I start by going through emails and messages, and then I get ready and head to my office to work. Most of my day is spent on calls or meetings and managing my different businesses as any matters arise. Around 5 pm I will take a break and head home for dinner. I enjoy cooking so if there is something I want to eat in particular I will cook it myself. I spend time with the family and after the kids go to bed, I continue working if I have more work to do, or I take some time to relax by watching TV, listening to music, or sitting outside by my patio.
On weekends, I mostly work oN Saturdays, but oN Sundays we make it a point to make it a family day. I try to disconnect and enjoy my family. This consistency in my life helps me tO be more productive.
How do you bring ideas to life?
I am not an overthinker. If I have an idea, I tend to act quickly on it. I will make a few calls if I want to collaborate with others, or I just start planning out how to make all the pieces come together. I will sometimes run the idea by my wife if I am not too certain, but mostly I take the leap and start putting things into action quickly.
What’s one trend that excites you?
I would say AI is an exciting new trend. I think that is an area that I want to grow my knowledge on, as I want to use it to maximize my businesses. I am slowly getting into learning more about it, as I can say I am very old school. But technology can make life easier and I want to get more knowledgeable about it.
What is one habit that helps you be productive?
I would definitely say that I am a morning person. Regardless of how late I go to bed, I am energized in the mornings, and this helps me start my day more productively. If you get a late start to your day or constantly push tasks for later, that is precious time you are wasting.
What advice would you give your younger self?
I would definitely tell my younger self: “Follow your dreams, but know that on the way to success, not everyone who comes around you is a true friend, guard your heart and your mind.” I tend to have a soft heart for others, I always want to help and my intentions are good, but along the way I have been betrayed by some I considered friends.
What is the one thing you repeatedly do and recommend everyone else do?
I would recommend that everyone expand their professional networks because that helps with almost everything in life. Do not stick to the same people all the time. Meet people and see what new opportunities can arise. If your current circle of friends or acquaintances are not inspiring you to be better, then you need to explore new relationships.
When you feel overwhelmed or unfocused, what do you do?
I usually go somewhere quiet that helps me relax and reflect. I especially enjoy going to sit by my fish pond, as that gives me the tranquility and peace of mind that I need in that moment. On really intense days, sometimes I will escape to my farm and do some hunting there.
What is one strategy that has helped you grow your business or advance in your career?
I always look at everything as an investment. By doing so, I choose how to spend my time and energy on things that are important and bring value to my life. I also rely on the professionals in the field of business I am interested in. I do not know everything and it is important that I get advice from people who are knowledgeable and trustworthy.
What is one failure in your career, how did you overcome it, and what lessons did you take away from it?
A recent business investment, where I acquired a business from a friend, but now I realize that business and friendships should never mix. This decision was led by my heart more than my head and now it is costing me a financial burden.
I have had to strategize, and try to maximize the profits from my other businesses to help recover this investment. I have learned that I cannot assume that others have the same intentions, and at the end of the day, business is business.
What is one business idea you’re willing to give away to our readers?
I think that any business in the AI industry is smart. I also think that solar energy is also the future. So, perhaps combining AI and solar energy will be innovative. I haven’t quite figured out how, but I think it is worth exploring.
What is one piece of software that helps you be productive? How do you use it?
Microsoft Office, particularly Excel, has helped to make my life easier. I have all my businesses organized on my Excel Sheets. This helps me keep track of all of the important details.
What is the best $100 you recently spent? What and why?
Paying for movie tickets and snacks for myself and my family. It was a nice family bonding time. We all enjoyed the movie and it was a nice escape.
Do you have a favorite book or podcast you’ve gotten a ton of value from and why?
I don’t read much. I also do not watch podcasts.
What’s a movie or series you recently enjoyed and why?
I recently watched Moana the live remake. I enjoyed watching it with my wife and kids. I also enjoyed the message behind the movie. It reminds us that we need to go through difficult moments to get the rewards of life. Life is not handed out easily, it can be tough and we have to push through.
Key learnings
- Start your day early.
- Believe in yourself, your goals, and your ability to achieve them.
- Network to uplift yourself.
- Always value your family.
- Always go the extra mile.