Personal statement
Over the past two decades, I have been fortunate to play a part in shaping the growth of Chinese language and culture education in Scotland and beyond. My professional journey has been guided by a commitment to intercultural understanding, educational innovation, and meaningful collaboration.
In my current role as Adviser to the Principal and Vice-Chancellor on University Engagement with China at the University of Strathclyde, I support the University’s China-facing strategy by helping to strengthen academic, diplomatic, and cultural partnerships. Working alongside colleagues and partners at institutions such as Peking University, Tsinghua University, and HKUST has been an enriching experience that continues to deepen Strathclyde’s international outlook and impact.
Much of my work has centred on connecting people and ideas across cultures. Collaborating with Scottish and Chinese ministries, education authorities, and schools, I have sought to create opportunities for mutual learning and respect. One of the most rewarding experiences of my career was contributing to the development of Scotland’s first national qualifications in Chinese. As Development Manager and Principal Assessor for Advanced Higher Chinese with the Scottish Qualifications Authority, I have seen candidate numbers grow from fewer than 20 to over 800 annually—a reflection of the enthusiasm and talent of young learners and teachers across the country.
Beyond policy and assessment, I have tried to contribute to the wider learning community through both grassroots and institutional work. As founding chair of Lee Ren Chinese School Glasgow and Visiting Professor at Southwest Jiaotong University, I have had the privilege of supporting the next generation of educators and students. My time with the Confucius Institute for Scotland’s Schools (CISS) was especially meaningful, as our small team worked with partners to expand Confucius Classrooms from 9 to 46 hubs across Scotland. The recognition CISS received as Confucius Institute of the Year (2014) and Global Model Institute (2017) was a shared achievement—testament to the dedication of teachers, pupils, and colleagues who made these programmes thrive.
I have also enjoyed encouraging students’ confidence and creativity as head judge for the CLEC UK Mandarin Speaking Competition, and supporting emerging leaders through mentoring within the Chinese Overseas Students’ Association and across the University’s international engagement work.
Looking back, I am grateful for the opportunities to collaborate with others who share a belief in the value of language, culture, and global understanding. My work continues to focus on building bridges—between institutions, communities, and individuals—and on contributing, in whatever way I can, to Scotland’s evolving role in global education.
