Young China Watchers (YCW) is excited to announce the first annual Young China Watcher of the Year Award. The award seeks to recognize a young professional who has made an extraordinary contribution to the global understanding of China, be that in the realm of politics, business, academia, or civil society. The initiative aims to elevate the work of up-and-coming talent within the global community of China observers, thinkers, and doers.
This year’s winner will be honored at a celebration held on November 6, 2018 at Avenues: The World School in New York City. Our keynote speaker will be Evan Osnos (above), New Yorker staff writer and award-winning author of Age of Ambition.
Our panel of judges is a diverse group of experienced China watchers. They are (left to right):
- Duncan Clark, chairman of BDA China and author of Alibaba: The House That Jack Ma Built
- Li Xin, managing director of Caixin Global
- Kaiser Kuo, host and co-founder of the Sinica Podcast
- Shirley Lin, adjunct professor of political economy at the Chinese University of Hong Kong and a lecturer in political science at the University of Virginia
- John Holden, president and CEO of the US-China Strong Foundation
Call for Nominations
We need your help finding the brightest talent in the young China watching community!
Fill out the nomination form here.
Deadline: Friday, October 5 at 11:59 pm EDT.
FAQ
What costs will YCW cover?
YCW will cover the cost of the winner’s flights to and from New York City, lodging, and, if applicable, related visa fees.
Who is eligible?
There are no strict eligibility requirements. Nominees are not required to be actively involved in Young China Watchers.
Who is ineligible?
All former and current members of the YCW leadership team are ineligible. This includes all YCW chapter leaders, all global leaders, and all members of YCW’s Global Editorial Team. Former and current board members of the YCW are also ineligible.
Is there an age requirement?
There is no strict age limit. Because the majority of Young China Watcher members are between the ages of 25 and 40 we will be looking to honor an individual who has made extraordinary contributions to the China field and who reflects the profile and character of the YCW community. We may recognize younger or older nominees, but most finalists will fall within the age range of our community members.
Is there a profile the nominating committee and judges are looking for?
No. However, we expect our shortlisted nominees and the winner to reflect the high ethical and professional standards of the YCW community.
Please download our press release here. For further questions and interviews please contact our two members of the organizing team: Charles Patterson and Michael Laha at [email protected].
Nomination Criteria
The nominees will be assessed based on the following criteria:
- Impact of their work
- Originality of their ideas and/or courage demonstrated in the pursuit of their work
- Potential for significant future contributions to the global understanding of China
- Their embodiment of connecting and educating China-engaged young professionals, the heart of YCW’s mission
Sponsors
- Duncan Clark, chairman of BDA China and author of Alibaba: The House That Jack Ma Built
- Ken Wilcox, chairman emeritus of Silicon Valley Bank
For individuals, foundations, or corporations interested in supporting this initiative please email [email protected].


