Eight young leaders, including two from China, were selected from nearly 13,000 candidates on Monday to receive international scholarships, for their impact in and contributions to addressing pressing global challenges such as climate change, gender equality, and universal education. 

The CUSEF x One Young Leaders Scholarship, was initiated and sponsored by the China-United States Exchange Foundation (CUSEF), a non-governmental organization dedicated to fostering trust between the world’s two leading economies, in collaboration with One Young World, an influential global community for young leaders.

“We are hugely encouraged that 12,991 applicants saw the value in a scholarship program that aligns with a critical moment for US-China relations. It builds on CUSEF’s track record as a recognized leader in education and culture, having facilitated the exchange of more than 2,000 students between the two countries,” said James Chau, CUSEF president.

Ma Yixuan, one of the Chinese recipients of the scholarships, gained recognition as an accomplished scholar and consultant at the UN Global Compact Network Canada, where he was a driving force for sustainable transformation at a national level

“Today, we renew our commitment to improve the human condition—by harnessing the talent of exceptional young people who are turning challenges into opportunities. Together, we are moving closer to a better tomorrow.”

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The list of scholarship recipients was revealed by the two organizations following a five-month selection process. Three of the eight winners are from the United States, two come from China, and one apiece from the United Kingdom, Colombia, and the Netherlands.

“One Young World’s partnership with CUSEF is imperative to our joint effort to build a generation of leaders who are dedicated to strengthening ties between the US and China, which is particularly significant in today’s context of growing tensions,” said Ella Robertson McKay, One Young World managing director.

“We’re excited to welcome CUSEF delegates to the 14th One Young World Summit in Montréal this September to foster collaboration between like-minded young activists and global leaders.”

Ma Yixuan, one of the Chinese recipients of the scholarships, gained recognition as an accomplished scholar and consultant at the UN Global Compact Network Canada, where he was a driving force for sustainable transformation at a national level.

With a background spanning graphic design, video production, and experience in the private and public sectors, Ma has crafted compelling narratives that leave a lasting impact.

Daniel Tian, another Chinese awardee, is currently pursuing an engineering and business degree at the University of Pennsylvania.

As the founder of the MEGA Hackathon League, an alliance of college and high school students from around the globe, Tian is committed to addressing the United Nations’ global goals and enhancing human development through collaborative initiatives.

All eight scholars will join a 12-month program and a series of CUSEF scholar sessions to forge lifelong connections and expand their global perspectives.

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The young leaders will become part of the One Young World community and attend the One Young World Summit 2024 in Montreal, Canada, in September.

The summit, which brings together over 2,000 young leaders from across the globe, is dedicated to accelerating social impact.

As recipients of the scholarship, the awardees will receive complimentary accommodation, return travel to Montreal, ground transportation, and meals during the event.