Episode 12: Hongxiang Huang — Connecting Chinese Youth to the World

Hongxiang Huang graduated from Fudan University and holds an MPA in development practice from Columbia University. In 2014, he started China House in Kenya with the goal of connecting Chinese overseas investment with global sustainable development through research and community engagement. China House works closely with world-renowned global research institutions, NGOs, and private enterprises on research, conservation, education, and development projects, making an impact over 20 countries across 4 continents. In 2018, Huang was nominated by Forbes China as a “30 Under 30” in the social enterprise category. 

In today’s episode, Huang shared the story of founding China House, his work at the China Africa Project, some challenges China House has faced during the pandemic, and his hopes and plans for China House in 2021. 

Highlight

01:24 What’s Hongxiang doing in Xinjiang?

02:05 What motivated Hongxiang to start China House?

03:38 The China House program Hongxiang is “most proud of”

05:28 Common misunderstanding and stereotypes about the Chinese population

07:07 Has the pandemic heightened the tension between China and other countries? 

07:55 Where does the communication gap between countries come from?

10:50 How has the pandemic affected China House?

13:55 What and where is China House planning to continue its work after the pandemic? 

16:04 Hopes and goals for China House in 2021

19:22 Age inclusivity at China House