Overseas Philanthropy

Zhongming Award

A student grant founded in 1997 in China; a promise shared across the world.

The Zhongming Award is the Guoqiang Public Welfare Foundation's first overseas philanthropic initiative. It supports Lucy Cavendish College, University of Cambridge, in advancing its mission, prioritising education and financial assistance for students with the greatest need. A portion of the donation is earmarked specifically for students experiencing mental health challenges, reflecting a shared commitment to nurturing resilience. Recipients sign a pledge encouraging them to contribute to society during their studies and beyond, reinforcing a sustainable cycle of support.

Lucy Cavendish College, University of Cambridge
Why the Zhongming Award

The Zhongming Award represents far more than financial assistance; it is a vehicle for passing on enduring values. It carries the philanthropic vision conceived in 1997 into a global educational landscape, extending the spirit of the Moral Commitment — "receive support, grow, and give back" — across the world.

The Meaning of the Cambridge Gift
01

Upholding Founding Aspirations, Continuing the Family Legacy

The "Zhongming Award" inherits the name and spirit of Zhongming, bringing the family's philanthropic mission from China to the global educational arena — a landmark embodying the Foundation's enduring dedication to educational equity, youth empowerment and social responsibility.

02

Responding to the Times, Connecting Through Mutual Exchange

The Foundation holds that changemakers need global vision, ethical judgement, cultural empathy and a profound sense of social responsibility. By supporting Cambridge students' development, the initiative unlocks opportunities for young talent and equips society with a resilient, action-oriented generation.

03

Aligned Visions, People at the Centre

Lucy Cavendish College maintains a long-standing commitment to widening access for students from underrepresented backgrounds. The two institutions share a core conviction: to put people at the centre, unlock human potential and drive sustainable progress.

The Origin — 1997

The Zhongming Student Grant

Founded anonymously in 1997 by Mr Yang Guoqiang, the Zhongming Award supports outstanding underprivileged university students through a distinctive "Moral Commitment" — encouraging recipients to give back to society when circumstances permit, while nurturing positive mental well-being. Over nearly 30 years, the award has empowered more than 14,000 students from 26 universities across the Chinese Mainland. Recipients have made 1.8 million individual contributions totalling over RMB 5.2 million.

Zhongming Student Grant, since 1997
Zhongming Student Grant
Zhongming Student Grant