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2025 Australia China Alumni Awards Gala Dinner and Networking Event
Beijing
On 18 October 2025, the 2025 Australia China Alumni Awards Gala Dinner and Networking Event took place in Beijing, bringing together around 100 distinguished guests, partners, and alumni from political, education, business, culture, and public sectors. The evening celebrated outstanding alumni achievements and the lasting friendships that continue to connect the Australia–China community.
Event Highlights
Celebrating Excellence and Connection
In her address, ACAA Co-Chair Professor Grace Li highlighted the Association’s major achievements for 2024–2025. These included the launch of two logos to better connect alumni and current students, and official charity accreditation by the Australian Charities and Not-for-profits Commission (ACNC). The ACAA Scholarship Program attracted nearly 400 applications and recognised excellence across five categories. The year also marked the Centenary of Chinese Students in Australia, and featured a keynote address by the Australian Minister for Foreign Affairs, The Hon Penny Wong, which underscored the event’s historical significance and broad impact. The Career and Social Integration Forum expanded nationwide, and the annual Award Ceremonies in Sydney and Beijing further strengthened the Association’s reach and community engagement.
ACAA Co-Chair Grace Li
Distinguished Guests and Warm Encounters
The Gala was honoured by the attendance of representatives from the Australian Embassy in China, including James Fisher, Chargé d'Affaires; Carolyn Atkinson, Counsellor (Public Affairs & Culture); Iannis Patin, Counsellor (Commercial), Australian Trade Commission; and Alison Dell, Minister-Counsellor (Education & Research), Shiru Li, Alumni Manager; Xiaoran Sally Sun, Public Diplomacy Officer; Mavis Meng, Manager North China, CPA Australia..
Mr James Fisher commended the Australia–China alumni community for their outstanding achievements in education, research, and social contribution, emphasizing that the close collaboration between the two countries in education and culture has deepened mutual understanding and set an example for international cooperation.
Honouring Achievement
Several distinguished alumni were recognised during the Beijing ceremony for their outstanding achievements across diverse fields, including leadership, innovation, and finance：
Prof. Ning Zhou —
Medal for Contribution to Financial Service
Mr. Alastair Mah —
Alumni Enterprise of the Year Award
Ms. Mengjia Yan —
Member’s Choice Award
Mr. Frederic Li —
Research and Innovation Award
It was wonderful to have some of our Sydney honourees join the Beijing Gala — celebrating excellence, friendship, and the shared spirit of the ACAA community across two cities!
Ms. Belinda Loke —
Women in Leadership Award
Ms. Lucy Lin —
Medal for Innovation and Influence
Prof. Ranjith Pathegama Gamage —
Medal for Contribution to Australia–China Cultural Exchange
A Night to Remember
The Gala concluded with heartfelt conversations, laughter, and shared reflections — a true celebration of excellence, friendship, and connection.
Special thanks to all volunteers and supporters for their remarkable efforts and dedication in making the event a success.
Group Photo of Volunteers
