Testimonials

Kelly Zhan (12th Dialogue Delegate)

The Australia China Youth Dialogue (ACYD) provides a wonderful opportunity to connect with and be inspired by emerging leaders who are passionate about contributing to the bilateral relationship in a constructive way. The 12th ACYD coincided with historic talks in Bali and the 50th anniversary of the Australia-China relationship, underscoring the importance of the ACYD mission to promote frequent and meaningful dialogue and cross-cultural exchange. It is an honour to be joining the ACYD alumni network and I encourage those with an interest in the Australia-China relationship to apply.

Helena Chengxu Qin (12th Dialogue Delegate)

The 12th ACYD has successfully brought Australian and Chinese emerging leaders numerous miles together to celebrate the Australia-China 50 years of diplomatic relations, brainstorm emerging global challenges, spot new opportunities and plan for future success. It has also brought in inspirational leaders from the Australian China community to empower us to design for greater impact, especially in restoring social cohesion and economic prosperity post-COVID-19 recovery. This significant dialogue will no doubt enhance the fellowship between our diverse perspectives with the shared mission through mutual support and continuous connection.

Daniel Norman (12th Dialogue Delegate)

I would highly recommend the ACYD to any business leader who wants to better understand how constructive Australia-China relations relate to Australia’s ongoing economic stability and prosperity. The sessions explore much more than just bilateral trade and diplomacy. They challenge delegates to think holistically about how Australia is perceived on the global stage, and how our role and identity in Asia is changing. Humbling and insightful.

Chloe Sevil (11th Dialogue Delegate)

Participating in 2022’s Australia China Youth Dialogue was a thought provoking, inspiring experience – one that left me with a much deeper understanding of Australia and China’s important bilateral relationship. The forum created by the Dialogue organisers sits under Chatham house rules – this in turn meant the conversations we had were open and productive, touching on important areas for the relationship including trade and sustainability. I have already spoken to several friends about the Dialogue and would encourage those interested in international affairs and the Australia-China relationship to apply

Gan Jianbin (11th Dialogue Delegate)

The Australia China Youth Dialogue provides a fantastic opportunity for potential young leaders from various industries across countries to share their stories, experiences and views, it also be a bridge connecting non-government level exchange. More importantly, the ACYD community keep growing each year, greatly fostering the bilateral relationship between Australia and China. I am very proud to be one of the 11th ACYD delegates, and the broader ACYD family members

James Barklamb (11th Dialogue Delegate)

As we near the 50th Anniversary of Australia-China diplomatic relations, joining the Australia China Youth Dialogue was a reminder of the historic nature of our two country’s relationship and of the importance of young leaders striving for a positive future for our region. The passion and energy of delegates and speakers was an inspiring call to action; one that our cohort is already beginning to channel towards purpose-driven projects aimed at strengthening ties between our two countries.

Chen Zhao (11th Dialogue Delegate)

The ACYD provides young Australian and Chinese leaders a unique opportunity to discuss the most interesting and challenging themes in our bilateral relationship. The conversations between delegates and speakers across the key theme "global sustainability" in the 2022 program are super constructive and hugely inspiring. Joining ACYD and you will meet the best young talents engaging with the bilateral relationships across all fields from both countries.

Yu Tao (2019 Chinese Delegate)

Learning, analysing, and reflecting on the many vitally important issues concerning the future of mankind with a group of the best minds and souls from Australia and Greater China over four days is an experience parallel to none, and joining the wonderful ACYD alumni network is a great privilege with which come great opportunities and responsibilities for the further improvement of the Australia-China relations. The success of the ACYD is vivid evidence that sincere, constructive, and inspiring discussions can be achieved through hard work, dedication, and determination, even in a world which is increasingly influenced by the toxic politics of unilateralism and ultra-nationalism. I would unreservedly recommend the ACYD to all Australian and Chinese young professionals and emerging leaders who believe in the mission of making our world a better place.

Honor McLennan (2019 Australian Delegate)

The ACYD has distinguished itself as the preeminent leadership forum for emerging leaders in Australia-China relations and being selected as a delegate in the 2019 cohort, as ACYD marks 10 years, was a privilege. The forum expanded my understanding of the relationship, challenged my perspectives and introduced me to a network of diverse and inspiring delegates (who I now count as friends). I left the ACYD more informed, empowered and ambitious to contribute to the Australia-China relationship now and into the future.

Patrick Ingle (2019 Australian Delegate)

The ACYD gives young Australian and Chinese leaders a unique opportunity to explore some of the most interesting and challenging themes in our bilateral relationship. Many of the most engaging conversations I had were in coffee breaks or over the dinner table, where the ACYD's intensive nature really comes into its own. I look forward to ACYD's next ten years and its critical role in fostering debate between our countries.