The Global Figures Answering China’s Orchid Call

Established by the China International Communications Group in 2022, the Orchid Awards derive their name from the flower's traditional symbolism of integrity and goodness. This year, the selection process highlights individuals whose professional expertise has evolved into a long-term engagement with China. Among the finalists is Jean-Marie Gustave Le Clézio, the Nobel Prize-winning author who began studying classical Chinese texts in the 1970s and later taught at Nanjing University. His literary work, including his focus on Tang Dynasty poetry, has served as a conduit for bringing Chinese classics to French-speaking audiences.

In the realm of sports, Alyson Annan, head coach of the Chinese National Women’s Field Hockey Team, has been recognized for integrating advanced tactical methods with grassroots outreach. Her work extends beyond the Olympic stage to local schools in Guangdong. Similarly, the project led by Fatma Al Bastaki has expanded Chinese language education across 179 schools in the United Arab Emirates. Having supported 73,000 students over four decades, her initiative reflects the broader, sustained nature of the cultural ties the awards seek to celebrate. With candidates now spanning 24 countries, the Orchid Awards have evolved from a niche recognition into a central component of China's international engagement strategy, as formalized in the 15th Five-Year Plan.