University of Sydney alumni honoured at ACAA awards

The Australia China Alumni Awards celebrate the work and impact of Chinese and China-based alumni of Australian universities in China. Its flagship alumni awards celebrate educational, commercial and cultural exchanges between China and Australia and help alumni to reconnect.

The announcement took place on the 27th of November in Sydney and other cities around Australia and China. Six Sydney alumni were finalists across a range of categories from research and science to relationship-building and community service, with three going on to become winners.

Our winners were recognised for influential work on COVID-19 vaccine design and natural immunity, nurturing of mutual understanding between Australia and China, and outstanding contributions to Chinese’ students understanding of Australia.

2021 winners

Alumni Award for Research and Science

Matthew McKay (PhD Electrical Engineering)

This award recognises alumni who have contributed to the development of research and science which has made a significant impact on the Australia-China community.

Award for Contributions to the Australia China relationship

Helen Sham Ho (BArts, Dipl Social Work)

This award recognises an individual or group, in any field of work, that has strengthened mutual understanding between Australia and China and thereby made an outstanding and long-lasting contribution to the relationship and the wider Australia-China community. 

Student Award for Contribution to Social Engagement and Diversity

Chunyu Zheng (BArts)

This Award recognises international and Australian students currently enrolled in any Australian institution who have made outstanding contributions to Chinese students’ understanding of Australia or to the Australian community’s understanding of international students.

2021 finalists

Steven Yu - Community Service Award

Benny Shen - Student Award for Contribution to Social Engagement and Diversity

Yang Shen - Young Australia China Alumni of the Year Award