LGBTQIA+ rights campaigner awarded honorary degree

Manchester Met has presented an honorary degree to one of the most prominent speakers for the LGBTIQ+ community in Asia, in recognition of her achievements and contributions to charity.

Gi Chao received the award at a graduation ceremony at the Bridgewater Hall and was presented with the honorary Doctor of Business Administration (DBA).

An alumna of Manchester Met, having graduated with a BA (Hons) in Architecture in 2000, Gi’s courageous stance on LGBTIQ+ rights garnered international attention when she fearlessly challenged societal norms by publicly advocating for acceptance and marriage equality.  

As one of the most prominent speakers for the LGBTIQ+ community in Asia, she is a co-founder of Hong Kong Marriage Equality and an advisor/board member of six global organisations including Outright Action International and Out Leadership.

On receiving her honorary degree, Gi said: “It gives me tremendous pleasure to accept this award. It was 30 years ago that I received the offer to enter this vibrant university. I was eager to shine independently, unshadowed by my renowned parents 6000 miles away, and Manchester was my stage.

“Studying architecture at this university taught me about life and the benefit of the rich integration with the city of Manchester and the University. No matter what the future holds, in business, in art, as in life, the thing to do is to keep learning, build reserves, pay kindness forward, see beauty in a stranger’s eyes, and build connections.

“Congratulations to this year’s graduates and the family and friends that gave life to you and supported you on your journey.”

As well as her advocacy and campaigning for LGBTIQ+ rights, Gi is the Vice-Chairman of property investment company, Cheuk Nang Holdings Limited in Hong Kong. 

Gi is also a specialist private-sector adviser to the United Nations Development Programme’s ‘Being LGBTI in Asia’, and advises global organisations on issues of diversity, inclusion and ESG business responsibility in building social capital.

Professor Jenny Watling, Pro-Vice-Chancellor for International at Manchester Met, who presented Gi with her honorary degree, said: “Gi’s commitment to equality and social mobility has positively changed the lives of thousands of people in Asia and around the world. 

“Today, it is our privilege to honour Gi Chao as an accomplished campaigner, entrepreneur and philanthropist.”