Bridging Cultures and Strategic Problem-Solving in Action

Preserving Global Heritage: My Journey with GHF

Upon graduating from college, I had the privilege of joining the Global Heritage Fund (GHF), an organization dedicated to protecting and sustaining some of the world’s most significant and endangered cultural heritage sites in developing regions. Working closely with GHF’s Asia Country Manager and reporting to the founding trustees, I contributed to key conservation projects in Lijiang in Yunnan, and the ancient city of Pingyao in Shanxi, China - two UNESCO World Heritage sites.

Our work involved collaborating with a diverse range of partners, including local community boards, NGOs, private sector companies, and local and national governmental bodies, to execute heritage preservation and socio-economic development initiatives. These efforts not only safeguarded cultural landmarks but also fostered sustainable economies and revitalized living traditions, preserving cultural pride and richness for future generations.

Above: A traditional streetscape in Pingyao Ancient City.

Above: Lijiang Old Town and it's location.

My Contributions

Supporting Sustainable Business Models

Under the guidance of the Country Manager, I contributed to the development of business models that promoted economic growth through heritage preservation. My work involved gathering data, assisting in strategy development, and ensuring that community participation was integrated into restoration efforts and the tourism economy.

Heritage Restoration and Technical Assistance

Worked alongside local experts to ensure the conservation of courtyard homes adhered to international preservation standards; Supported the development of technical guidelines for restoration, ensuring authentic materials and techniques were employed.

Strategic Reporting and Donor Engagement 

I collaborated with the Country Manager to prepare detailed achievement reports, documenting project milestones and outcomes. These reports were instrumental in annual donor meetings, ensuring that GHF’s efforts were effectively communicated to secure ongoing funding and support.

Cross-Cultural Communication and Interpretation 

I acted as an interpreter for cross-cultural communications, facilitating collaboration between international stakeholders, local governments, and community members. This role required bridging linguistic and cultural divides to ensure alignment and mutual understanding across diverse teams.

Community Engagement and Awareness 

I assisted in organizing workshops, training sessions, and outreach programs to engage local residents in heritage preservation. My work supported efforts to build community awareness of the cultural and economic value of preserving these historical sites.

Preservation Impact 

Both projects achieved significant milestones, including the restoration of hundreds of traditional homes and courtyards in Lijiang and the revitalization of Pingyao's economy through sustainable tourism.

Above: Design of the Fanjia Jie Street Ward showcasing the Heritage Park by Shanghai Tongji University; plan and 3D rendering

In supporting efforts to balance economic development with cultural preservation, I gained invaluable experience in heritage management, witnessing how preservation can bridge tradition and progress. This experience deepened my understanding of heritage conservation and reinforced my commitment to community-driven solutions for sustainable development.