Charlie Gao Feng
In 1995, William Louey initiated a transformative scholarship program that would open new paths for young students from China. One of those students, Charlie, born and raised in Beijing, described receiving the scholarship as a pivotal moment in their life, something beyond the imagination of their family.
Among those students wa Charlie Gao Feng, who, over nearly three decades, has built a close friendship with Louey, often meeting in Hong Kong. Louey continued to mentor Gao Feng, sharing the philosophy that philanthropy doesn’t have to wait for wealth; rather, it’s about the willingness to support others from the heart. This guidance deeply influenced Gao’s life choices and career path.
Charlie Gao Feng was one of the first scholars selected by William Louey from mainland China in 1995. Born and raised in Beijing, Charlie has said that William Louey’s scholarship, was a pivotal moment in their life and was something that nobody in my family would even dare to imagine.
The vision that William outlined to us at the very beginning of explaining to us what he was doing, and he wanted to rebuild a family that will carry this endeavour forward.
At the time, the scholarship program was a leap of faith for both Louey and the students involved, who risked choosing a relatively unknown educational path over China’s established universities. Louey, however, believed deeply in the potential of these students, offering support to those students who demonstrated commitment and success.
Charlie has spoken about how some felt skeptical of this type of philanthropy – especially from someone who did not match what a philanthropist “looked like”. During the time of inducting Charlie into the new scholarship programme, William went to Beijing with bags full of clothing to ensure that each student had suits to attend these schools.
During his studies, Charlie initially interned at ARM and in the IT department at an investment bank, eventually landing a role at Morgan Stanley following graduation. His goal was to return to China and follow through with the promise made to William and the scholarship to return home and help more students from China and give them the opportunities that he had received.
Following this, Gao Feng pursued a career in finance, eventually founding his own investment firm in Hong Kong and China. His commitment to giving back became a a major part of his life, leading him to actively support organisations like Teach for China and to mentor young musical talent.
In 2015, Gao Feng and other former scholarship recipients formalised a “Pay It Forward” organisation in honor of William Louey. The organisation’s founding was announced during a special celebration for Louey’s 60th birthday, symbolising the enduring legacy of his generosity and vision.
Follow Charlie Gao Feng on LinkedIn here.
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