Cathay Pacific, Soong Ching Ling Foundation launch youth aviation fund

The China Soong Ching Ling Foundation and Cathay Pacific jointly launched the Aviation Dream Youth Development Fund on May 23, 2025, aiming to support youth aviation education and facilitate cultural exchange between the Chinese mainland and Hong Kong.

Shen Beili, vice chair of the China Soong Ching Ling Foundation, delivers a speech at Soong Ching Ling's former residence in Beijing, May 23, 2025. [Photo provided to China.org.cn]

Shen Beili, vice chairwoman of the China Soong Ching Ling Foundation (CSCLF), said the CSCLF continues to promote Soong Ching Ling's legacy by launching numerous public welfare initiatives. The newly established Aviation Dream Youth Development Fund in Beijing aims to provide a new platform for young people in the mainland and Hong Kong, supporting their healthy development and fostering greater exchange and growth.

She added that the fund is designed to bring together young people from the mainland and Hong Kong, giving them opportunities to participate in hands-on projects, learn about China's development, and build friendships. The goal is to promote cultural exchange, encourage national pride, and strengthen their sense of shared identity.

Zheng Jiaju, Chinese mainland director of Cathay Group, delivers a speech at Soong Ching Ling's former residence in Beijing, May 23, 2025. [Photo provided to China.org.cn]

Zheng Jiaju, Chinese mainland director of Cathay Group, said Cathay Pacific is committed to corporate social responsibility by investing in youth development and cultural exchange, and by supporting society through civil aviation.

He added that Cathay Pacific will combine its strengths in aviation with the CSCLF's expertise in youth development to create cross-regional, interdisciplinary platforms for young people from the mainland and Hong Kong, helping them pursue careers in aviation, deepen their cultural roots and reinforce their national identity.

A signing ceremony for the China Soong Ching Ling Foundation Cathay Pacific Aviation Dream Youth Development Fund is held at Soong Ching Ling's former residence in Beijing, May 23, 2025. [Photo provided to China.org.cn]

Li Anjin, deputy secretary-general of the CSCLF, and Sun Yueyi, Chinese mainland general manager of Cathay Group, signed a donation agreement on behalf of both parties. Children from Beijing's Haidian District Youth Activity Center and Shichahai Primary School performed songs and dances.

The ceremony was held at the former residence of Soong Ching Ling, a pioneering stateswoman who was named honorary president of the People's Republic of China for her lifelong contributions to the nation.

The China Soong Ching Ling Foundation Cathay Pacific Aviation Dream Youth Development Fund is the first public welfare fund established by Cathay Pacific in partnership with the CSCLF on the mainland.