Hello I'm
Alex Francesco Tani
Originally from the UK, I am a Scholar at the Yenching Academy of Peking University. I have used this opportunity to gain valuable communications and development experience, both academically and professionally.


Communications, International Development, China
In my 2nd year of YCA, I spent 6 months working for development consultancy Mekong Economics, based in Vietnam and Myanmar. I am currently a Public Affairs Intern at the leading Global Communications Agency Burson.
Prior to my current studies, I spent two years working for the premier Chinese English Language Newspaper China Daily.
MSc
Economics and Management, Peking university
MSc
SOAS
BSc
Politics and International Relations, University of Southampton
Education
- MSc in International Politics at SOAS
I completed an MSc in International Politics at SOAS, University of London (2019-2020) with a Merit, focusing on the international implications of China’s rapid economic development and the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). My academic achievements and work experience led to SOAS recommending me for the Yenching Academy.
- China's international politics, East Asia
My dissertation and coursework centered on China’s international politics, East Asia, and energy security, providing me with a deep understanding of China’s global role
- Social Sciences summer school in Beijing
I attended a Social Sciences summer school in Beijing at the Capital University of Economics and Business in July 2019, which enhanced my knowledge of China’s contemporary situation and language skills
- BSc in Politics and International Relations
I earned a BSc in Politics and International Relations from the University of Southampton (2016-2019), focusing on Chinese politics and foreign policy
Relevant Experience

Mekong Economics- International Economist
Project manager of multiple research and review projects related to development programmes in Southeast Asia. These include:


Yenching Academy - Academics
My main area of study has been China’s role in international development. My primary motivation for applying to this prestigious academy …


Yenching Academy- Director of Public Relations
At the Yenching Academy (YCA) I was elected to serve as the Director of Public Relations for the Graduate Student Union.

China Daily- Editor
I edited and assisted in writing stories on international and domestic politics, business, science, culture, and entertainment for China’s leading English-language newspaper, where clarity and accuracy were crucial.
Recommendation
SOAS alumna, Alex Tani (MSc International Politics) says "| am extremely grateful to have been recommended by
‘SOAS for the program. | am honoured to be able to represent SOAS at Peking University over the next two years. |
look forward to starting the Economic and Management Masters programme at the Yenching Academy of Peking
University.
With my previous studies having focused on China's relationship with Africa, | wish to develop my understanding of
China's roles in international development and its wider relationship with the Global South. | also look to use this
‘opportunity to further my understanding of domestic economic decision making and China's political economy.
Peking University is a great place for me to practice my Chinese. | look forward to gaining insights from the
experience of fellow students from throughout the University and my Yenching Academy cohort.”
Get In Touch
Address
5 Yiheyuan Rd, Hai Dian Qu, Bei Jing Shi, China, 100871