A recent graduate from Georgetown University in Qatar (GU-Q), Brian Cody Wibowo, has earned a place in the Yenching Scholars Program 2025. This elite academic program is hosted by Peking University in China. It is one of the world’s most selective postgraduate initiatives, with an acceptance rate below 3%.
Brian, who comes from Sumatra, Indonesia, was chosen for his exceptional academic achievements. He graduated cum laude with a degree in International Economics. During his time at GU-Q, he contributed to global policy research and student-led advocacy.
While at Georgetown, Brian conducted field research in Malaysia and Indonesia. He studied Chinese clanhouses and their impact on community identity during colonial rule. Later, he presented this work at Yale University’s Undergraduate Research Conference. Impressively, he received second place for humanities research.
In addition, Brian co-authored GU-Q’s first AI ethics policy. He worked alongside peers to ensure fair and responsible use of AI on campus. His leadership extended further when he joined the U7+ Alliance of World Universities. There, he helped develop proposals on equity for international students.
Brian’s commitment to change also reached his home country. In Sumatra, he co-founded a grassroots project focused on food security and disability rights. The team built food banks and ran mobile clinics across more than 30 villages. They also launched education programs for children with disabilities.
Moreover, Brian engaged in international forums. He joined the Doha Debates Global Ambassador Program and the World Economic Forum’s Global Shapers. These platforms allowed him to push for reforms on climate justice and labor rights.
Although he received offers from Columbia, Brown, and Sciences Po, Brian selected the Yenching Scholars Program 2025. He explained that China’s role in Southeast Asia inspired his choice. At Peking University, he plans to study how Chinese diaspora and colonial legacies shape modern development.
He emphasized that Georgetown encouraged him to ask deeper questions and pursue big ideas. For Brian, the next step is not just about research. It is about contributing to a fair and connected world.
With the Yenching Scholars Program 2025, Brian aims to expand his impact across borders. His journey reflects the growing link between academic leadership and global change.
