Miao Wang, a graduate from The University of Manchester’s MSc in International Development: Public Policy and Management programme, was recently named the global winner of the Study UK Alumni Awards Social Action Award, recognising her outstanding contribution to creating positive social impact.

Miao is a marine conservation leader transforming how people engage with the ocean through science, community action and culture. As founder of Better Blue, China’s first marine conservation NGO to receive United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) Special Consultative Status in the marine sector, she has pioneered a new approach to ocean conservation that empowers citizens to drive change.

The Study UK Alumni Awards Social Action Award recognises international UK alumni who have made an outstanding contribution to society. In 2026, Miao was named one of the global winners for her work advancing marine conservation and environmental awareness in China.

After discovering a passion for diving in 2015, Miao became increasingly aware of the challenges facing the world’s oceans. Seeking practical ways to address global issues, she chose to study an MSc in International Development at The University of Manchester, where she gained the confidence and skills to turn her passion into action.

Returning to China, she founded Better Blue in 2017. Today, the organisation runs more than 200 activities annually, has engaged over 10,000 divers and volunteers, and provides critical underwater data that supports marine conservation policies. Through partnerships with major media organisations, Better Blue’s message reaches more than one billion people each year.

Miao’s achievements have earned international recognition. She has been named a United Nations Young Champion of the Earth, serves on the TED Countdown Youth Council, and is a National Geographic Explorer, championing community-led conservation on the global stage.

She credits her Manchester education as a key factor in her success: “My MSc in International Development from the University of Manchester served as the crucial catalyst that transformed my passion for conservation into a global career.”

Today, Miao continues to mentor emerging environmental leaders and advocates for community-driven solutions to global challenges.

Reflecting on her journey, she believes that meaningful change can begin with a single moment of inspiration. From one dive that sparked a passion to a movement reaching millions, her story demonstrates how education, purpose and determination can create lasting impact for people and the planet. Congratulations Miao!