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Daisy Yen Wu was a pioneering Chinese woman in the fields of biochemistry and nutrition. Born into a wealthy family in Shanghai in 1902, she pursued her education in the United States and became the first Chinese woman to work as an academic researcher in these fields. Wu’s dedication to education and research led her to establish scholarships and make significant contributions to the scientific community. She passed away in 1993, leaving a lasting legacy on these fields.
Flossie Wong-Staal, born Wong Yee Ching on August 27, 1946, in Guangzhou, China, was a Chinese-American virologist and molecular biologist who made groundbreaking contributions to the understanding of HIV and AIDS. Her pioneering work in cloning HIV and determining the function of its genes played a vital role in establishing HIV as the definitive cause of AIDS.
Louise Zung-nyi Loh, a Chinese mathematician, physicist, and educator, made significant contributions to her fields. Her passion for learning and dedication to her studies led her to become a respected scholar. She served as the chair of the Chinese students’ club at Wellesley College and conducted research on the effect of temperature on the absorption of fluorescein. Throughout her career, she taught mathematics and physics at various institutions in China and the United States and played a crucial role in ensuring the safety of foreign faculty during the Nanjing Massacre. Her legacy as a dedicated educator and philanthropist continues to inspire future generations.
Li Tingting, also known as Li Maizi, is a prominent Chinese activist and campaigner for gender equality, sexual harassment awareness, and sexuality. Despite growing up in a patriarchal household and facing adversity, she pursued education and became an advocate for equal rights. Her activism drew international attention and inspired others to stand up against injustice.
Lin Zongsu (1878–1944) was a Chinese suffragist and writer who played a significant role in promoting women’s rights and advocating for social and political change in early 20th century China. She was a fearless and progressive feminist, known for her influential writings and her pioneering work in women’s suffrage.
Liu-Wang Liming was a Chinese feminist, suffragette, and publisher of the Women’s Voice. Despite facing political persecution, she fought for women’s rights and education. She died in prison but was later acknowledged by the Chinese Government for her contributions on women’s issues.
Wei Tingting is a Chinese LGBTI+ and feminist activist, writer, and documentary filmmaker. She played a crucial role in coordinating productions of The Vagina Monologues and has been involved in various women’s and LGBT rights movements. Wei has dedicated her career to advocating for gender and sexual diversity, raising awareness about gender inequities, and supporting marginalized communities.
Princess Pingyang, the daughter of Emperor Gaozu, played a key role in her father’s rise to power and became the first female general of the Tang dynasty. She showed exceptional bravery and strategic prowess, gathering an army of 70,000 men, and ultimately helped establish the Tang dynasty. Despite her untimely death in 623, Princess Pingyang’s legacy endured and she remains an iconic figure in Chinese history.
Wu Qing, a Paralympic athlete from China, has left an indelible mark in the field of throwing events. With gold medals in javelin throw and discus throw at the 2008 Summer Paralympics, Wu’s exceptional talent and dedication have made her a source of inspiration for many. Her record-breaking performances and unwavering spirit have solidified her status as a dominant force in her classification, proving that physical disabilities are no obstacle to greatness.
Liao Qiuyun, a renowned Chinese weightlifter, has solidified her position as a dominant force in the weightlifting world. With impressive accomplishments such as winning gold medals in all lifts at the 2019 IWF World Cup and setting a world record at the Asian Weightlifting Championships, she has proven herself to be a formidable competitor. Liao Qiuyun’s silver medal at the 2020 Summer Olympics further cemented her status as an exceptional athlete, inspiring aspiring weightlifters worldwide.
Wu Zetian, the first and only female Emperor in Chinese history, was a powerful and influential figure during the Tang dynasty. From her humble beginnings as a concubine, Wu rose to become the de facto ruler, with an authority on par with the emperor himself. During her reign, China experienced significant growth and revitalization, leaving an indelible mark on Chinese history. However, her rule was not without controversy as she faced opposition from conservative factions who deemed her reign illegitimate.
Li Zhen (1908–1990) was the first female general of the Chinese People’s Liberation Army. Born into poverty in rural Liuyang, she showed remarkable determination from a young age. Despite facing personal setbacks, Li rose through the ranks of the Communist Party, making significant contributions to the revolution. Her bravery, leadership skills, and unwavering dedication earned her respect and admiration. Li Zhen became a symbol of women’s empowerment and continues to inspire generations to fight for gender equality.
Denise Ho Wan-see, born in Hong Kong in 1977, is a Canadian Cantopop singer and actress known for her pro-democracy and human rights activism. She made history in 2012 by publicly coming out as a lesbian, breaking barriers in the Asian entertainment industry. Despite facing backlash and being blacklisted by the Chinese government, Ho remained steadfast in her commitment to fighting for democratic rights and using her platform to advocate for equality. Her resilience and determination have made her an inspiration to many.
Small Luk, the first intersex person to openly acknowledge her biological sex characteristics in Hong Kong, has made significant contributions towards advocating for the rights of intersex individuals. Born with partial androgen insensitivity syndrome, Luk underwent a series of surgeries in her childhood to construct a urethra. However, the surgeries proved unsuccessful, leading to immense physical and emotional pain for Luk, causing her to attempt suicide several times. Luk’s journey of self-discovery and acceptance has played a vital role in raising awareness about intersex conditions and promoting the rights of intersex people.
Yu Song (Chinese: 于颂) is a renowned Chinese judoka who has achieved great success in her athletic career. Standing at an impressive height of 1.82 meters, she quickly showed promise and talent in the sport. Her achievements and contributions have led her to become a celebrated figure in the world of judo, inspiring countless individuals.
Tong Wen, a renowned Chinese judoka, became the first Chinese judoka to win Olympic gold at the 2008 Summer Olympics in Beijing. She dominated her competitors with her exceptional talent and went on to clinch gold medals at multiple World Judo Championships. Tong’s journey was not without challenges, including a doping violation and subsequent ban, but she overcame them and continues to inspire with her resilience and dedication.
Jin Xing, born in 1967 in Shenyang, China, is a remarkable Chinese ballerina, modern dancer, choreographer, actress, and the founder and artistic director of the contemporary dance company Shanghai. She is widely celebrated as a transgender celebrity whose contributions to the world of dance and her advocacy for gender equality have made her an influential figure in society.
Li Xiaomeng, known as Liooon, made history as the first woman to win the Hearthstone Grandmasters Global Finals and a BlizzCon Esports tournament. Her victory not only showcased her talent and dedication, but also led her to become an influential figure in the world of esports. Liooon’s powerful message of empowerment and inclusivity continues to inspire aspiring female gamers around the globe.
Wu Rongrong is a Chinese feminist and women’s rights activist. She was a member of the feminist collective known as the “Feminist Five” and dedicated her life to fighting for justice and equality for women in China. Despite facing numerous obstacles, Wu’s unwavering dedication to women’s rights and her resilience make her a prominent figure in the fight for gender equality.
Nellie Yu Roung Ling, also known as Nelly, was born in 1882. She was a renowned dancer and considered the first modern dancer of China. Born into an upper-class family, Roung Ling was exposed to Western education, and her passion for dance and exceptional talent made her a pioneer in the field. She became a cultural ambassador, promoting Chinese dance and culture in France, and her influence extended beyond dance as she challenged societal norms and expectations for women.
Faye Leung, a prominent figure in the world of ballet, was born on March 18, 1979, in Shanghai, China. As the only child of a writer and a former businesswoman, Faye was exposed to artistic and creative expression from an early age.
Li Yajuan, the Chinese weightlifter, had a remarkable career that left a lasting impact on the sport. Winning four consecutive World Championships and a silver medal in the Olympics, she overcame societal expectations and paved the way for future generations of female weightlifters. Her determination and resilience continue to inspire athletes worldwide.
Ding Meiyuan is a Chinese weightlifter who was born on February 27, 1979. She started weightlifting at the age of 12 and quickly found success in the sport. Ding’s greatest achievement came at the 2000 Sydney Olympics, where she won a gold medal in the weight class over 75 kg body weight. She also won the World Championship title in 2003. Ding’s dedication and talent have made her an influential figure in the world of weightlifting.
Lang Ping, also known as “Jenny,” is a prominent figure in the world of volleyball. Born on December 10, 1960, in Tianjin, China, Lang Ping established herself as one of the greatest volleyball players and coaches of all time. Her remarkable achievements both on and off the court have solidified her place in women’s sports history.
Zhang Wangli, born in 1996, is a Chinese weightlifter who has become a symbol of determination and strength in the world of weightlifting. She has achieved numerous accolades, including a gold medal at the 2018 World Weightlifting Championships and setting four world records in the 71 kg weight class. Zhang’s success and dedication have made her a role model and an influential figure in women’s history.
Cai Chang, a Chinese politician and women’s rights activist, dedicated her life to fighting for gender equality and empowering women in Chinese society. As the first chair of the All-China Women’s Federation, Cai played a crucial role in advancing women’s rights. She faced criticism for her emphasis on technological and economic progress, but her efforts laid the foundation for future advancements in women’s rights in China.
Ren Changxia was a Chinese policewoman known for her fearless dedication and commitment to serving her community. She became the first female police chief in the province of Henan and implemented successful reforms, dismantling criminal syndicates and bridging the gap between law enforcement and society. Ren’s life was tragically cut short, but her impact on the lives of Dengfeng citizens and her legacy as a symbol of perseverance and integrity continues to inspire.
Xia Peisu, known as the “Mother of Computer Science in China,” was a pioneering Chinese computer scientist and educator. She played a leading role in the development of Model 107, the nation’s first domestically designed general-purpose electronic computer. Xia’s contributions to computer science and technology in China were immense, and she inspired and mentored many students who went on to become leaders in the field. Her groundbreaking work has left a lasting impact on China’s technological development and she is revered as one of the pioneers of computer science in the country.
Wang Xiaoyun, a renowned Chinese cryptographer, mathematician, and computer scientist, has made significant contributions to the field of cryptography. Born in 1966 in Zhucheng, Shandong Province, Wang showed an early aptitude for mathematics and pursued her passion by obtaining bachelor (1987), master (1990), and doctoral degrees (1993) from Shandong University.
Yuanyuan Tan is a renowned Chinese ballet dancer best known for her exceptional talent and captivating performances as the principal dancer with the San Francisco Ballet. Born on February 14, 1976, in Shanghai, China, Tan’s journey to becoming one of the world’s most acclaimed ballerinas is truly remarkable.
Wang Yaping is the second female taikonaut and the first Chinese woman to perform a spacewalk. She achieved the longest stay in space by a female astronaut in April 2022, accumulating 197 days. Wang’s dedication to space exploration and her contributions to scientific knowledge have made her a role model for aspiring female astronauts and a symbol of progress in aviation and space science.
Tang Qunying, the first female member of the Tongmenghui, played a pivotal role in the Chinese Revolutionary Alliance and women’s rights movement in China. Her involvement in advocating for suffrage, founding the Women’s Rights Daily, and her contributions to the revolution earned her recognition from Sun Yat-sen himself and the prestigious second-class Order of the Precious Brilliant Golden Grain. Tang’s bravery and determination continue to inspire and empower women in China today.
Lao Lishi, born in 1987 in Zhanjiang, Guangdong, is a female diver from China. Her exceptional talent and determination propelled her to become one of the most celebrated divers in Chinese history. Lishi’s journey exemplifies her unmatched talent and perseverance, serving as an inspiration to athletes worldwide. She has achieved remarkable success, including Olympic gold and silver medals, and has left an indelible mark on the sport of diving.
Luan Jujie, born in 1958 in Nanjing, China, made history at the 1984 Summer Olympics as the first Chinese athlete to win a gold medal in fencing. Her remarkable achievements and contributions to the sport have had a lasting impact on both the Chinese and Canadian fencing communities.
He Bingjiao is a Chinese professional badminton player who began her career at a young age. She showcased her exceptional skills by winning a gold medal in girls’ singles at the 2014 Summer Youth Olympics and achieving success in various international tournaments. With multiple bronze medals at the World Championships, He Bingjiao continues to make her mark in the badminton world.
Li Na (born 26 February 1982) is a Chinese tennis player who made history as the first Grand Slam singles champion from Asia, male or female. Her remarkable achievements on the court, as well as her trailblazing impact on women’s tennis, have firmly established her as one of the most influential athletes in Asian history.
Sun Wen is a Chinese former professional footballer who is considered one of the all-time greats of the women’s game. She began playing football at a young age and was influenced by her father. She had an impressive career playing for Shanghai and the Atlanta Beat in the Women’s United Soccer Association. She also represented China in four FIFA Women’s World Cup tournaments and won numerous titles, including the Asian Cup. Sun’s talent and impact on the sport were recognized when she won the FIFA Female Player of the Century award in 2000.
Yeshe Tsogyal, known as the “Victorious Ocean of Knowledge,” played a significant role in Tibetan Buddhism. Born into the royal family, she showed a deep interest in spiritual practices from a young age. She became the spiritual consort of Padmasambhava and achieved enlightenment in her lifetime. Yeshe Tsogyal’s teachings emphasized compassion, wisdom, and the cultivation of inner qualities, making her a preeminent figure in Tibetan Buddhism.
Rayhan Asat is a Uyghur lawyer and human rights advocate. Born and raised in Ürümqi, the capital of Xinjiang, she comes from an academic family. Asat’s journey as an advocate for human rights began when her younger brother, Ekpar Asat, was detained in the Xinjiang internment camp system in 2016. Her relentless efforts have made her a prominent figure in shedding light on the plight of Uyghurs and other minority groups in China, leaving an indelible mark on women’s history.
Hou Zhihui, a talented Chinese weightlifter, has achieved remarkable success in her career. With numerous titles including Olympic champion, World champion, and two-time Asian champion, she has solidified her place as one of the greatest weightlifters of her time. From a young age, she displayed extraordinary potential and her perseverance led her to set eleven senior world records. Hou Zhihui’s dedication, talent, and resilience have made her an inspiration for athletes worldwide.
Liu Chunhong, a Chinese weightlifter, has left an indelible mark on the sport with her exceptional skill, determination, and strength. She has set numerous world records and secured gold medals at the 2004 and 2008 Summer Olympics. Despite being disqualified from the 2008 Olympic Games due to a doping violation, Liu’s impact on weightlifting and women’s sports cannot be overstated. She has paved the way for future generations of female weightlifters and shattered stereotypes.
Cao Lei, a Chinese weightlifter born in 1983, started her weightlifting journey at the age of 11. She achieved remarkable success throughout her career, winning multiple gold medals and setting records in international competitions. Her Olympic gold medal in the women’s -75 kg weightlifting category at the 2008 Beijing Olympics was dedicated to her late mother and the people of China.
Wang Zhouyu, born in 1994 in China, is a renowned weightlifter who has achieved international recognition for her exceptional skills and accomplishments in the sport. From an early age, she showed great potential and passion for weightlifting, eventually becoming a dominant force in her weight category. Her success not only makes her a celebrated athlete but also a role model for future generations, inspiring them to pursue their dreams and break gender barriers.
Ao Hui (born 20 April 1997) is a Chinese weightlifter who has made a significant impact in the world of weightlifting. With her exceptional skills and determination, she has emerged as a leading athlete in her field. Born in China, Ao Hui discovered her passion for weightlifting at a young age. She began her training under the guidance of experienced coaches who recognized her potential. In 2018, Ao Hui had the opportunity to showcase her abilities at the World Weightlifting Championships where she secured a gold medal in the 87 kg weight category. Her success not only serves as a testament to her individual abilities but also inspires aspiring weightlifters around the world. Ao Hui has contributed to the advancement of women’s sports, breaking stereotypes and encouraging future generations of female weightlifters to pursue their dreams.
Tang Gonghong, born in Fushan, Yantai, Shandong in 1979, is a prominent Chinese weightlifter known for her exceptional strength and determination. Her remarkable success includes winning gold medals in both the Afro-Asian Games in 2003 and the Summer Olympics in 2004. Tang’s journey in weightlifting has not only reshaped perceptions of women’s capabilities but has also paved the way for future generations of female weightlifters.
Zhou Lulu, born in 1988, is a Chinese weightlifter who has achieved remarkable success in her sport. With her exceptional strength and determination, she has set world records, won gold medals, and inspired countless athletes. Zhou’s journey, filled with challenges and triumphs, serves as a testament to the power of passion and perseverance. Her legacy as a trailblazer in women’s weightlifting will continue to inspire generations to come.
Li Wenwen is a renowned Chinese weightlifter who has made significant contributions to the field of weightlifting. With numerous titles and records, including an Olympic gold medal, she continues to inspire individuals worldwide with her exceptional talent, dedication, and unwavering spirit.
Yang Jun, born in Beijing in 1988, is a prominent figure in the world of water polo. Her journey is marked by determination, resilience, and an unwavering passion for her craft. She has made remarkable contributions to the sport as a goalkeeper, leaving an indelible mark on Olympic water polo history.
Liu Shiwen, born on April 12, 1991, is a Chinese table tennis player renowned for her remarkable skills and achievements in the sport. With an impressive record of victories and consistent top rankings, she has become one of the most notable figures in international table tennis.
Ding Ning, born in China in 1990, is a former Chinese table tennis player who has left an indelible mark on the sport. With numerous achievements, including winning gold at the 2016 Summer Olympics and multiple World Table Tennis Championships, Ding’s talent and dedication have solidified her status as a legend in the sport. Her inspiring journey continues to inspire aspiring athletes worldwide.
Li Xiaoxia, born on January 16, 1988, in China, is a Chinese table tennis Grand Slam champion. She had an illustrious career in the sport, becoming one of the most successful female table tennis players of her time. Li Xiaoxia’s dedication, skill, and relentless pursuit of excellence have made her an inspiration for aspiring table tennis players worldwide.
Deng Yaping, the Chinese table tennis player, is renowned for her exceptional skill and determination. With eighteen world championships, including four Olympic championships, she is hailed as one of the greatest players in the history of the sport. From a young age, Deng displayed her talent, winning her first national championship at just 13 years old. Despite her height, she overcame initial challenges to become a dominant force in table tennis, achieving unparalleled success and inspiring young athletes. Her legacy in the sport continues to inspire generations.
Wang Nan, born on October 23, 1978, in Fushun, Liaoning, is a highly accomplished female Chinese table tennis player. With her exceptional talent and remarkable career, Wang has earned her place as one of the most successful female table tennis players in history. Her unparalleled success, including winning four gold medals at the 1998 Asian Games and two gold medals at the 2000 Summer Olympics, solidifies her status as a true champion in the sport.
Zhang Yining is a retired Chinese table tennis player who is considered one of the greatest female players in the sport’s history. She has won gold medals in the Table Tennis World Cup, the Table Tennis World Championships, and the Olympic Games. Zhang dominated the sport from 2003 to 2009, earning her the nickname “The Yellow Beast.” Her aggressive attacks and precise shots made her a formidable opponent on the table tennis circuit. After retiring, Zhang pursued higher education in the United States and continues to be involved in the development of young players.
Huang Bamei, a Chinese pirate leader, rose to become a naval commander during the Second Sino-Japanese War and Chinese Civil War. Despite a challenging upbringing, she grew to earn a reputation as a fearsome pirate leader. Huang displayed resourcefulness and the ability to navigate complex power dynamics. She shifted allegiances during the war but eventually aligned herself with the Chinese army. After the war, she returned to piracy before joining a women’s organization and dedicating herself to humanitarian efforts. Huang’s story showcases her resilience and adaptability in navigating political landscapes.
Zheng Yi Sao (1775–1844), also known as Ching Shih, was a Chinese pirate leader who commanded a fleet of 400 junks and between 40,000 and 60,000 pirates. Known for her fierce attacks and successful looting, she challenged gender norms and became one of history’s most successful pirates. After negotiating a surrender in 1810, she retired and lived a peaceful life until her death in 1844. No official awards or recognitions have been documented for Zheng Yi Sao.
Mabel Ping-Hua Lee, born in 1896 in Guangzhou, China, was a pioneering Chinese-American women’s rights activist and minister. Raised in New York City, Lee became the first Chinese woman in the United States to earn a doctorate in economics from Columbia University. She made her mark as a prominent figure in the suffrage movement and later dedicated her life to advocating for Chinese immigrants and women in her role as a minister. Lee’s dedication and resilience continue to inspire generations fighting for equality and justice.
Wang Zhenyi, an extraordinary woman of 18th century China, defied societal constraints to become a renowned scientist. She excelled in astronomy, mathematics, and poetry, making groundbreaking discoveries and contributions despite her short life. Her deep understanding of celestial phenomena and innovative solutions in mathematics showcased her brilliance. Wang Zhenyi’s accomplishments continue to inspire and pave the way for future generations.
Chen Xiefen, born in 1883 in Hengshan, Hunan Province, was a Chinese feminist, revolutionary, and journalist. She is widely recognized as one of the first progressive Chinese women to use the press as a tool to advocate for women’s rights. Throughout her life, Chen championed women’s education, called for gender equality, and advocated for economic independence for women.
Huixing (1871–1905) was a remarkable figure during the Qing dynasty, known for her pioneering efforts in education and activism for women’s rights. Born into the illustrious Gūwalgiya clan, an ethnic Manchu family, Huixing’s upbringing provided her with a unique perspective on society and its expectations for women.
He Xiangning was a feminist, politician, painter, and poet who played a crucial role in advocating for women’s rights and political reform in China. Born into a wealthy family in Hong Kong, she defied traditional customs and fought for women’s rights from a young age. She supported her husband’s education and made significant sacrifices for their shared vision. She became involved in the Chinese revolution, joined Sun Yat-sen’s anti-Qing movement, and held various high-ranking positions in the People’s Republic of China. He Xiangning’s contributions to gender equality and Chinese society firmly establish her as a prominent figure in history.
Mao Hengfeng, born in 1961, is a prominent women’s rights and human rights activist in China. Despite facing immense challenges, including detention and forced abortions, Mao’s unwavering determination and courage have made her a symbol of resilience and defiance in the face of oppression. Her activism has inspired countless others in the fight for gender equality and human rights.
Lü Jinghua, born in Chongqing in 1960, was a Chinese dissident and activist who played a crucial role in the Tiananmen Square protests of 1989 as a key member of the Beijing Workers’ Autonomous Federation. Her dedication to democracy and freedom led her to become an influential figure in shedding light on human rights abuses in China, making her a symbol of resistance and a champion for change.
Wang Huiwu was a prominent social reformer and women’s rights activist in China. She played a vital role in the Chinese Communist Party as a women’s organizer, and was known for running the first Communist-sponsored journal featuring articles written by women. Wang’s dedication to women’s emancipation and her role in early CCP years have solidified her place in history as a pioneering feminist and advocate for social change.
Xiang Jingyu, born on September 4, 1895, in Xupu, Hunan province, was a pioneering member of the Chinese Communist Party and a prominent figure in the women’s movement in China. Despite her untimely execution by the Kuomintang government in 1928, she left a lasting legacy of dedication to Marxism and the advancement of women’s rights.
Zheng Churan is a prominent Chinese women’s rights activist and feminist, known for her unwavering commitment to gender equality. As one of the key members of the Feminist Five, she organized events and advocated for change in the face of societal discrimination. Zheng’s activism has earned her international recognition, including being named one of the BBC’s 100 Women in 2016. Her work extends beyond activism, as she also operates an online store that empowers women through fashion. Zheng’s dedication and bravery make her a role model for women in China.
Ani Pachen (1933 – 2002) was a Tibetan freedom fighter and activist who played a significant role in the Tibetan resistance against the Chinese occupation. Captured and imprisoned for over two decades, she remained a symbol of resilience and hope. Pachen’s life and accomplishments continue to inspire and serve as a testament to the indomitable spirit of the Tibetan people.
Kang Keqing (1911-1992) was a prominent politician and the wife of Zhu De, one of the founding fathers of modern China. Born into a fishing family, she overcame adversity and dedicated her life to championing gender equality and fighting for the rights of female laborers. Kang played a crucial role in the Chinese revolution, leading the Luotangwan Village Women’s Association and serving as a source of inspiration for countless women. Her legacy of strength and dedication to the Communist revolution continues to be celebrated.
Sun Yiwen is a highly skilled and determined Chinese fencer. With her exceptional talent and dedication, she has achieved numerous accolades throughout her career. From winning gold medals at the Asian Games to securing a bronze medal at the 2016 Olympics, Sun’s resilience and ability to overcome challenges make her an inspirational figure in the world of fencing. In 2021, she made history by winning an electrifying final and securing her first Olympic gold medal at the Tokyo Olympics.
Guo Jingjing, a retired Chinese diver, is a multi-time Olympic gold medalist and world champion. Known as “The Princess of Diving,” she achieved remarkable success in the 3-meter springboard event, winning five consecutive World Championships. Despite setbacks and a ban from the national team, Guo’s dedication and talent solidified her place in diving history and made her an inspiration to aspiring athletes worldwide.
Fu Mingxia is a retired Chinese diver known for her incredible achievements in the sport. She became the youngest diving champion in history at the age of 12 when she won the platform-diving world championship. Fu went on to win multiple Olympic gold medals and dominate the sport in the 1990s. Her talent, determination, and resilience broke barriers for women in diving and continue to inspire young athletes today.
Zhou Jihong, born in Wuhan in 1965, is a Chinese diver who won the first gold medal for Chinese diving. Her most notable achievement came in 1984 during the Summer Olympics in Los Angeles, where she became the first Chinese diver to win a gold medal. Zhou’s influence extended beyond the pool, as she guided and inspired a new generation of divers as the team leader and played a crucial role in the Chinese diving team’s outstanding performance in multiple Olympics.
Gao Min, the renowned female Chinese diver, started her journey in aquatics at the young age of four and went on to become one of the most dominant divers in history. With a string of victories in major international competitions and an Olympic gold medalist title, Gao’s remarkable career and dedication to inspiring others have firmly established her as an icon in the diving community.
Phanthog, a Tibetan mountaineer, made history with her remarkable achievements on Mount Everest. Born into a serf family in rural Tibet, her life was marked by hardships. She became the first Chinese woman to conquer Everest, ascending via the treacherous North Face route. Phanthog’s dedication to mountaineering and advancing scientific understanding was evident during her ascent, despite losing three toes to frostbite. Her legacy as a pioneering and inspirational figure lives on.
Chen Yufei, born in 1998, is a Chinese professional badminton player who has made a significant impact in the world of badminton and is considered one of the top players in the sport. She has achieved impressive victories and reached the top ranking in the BWF World Ranking, earning her admiration and respect from badminton enthusiasts worldwide.
Liu Yang, the first Chinese woman to venture into space, made history on June 16, 2012. With her remarkable journey, she not only marked a major milestone in China’s space exploration program but also inspired girls and women worldwide. Liu Yang achieved another milestone on September 1, 2022, when she conducted her first spacewalk, becoming the second Chinese woman to accomplish this feat.
Chen Xiexia, born in Panyu, Guangzhou, Guangdong in 1983, left an indelible mark on weightlifting. Her career highlights included winning gold medals at the World Weightlifting Championships and representing China in the 2008 Summer Olympics. Despite a doping violation that resulted in the stripping of her gold medal, Chen’s legacy as a trailblazer for Chinese weightlifting and her contributions to the sport will always be remembered.
Qiu Hongmei, the Chinese weightlifter, was born on March 2, 1983. Her exceptional talent and determination in the sport of weightlifting became evident during the 2006 World Weightlifting Championships, where she won the gold medal in the women’s -58 kg class. Qiu’s remarkable achievements and record-breaking lifts have solidified her as a legend in women’s weightlifting.
Mu Guiying is a legendary heroine from ancient China’s Northern Song Dynasty. Known for her bravery, resilience, and unwavering loyalty, she has become a cultural symbol of a steadfast woman. From a young age, Mu Guiying practiced martial arts and became a formidable warrior. Her story of protecting her fortress and saving her husband has solidified her place as one of China’s most celebrated heroines.
Guo Yue is a Chinese table tennis player and the 2007 women’s world champion. She emerged as the women’s singles champion at the 2007 World Table Tennis Championships in Zagreb, Croatia, defeating her compatriot Li Xiaoxia in the final match. Despite facing challenges and controversy in her career, Guo Yue’s achievements and attacking style have made her an influential figure in women’s table tennis in China.
Bow-sim Mark, born in 1942 in Guangzhou, Republic of China, is a Chinese martial arts grandmaster. She trained in t’ai chi ch’uan and Northern Shaolin under Fu Wing Fay, becoming a master of the Fu Style Wudangquan. Mark founded the Chinese Wushu Research Institute in 1976, popularizing the term Wushu outside of China. A versatile talent, she excelled as a competitor, instructor, and performer, leaving an indelible impact on the world of martial arts.
Ma Yanhong, born in Beijing, China in 1964, is widely recognized as the first Chinese gymnast to achieve a gold medal at both the World Gymnastics Championships and the Olympic Games. Her indomitable spirit and groundbreaking achievements have left an enduring mark on the world of gymnastics.
Ngawang Sangdrol, born in Lhasa, Tibet in 1977, became a political prisoner at the age of 13 for peacefully protesting against the Chinese occupation of Tibet. Her determination and commitment led to repeated extensions of her prison sentence, ultimately reaching 23 years. Despite harsh conditions and abuses, Ngawang remained steadfast in her belief in Tibet’s freedom, reflecting her resilience as an inspiration to many.
Ng Akew, a Chinese opium smuggler and house owner in Hong Kong, became entangled in controversy as she played a pivotal role in a pirate scandal in 1849. Despite being a Tanka slave of American opium smuggler James Bridges Endicott, Ng Akew showed resilience and resourcefulness in the face of adversity. Though acquitted of the charges, her involvement with piracy remains etched in Hong Kong’s collective memory. Her journey from a Tanka slave to a prosperous property owner serves as a testament to her determination and resilience in a male-dominated world.
Lo Hon-cho, a 20th-century Chinese pirate, inherited her husband’s fleet after his death and became a feared and ruthless pirate leader. Her raids targeted the southern region of China, particularly the vicinity of Beihai, where she gained a terrifying reputation. Despite briefly allying with the Chinese military, her career came to an end when she was caught off guard by a warship. The exact fate of Lo Hon-cho remains a mystery, but her legacy as a powerful pirate leader and her influence on other women pirates has endured.
Mother Lü, the first female rebel leader in Chinese history, rose to prominence during the Xin dynasty. Her rebellion against the oppressive government played a significant role in the downfall of the Xin dynasty and the restoration of the Han dynasty. Despite her untimely death, Mother Lü’s legacy as a brave and determined leader continues to inspire generations.
Wu Shuqing, a Chinese feminist and revolutionary, formed and led an all-female rebel army during the Xinhai Revolution in 1911. Despite initial opposition, Wu’s determination and leadership skills led to the formation of the Women’s Revolutionary Army. She played a significant role in the Battles of Hankou and Nanjing, showcasing her capabilities as a commander and contributing to the fight for national liberation. However, little is known about her life after the revolution.