Ulster University graduate who faced conversion therapy in China as child awarded Tech Student of the Year: ‘Things can and do get better'
But life in Belfast is a long way from his experiences at home before he took a leap of faith to move thousands of miles to Northern Ireland.
'I've always seen education as a pathway to opportunity and growth. Ulster University offered a welcoming environment and a reputation for supporting students from all backgrounds, which really appealed to me,' he said after graduating at the Waterfront Hall.
Yuan Zhang's introduction to Ulster University was through a joint programme with South China Agricultural University, where he completed three years of Business Management before coming to Belfast for a final year of studying Business Economics in 2018.
And that welcoming environment is something Yuan needed, having been subjected to two conversion therapies in his youth.
Making the decision to step away from his family at the age of 16 was incredibly difficult, but a kind community and the unwavering support of his husband, have allowed him to flourish both academically and personally in the decade since.
It was his husband, Gary, who also studied Computing Science at Ulster University, who encouraged him to apply. He had always been curious about technology and the role it plays in shaping the world, but Yuan didn't have a clear path into the field.
However, he says it turned out to be one of the best decisions he's ever made.
Since beginning his second round of studies at Ulster University in 2021, Yuan has accomplished a huge amount.
He has been named Tech Student of the Year 2024 by EMEEN and Invest NI, Young Person in STEM/Tech 2024 by Minorities Recognition Awards NI and Danske Bank, won Best Math for Computing Scientist Student at Ulster University by Data Intellect and achieved the Contribution to the Student Body Award 2024 by Ulster University Faculty of CEBE.
Excelling in both his studies and extra-curricular endeavours, Yuan is particularly proud of bringing DevFest Ireland 2025 to Ulster University, the first time this tech conference has been hosted in Northern Ireland.
'With the incredible support of the Faculty of CEBE and the wider local tech community, we welcomed hundreds of students and professionals to share ideas, learn, and celebrate technology together,' he added.
Alongside that, Yuan helped grow the UU Computing Society into the largest society on campus, which inspired him to take on many more community roles.
"Taking part in hackathons, and volunteering with tech communities have all made my time here incredibly meaningful', he said.
"These experiences helped me find purpose, confidence, and a deep sense of belonging.'
After celebrating graduation with Gary, his family and his friends, Yuan is planning a cycling trip around Ireland to explore different towns and enjoy the beautiful landscapes.
'It's going to be my way of recharging before my next chapter in industry ' he continued.
'I'll be returning to Liberty IT as an Associate Software Engineer, where I previously completed my summer internship and placement year.
'I'm excited to continue growing in a supportive environment that values learning and innovation.'
He said he would love to see more young people taking up the opportunities offered.
'Just go for it,' he said.
'I know that sounds cliché, but it's truly life-changing.
'When I moved to Northern Ireland in 2021, I had no job and no direction. Now, I have a career and a future I'm excited about. If you're even thinking about it, trust your instincts.
Bangor woman celebrates 100th birthday in style
'This course through Ulster University changed my life.
'Whether you're struggling yourself or supporting someone who is, please know that resilience is powerful, and things can and do get better. Lean on those who uplift you. Your story matters, and you are not alone.'
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