Winni Weng

Activist, Artist, Journalist

Winni Weng is a dedicated student and passionate advocate for the preservation of Jian ware, an ancient Chinese ceramic tradition. As a sophomore at George School, Winni’s commitment to bridging cultural heritage with contemporary perspectives shines through in her work. Growing up in Shanghai, where her family has been crafting Jian ware for generations, she carries a deep-rooted connection to this endangered art form. Winni is also a dynamic leader and organizer for TEDxYouth at George School, where she collaborates to curate and facilitate impactful conversations about meaningful change. Outside of her academic pursuits, Winni serves as the deputy editor for Curious George news, is a varsity cheerleader, and actively participates in ceramics, all while passionately advocating for the preservation of ancient craftsmanship. Winni’s work aims to connect traditional artistry with modern understanding, ensuring that the legacy of Jian ware is cherished for generations to come.

I’m passionate about preserving the history of Jian ware, a traditional Chinese ceramic art that’s at risk of fading away. Through my work, I want to keep its unique craftsmanship alive and help others understand its cultural value. I believe in learning from challenges and finding new ways to keep traditions like Jian ware relevant for future generations. My goal is to inspire others to appreciate and preserve cultural heritage.

“Nine out of ten attempts failed, but good things also came about through serendipity.” This quote speaks to my journey in preserving Jian ware, where I’ve faced many challenges but also found unexpected successes. Each setback has taught me something valuable and helped me grow. I believe that with persistence and creativity, even failures can lead to important discoveries. I’m here today to share how embracing mistakes and staying adaptable can help turn challenges into meaningful contributions to our world.

Art History, Cultural Heritage Preservation, Leadership, Student Journalism