Chinese Youth and Women Development Organization
Our Story and Mission
The Chinese Youth and Women Development Organization (CYWDO) is a 501(c)3 nonprofit founded in 2018 by Kerry Yu and Blair Woodfield. Born from a shared vision of cultural pride and social impact, CYWDO uses fashion, art, and music as platforms to promote Chinese heritage while fostering personal growth and environmental responsibility.
Our mission is twofold: (1) to celebrate and share Chinese culture with the world, and (2) to empower young people and women—especially those from underrepresented communities—to build confidence, find their voice, and become leaders in their fields.
We champion creativity, sustainability, and self-expression. Through community programs, cultural events, and educational initiatives, we help participants explore their identity, gain real-world skills, and embrace eco-conscious living.
At CYWDO, we believe that culture is power, and that by lifting up youth and women, we can shape a more inclusive, artistic, and sustainable future.
The 8th Annual Chinese Rose Princess and Queen Gala 2025
Aug 28, 2025 - about 100 community members and special guests from across the country gathered at the beautiful Lakeside Garden to celebrate our 8th annual gala.
It was a delightful evening with sit-down dinner, music, fashion show and performance to celebrate the Chinese culture and to crown our new Chinese Rose Princesses and Queens.
Since 2021, we have partnered with Harvard University student run project called the Eleganza Fashion Show Event. Through this collaboration, we sponsor the program, and in return, they host a public speaking contest for our youth.
Each year, we organize participants into three to four age groups, starting from as young as nine years old. From 2021 through 2026, we have successfully hosted this initiative for five consecutive years, and in 2026 we will present our sixth annual public speaking contest.
Our theme focuses on environmental awareness and its connection to our daily lives, helping young participants develop strong public speaking skills and confidence. The certificates issued through Harvard University serve as meaningful recognition of their hard work, dedication, and commitment to learning.
Harvard Youth Annual Public Speaking Contest
Our Team
Blair Woodfield (President)
Kerry Yu (Director)
Maria Shanks (Secretary)
Qian Li (Treasurer)
Colleen Bourassa (Project Manager)
Jimmy Zhu (Senior Advisor)
Contact Us
To learn more about our organization and/or how to be a princess or queen.
