Clara Fong –
Shaping the future of civic participation through policy, cultural exchange, and global engagement

I am a writer, researcher, and aspiring public diplomacy professional whose work spans continents and communities. Raised in Hong Kong, Singapore, and North America, I bring a global lens to questions of identity, democracy, and civic resilience. My writing and interests explore how youth-led movements, climate change, and cultural diasporas are reshaping traditional policy narratives—in Asia and beyond. Whether advocating at international summits or volunteering locally in Washington D.C., I am driven by a belief in pluralism, empathy, and the transformative power of dialogue.

MY STRENGTHS

Research & Analytics

Deep experience in both quantitative and qualitative research. Work spans think tanks, foundations, academia, and human-subject labs, reflecting a strong command of data-driven storytelling and policy evaluation.

Cross-sector leadership

Strong communicator and organizer. Published op-eds and led stakeholder workshops, demonstrating an ability to translate complex ideas into actionable strategies.

Equity and Inclusion

Consistent focus on racial equity, inclusive governance, and community-rooted advocacy. Aims to bring institutional insight and cultural empathy to her work.

MY EXPERIENCE

Writer/Editor

Council for Foreign Relations

August 2023Present

I develop, edit, and publish explainers and analytical articles on current foreign policy affairs in Asia and on climate change for a general membership audience. My goal is to provide objective news while offering insight and analysis

Research and Program Associate

Brennan Center for Justice

August 2021—August 2023

I conducted legal research, drafted policy recommendations, and convened virtual strategy meetings with legal, policy, and advocacy stakeholders to support democracy reform programming.

EDUCATION

Committee on International Relations University of Chicago

MA, International Relations

University of Chicago

BA, Public Policy and Psychology

INTERNATIONAL DIPLOMACY

Youth Delegate, Inclusion and Diversity

G20 Brasil 2024

Representing the U.S. Delegation for Inclusion and Diversity at the Y20, the youth engagement summit of the G20 conference

Looming over the first meeting between U.S. President Donald Trump and South Korean President Lee Jae-myung are recent tariff tensions and renewed cost-sharing discussions for their long-standing military alliance.

A BIT OF MY WORK

Scientists say governments need to act with more urgency to keep global warming in check. How much progress is possible at COP28?

Ensuring Asian Americans’ access to political participation is critical to the future of democracy.

Let’s chat!