As a civil society specialist and an independent researcher, Guangchen Yang has spent the past fifteen years engaged with civil society organisations throughout China. His experience includes collaboration with various groups, from international networks to local initiatives and grassroots movements. He has been involved in projects focusing on indigenous-led conservation efforts and the support of alternative media and advocacy groups. 

Yang earned a Bachelor's degree in Journalism and a Master's degree in Human Rights and Democratisation in the Asia-Pacific region. His master's thesis provided an analysis of the influence of LGBTQ legal advocacy on Chinese lawmakers' policy formation and legislative processes. 

At VVI, his research has been centred on the activities and dynamics within Chinese civil society organisations and the role of activists, particularly interested in the recent development of transnational activism led by Chinese activists.