Mengti Gu

Mengti Gu is a passionate social innovator committed to advancing child development and well-being. Beginning her career as a psychotherapist in a renowned psychiatric hospital in China, Mengti observed significant service gaps and enduring stigma surrounding children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Recognizing that the issue extended beyond healthcare, she embarked on a journey across private and public sectors to enhance access, quality, and equity of care services for children and families facing developmental and mental challenges.

Mengti has witnessed the transformative power of collaboration across sectors to amplify the quality of care and support provided to children most impacted by systemic poverty and racism. She established a network of Mandarin-speaking counselors worldwide, pioneering the culturally sensitive counseling and psychoeducation services for Chinese overseas students. Additionally, Mengti initiated a groundbreaking farm-based enrichment program in collaboration with local partners, offering outdoor relief, educational, and employment opportunities for children and youth with ASD in China. These initiatives have strengthened her commitment to a holistic approach to child development and optimal growth.

Mengti earned her BS in Psychology with honors from The Australian National University and an MPH in Health Management from Harvard T.H.Chan School of Public Health. Prior to working with TPS, she was honored as a 2022 Social Innovation and Change Initiative Fellow at Harvard Kennedy School.