I explore how hidden histories move from archives into public consciousness through research, writing, public speaking, and performance.

Cassie Zheng

Public speaker

Athlete

Scholar

Performer

Performer

Public speaker

Scholar

I research colonial history with a focus on language, movement, and cultural survival, examining what remains undocumented, cut-short, or carried quietly outside institutions.

Colonial Legacies: The Impact of European Colonialism on National Identity in Latin American and Caribbean Pageants

A historical analysis of how European colonial legacies shaped beauty pageants in Latin America and the Caribbean, influencing gender roles, racial hierarchies, and national identity. Abstract: The Spanish coloniz

Hidden in Plain Sight: The Ethiopian Tabot and the Ghost of the Empire

An examination of how the Ethiopian Tabot came to Westminster Abbey, and what its presence reveals about colonial power, religious authority, and the ethics of restitution. Abstract Twice every week, students at Wes

Silenced Steps, Unbroken Spirits: Dance as Archive of Colonial Violence and Decolonial Resurgence

An analysis of how British colonial authorities regulated Indigenous African dance—and how movement became a site of resistance, memory, and cultural resurgence.

Salvation or Subjugation: Protestant Missionaries and Chinese Prostitution in Imperial Qing China

A study of how Protestant missionaries reshaped perceptions of prostitution in Qing China, reinforcing gender hierarchy through a fusion of Victorian and Confucian moral frameworks. Abstract During the 19th century,

The Economics History of Nunneries and Convents

A reexamination of European nunneries as economic and social institutions, highlighting nuns’ overlooked contributions beyond religious devotion. Abstract: Nuns dedicated their lives to the c

Divine Protection and Natural Harm: Theological Interpretations and the Challenge of Assigning Responsibility

An exploration of how religious and philosophical traditions grapple with the paradox of divine protection in the face of natural suffering. Abstract The theological dilemma of tha

Recognition/Awards:

Westminster School History Academic Prize
National History Day (Performance Category), International First Place
New York Times Student Review Contest, Global Winner
Northeastern University Essay Competition, Finalist
7th International Conference on Humanities Education and Social Sciences & CPCI publication
Young Philosophers Conference publication

Leadership

I lead by creating spaces where people feel heard, included, and confident enough to step forward, turning dialogues into actions.

Westminster International Student Committee

I promote cultural societies and social events such as the Boarders Mocktail Gathering and pizza night.

Performer: Thespian

In London, I opened up a new life pathway through drama, exploring the depths of creativity and expression. Theater is my way to explore how stories are carried through bodies, not just texts.

Thunderstorm Bilingual Play

Behind the curtain, there are two worlds. Onstage, they become one. I am honoured to bring this story to life in my two mother tongues: Mandarin and English.

I choreographed scenes and directed performances including The Country Wife & The Assassins. I also assisted in script writing and background research of the play Master Harold and the Boys. Lastly, I performed in Of Mice and Men, The Visit, & Bilingual Play.

As a debater and public speaker, I'm interested in how ideas move, not just through argument, but through voice, presence, and repetition.

Public Speaker & Debater

Westminster School Debate Team Captain

As the lead sixth form speaker at Westminster, I lead debate trainings for Year 9s twice weekly to introduce Year 9 students to debate.

I realised Westminster’s academic rigour produced intellectual diversity, but lacked structured spaces for ideas, I founded Westminster’s Public Speaking Society.

Now, I coach the winners in the English-Speaking Union National Competition and other international competition like Re:Solved PS competition.

Recognitions & Award:

38th Annual Stanford Invitational (Original Oratory Category), International Bronze
2023 Asian Pacific Public Speaking Championship, Overall Winner
2022 TOC winner
2023 Oldham bronze
2024 GBA semifinalist.

Swimming taught me to lead with steadiness, hold space for others, and trust that courage is contagious when building a community.

Athlete: Swimmer

Westminster Swim Team Capatain 25-26

As one of the only two girls on the team, I was chosen as the team captain to lead trainings and organise inter-school galas and house swimming events.