People

Scholars, Practitioners & Cultural Contributors

IAK brings together scholars, practitioners, cultural heritage stewards, and community members from diverse cultural, academic, and professional backgrounds. They have devoted themselves to their respective fields over many years and contribute to the cultural life and practice of IAK in different ways.

Bridging Eastern and Western Wisdom

IAK Founder · Academy Curriculum & Teaching

Jian Geyang

Jian Geyang is the founder of IAK Switzerland and the creator of the IAK digital cultural platform. Growing up in Chengdu, she was immersed from an early age in the traditions of Confucianism, Buddhism, Daoism, and the Hundred Schools of Thought, which continue to influence her research and educational work today.
Over the years, she has lived and worked in China, Germany, and Switzerland, continuously exploring dialogue and exchange between different cultural traditions. Her educational approach brings together classical philosophy, self-cultivation practices, holistic living, and contemporary life sciences, emphasizing the integration of knowledge and lived experience.
Through writing, teaching, research, and intercultural exchange, she is dedicated to fostering understanding between Eastern and Western cultures and to supporting the transmission and renewal of traditional wisdom in contemporary society.
https://www.jiangeyang.com/

Entrepreneur · Advocate for Family Heritage

Mark-Marian Siegert

Mark-Marian Siegert is a German entrepreneur with a longstanding interest in family heritage, cultural traditions, and sustainable development. Coming from a German family business with a history spanning more than a century, he has developed a deep appreciation for intergenerational responsibility, continuity, and long-term thinking.

Having lived and worked across different cultural environments, he is committed to fostering dialogue and mutual understanding between Eastern and Western perspectives. His work reflects a belief that cultural heritage, family values, and innovation can together contribute to a more sustainable future.

Entrepreneur · Community Builder

Keith Nicholson

Keith Nicholson is an American entrepreneur with a longstanding interest in philosophy, cultural heritage, and personal development. Shaped by a Christian upbringing and years of study in Eastern traditions, he has explored both Western and Eastern approaches to wisdom, ethics, and self-cultivation.

Through his work and community involvement, he encourages dialogue, mutual understanding, and meaningful connections across cultures. His journey reflects a belief that continuous learning, self-reflection, and respect for diverse traditions are essential to personal growth and social harmony.

Certified Breathwork Practitioner

Mario Domig

Mario Domig is a certified breathwork practitioner, recognised by both EMR and GPBA. He also serves as the Executive Director of the International Breathwork Foundation (IBF), a global non-profit organisation with UN ECOSOC consultative status at the United Nations.
For over 30 years, Mario has been guiding individuals on their journey of self-discovery and personal growth through the practice of breathwork therapy. He is particularly dedicated to promoting confidence and inner peace within an atmosphere of compassion and appreciation.
His breathwork sessions for individual clients are typically reimbursed by most Swiss supplementary health insurance providers. His professional practice is based in Rorschacherberg, Switzerland.
https://www.atem-therapeut.ch/

Guqin Scholar · Leading Authority on Guqin Culture

Tang Zhongliu

Widely regarded as one of the foremost living authorities on the Chinese guqin, Tang Zhongliu has dedicated decades to the study, preservation, and transmission of this UNESCO-recognized cultural heritage. As a leading figure in contemporary guqin scholarship and cultural transmission, he has played a significant role in the revival and international appreciation of China's classical musical tradition.

Scholar of Culture and Civilizational Dialogue

Prof. Chengyu Xiong

Prof. Chengyu Xiong holds a Ph.D. from Brigham Young University, USA. He is Senior Professor at the Communication University of China and Director of the Institute for Cultural Development and Communication. He is one of the founding members of the School of Journalism and Communication at Tsinghua University, and has long served as a member of its Academic Committee, Director of the New Media Communication Research Center, Director of the National Center for Cultural Industries, and President of the Chinese Communication Research Association.

Closely engaged with the international academic community, Professor Xiong serves as Chinese Chair of the China–UK Creative Forum, the China–US Internet Scholars Dialogue, and the Dialogues of Ancient Civilizations (Beijing–Paris, Beijing–Jaipur, and Beijing–Athens), promoting international academic exchange and mutual learning among civilizations.

Cross-Cultural Communicator · Community Volunteer

Jingyu Dietz

Jingyu Dietz was born and raised in Beijing in a family with strong academic and medical traditions. From an early age, she was encouraged to value both personal well-being and openness to different cultures, shaping her lifelong interest in learning and intercultural exchange.

Having studied and worked in the United States and later built her life in Germany, she has experienced diverse cultural environments firsthand. Through professional work, community engagement, and volunteer service, she remains committed to fostering understanding, dialogue, and meaningful connections across cultures.

Tea Culture Advocate · Entrepreneur

Yayi Kuestermann

Yayi Kuestermann shares the art of tea and daily aesthetics as living pathways to harmony and wellbeing. A Chinese entrepreneur fluent in English and German, she is the founder of a well-known bubble tea brand in Germany. Since 2012, she has transformed from a full-time mother into a business leader, building a tea culture that combines quality, creativity, and the warmth of home. Her journey reflects resilience, cultural exchange, and the belief that it is never too late to pursue new dreams.