The Dr. Paul Evans Research Prize in Canada–Asia Relations Policy has been made available through a gift from Dr. Paul Evans and Catherine Evans. Two prizes of $7,500 each will be awarded annually for outstanding graduate students engaged in policy-related research on Canada–Asia relations. Eligible students will have written an exceptional paper and pursued activities that contribute to a broader and deeper understanding of Canada–Asia relations in both Canadian and global contexts.
Dr. Paul Evans is a Professor Emeritus in the School of Public Policy and Global Affairs, specializing in Asian and trans-Pacific international relations. He has held academic and leadership roles at institutions across Canada, the U.S., and Asia, including York University, Harvard, UBC, National University of Singapore and the University of Hong Kong. Dr. Evans established this prize with the hope of advancing study in the field and to support UBC’s ongoing visibility and engagement in Asia Pacific-focused research.
Inaugural 2026 Prize Recipients
Ananya Huria (MPPGA candidate, Class of 2027) has a strong background in strategic communications, tech and media where she has excelled at translating complex content into accessible insights. Currently she’s researching Canada’s foreign trade and technology policies as part of the Master of Public Policy & Global Affairs program. Her paper takes a closer look at Canada’s ability to deliver on the promises outlined in the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) with India.
Xian Kostyrko (MPPGA alumni, Class of 2026) is committed to innovation within Indigenous empowerment and Canada-Asia policy. As a Māori-Canadian, Xian’s work bridges Indigenous diplomacy, Asia-Pacific strategy, and pragmatic trade policy, building on an ever pivoting policy skillset. His paper examines how Canada can re-align its approach to Asia by forging deeper Indigenous partnerships within Global Affairs Canada (GAC).
Xian Kostyrko, Kai Ostwald and Ananya Huria at the 2026 IAR Open House following the award announcement
