Matt Horn’s Secret to Success: ‘Little but often’

Matt Horn, from Preston, England, describes himself as a journalist, not as a teacher. He believes in the importance of practical work in class. He is always moving and working on different projects yet, always with a great smile and a good anecdote to tell. Matt came to Guangzhou leaving, back home, his dream job: sports reporter; to come to a land he only knew then as ‘Canton’. Today, he is widely recognised for his ability to usethe five W’swhen doing his work. Matt hosts a radio program ‘My Guangdong’ and TV program ‘FaceTime”; promotes charity events in the city and helps reinforce the relationships between both GDUFS/UCLan and China/ the UK.

Despite his dynamic spirit and schedule, life remains full of surprises for Matt as he was nominated on the Queen’s birthday honours list in 2013 for ‘Contributions to the development of journalism in China’ and ‘Contributions to charity work in China’: “I had good teachers, so I aim to be a good professor too”-. Matt proceeded-: “I observe, absorb, process and develop ideas, knowledge and experience to give it away: I try to do the best I can in my job”.

Matt Horn at the UCLan office during our interview. Photo by Robert Zheng

Matt was told of his award from his government by the UK Consul General, Alastair Morgan, during what Matt and his wife, Alison Roberts, thought to be a casual business dinner - “I was gobsmacked; it would have never crossed my mind in a million years and I was asked to keep it quiet, until it was officially announced on the Queen’s birthday”.

"You want to make it a day to remember” - were Matt’s words. “It was a fantastic day, spent the day at Buckingham Palace, Prince Charles was the deliverer of the awards, my parents and wife were sitting in the first row. It makes you feel very humble.”

Never had Matt imagined that he would teach at GDUFS for 12 years. He just put on the boots and made a big decision, making him who he is now: teaching at GDUFS, during his lectures, instead of giving answers he prefers to ask questions and encourage students to think. “The only bad mistake you can make is the one you do not learn from”, he emphasises -“As a journalist you have to be able to ask questions and do your best in writing THE story, because that is what being a journalists is about.”

Some may wonder how he manages to do so much like a super hero. The answer lies within his nature; which is about being flexible and taking risks. He does know his limitations, but he also likes to be occupied. Perhaps the right answer isn’t ‘how’ but ‘what’: What does he do with the chance when he gets it? Matt seized it, improving himself and making his class more practical as a result. It is all because of his deep love for GDUFS and Guangzhou. “When I leave Guangzhou, I leave China”-, Matt exclaimed- “I am a Guangzhou boy, do not intend to live in any other city. Guangzhou’s got its own heart; it is indeed the city of opportunities and a place to find yourself".

During his stay in Guangzhou, he contributed a lot, firstly on the Asian Games hold in Guangzhou in 2010; reporting the opening and closing ceremonies, and some of the games. In terms of the development of this city, he suggests that Guangdong should find ways to sell itself outwardly so as to let the world have a better understanding of it. More importantly, he hopes that the government will take some measures to balance the old and the new. Appreciating the culture and history of Guangzhou, he believes that the city has got an ancient soul beyond its surface.

Since 2004, Matt has also helped support the ‘GIVES Food and Fun’ fairs and events, an organization supporting autistic children mainly, but also with orthopaedic shops, supporting children with mental issues or handicaps, and sponsoring young people through education. “My purpose is to give back to the community; I’m only a small part of GIVES. I would love to do more but need a balance with my own work.” Yet, of course: “Whenever I can do something for the foundation, I do so”. This year is also the 20th anniversary of GIVES since 1995. Matt hopes to mark the event next November with a trip for children to the Canton tower.

Matt's UCLan Award displayed at his office. Photo by Robert Zheng

In 2012, he received the prestigious Guangdong International Friendship Award for his outstanding contribution to the development of the province and he is also the recipient of an Excellence in Teaching Award from UCLan. However, little did he know how he rises so high as he has been just doing the best he can.

“I have been honoured and acknowledged for doing something that is really worthy of recognition.” Matt also holds the ‘International Friendship Award’, to which he was nominated in 2012 by GDUFS. He was the only British person included in the ceremony - “I think is great that Guangdong recognises the non-Chinese people that are helping the province. I love helping people to become, not only better journalists, but better persons.”Nevertheless, out of all the awards in the world, at the end of the day, these are only “fleeting moments. It is the day-to-day efforts that really count. It is not about donating money, is about giving a little bit of your time … but doing it often.”Looking to the future, he intends to place strong focus on being international. As the 50thanniversary of GDUFS is right around the corner, it’s a perfect coincidence that Matt will share his 50thbirthday with this university, which makes him feel close and bonded together with GDUFS.

Matt concluding elegantly our interview. Photo by Robert Zheng

Matt never worked so long as 12 years in any job before; “That tells how happy I am here”. The university gives happy memories and moments and experiences to many. While teaching, Matt stays friendly but try to put the boundary in plain view. Once his students leave and graduate, he loves to maintain contact, watch football or eat together. “Lots to thank Guangwai for, so thank you Guangwai”.