A Leeds Love Story: A Proposal Where It All Began
For University of Leeds alumni Jinhang Xu and Yaqi Zhang, Leeds is far more than the place where they studied – it is where their love story began, grew, and recently came full circle.
Jinhang studied MSc Global Supply Chain Management at Leeds University Business School during the 2019–2020 academic year, while Yaqi completed an MA in Communication and Media at the School of Media and Communication. Their journey together started not in a lecture theatre, but as neighbours at Unite Student Accommodation Plaza, where they first connected through an accommodation group chat. A strong friendship quickly developed into a relationship, marking the beginning of their shared Leeds story.
As international students, life and study in the UK presented its challenges. Leeds, however, became a place of mutual support, resilience and growth. Determined to improve their English proficiency, the couple even made a pact to speak only English with one another, despite both being Chinese nationals.
When the COVID-19 pandemic struck in early 2020, Leeds once again played a central role in their relationship. During the national lockdown, daily walks through Hyde Park became a comforting routine, helping them manage uncertainty and stress while strengthening their bond. By the end of their studies, Hyde Park had become a symbol of companionship and stability during difficult times.
“Our time in Leeds helped shape our relationship from youthful love into something more mature,” Jinhang reflects. “It taught us how to care for and support each other through challenges.”
After graduating, the couple returned to China and settled in Shanghai – where, by coincidence, they now work at the same company. Six years after first meeting, Jinhang knew there was only one place that felt right to take the next step.
On 19 December, during a return visit to the UK, Jinhang brought Yaqi back to Leeds University Business School for a surprise proposal in one of the Maurice Keyworth lecture theatres – a place that symbolised their academic journey and personal growth. Standing in the very environment that had shaped their student experience, Jinhang proposed, turning a space on campus into a moment they will remember forever.
“I wanted Leeds to be not just the beginning of our love, but also the place where we transitioned into lifelong partners,” he says.
During their two-day visit to Leeds, the couple revisited many of the places that defined their student years, retracing footsteps filled with memories of learning, growth and shared dreams.
Now engaged, Jinhang and Yaqi reflect on their many shared identities – neighbours, University of Leeds alumni, best friends and life partners – all made possible by their time in Leeds.
“Leeds will always hold a special place in our lives,” they say. “We feel incredibly fortunate and hope to return again in the future.”
Congratulations to Jinhang and Yaqi on their engagement.
