On 9 February 2025, I was invested as a Knight Officer (KOR) of the Order of the Knights of Rizal in a distinguished ceremony held in Manila, Philippines, a moment I will carry with me for the rest of my life.

The Order of the Knights of Rizal, established in 1911, is the sole order of knighthood in the Philippines, officially recognised under Republic Act 646 as an official award of the Republic. It is also the oldest order of knighthood in Asia. Named after Dr. José Rizal, the Philippines’ national hero, a polymath, physician, and writer who gave his life in the pursuit of justice, freedom, and the dignity of his people, the Order promotes patriotism, internationalism, civic virtue, and social discipline. To be associated with his name, and with the values his Order represents, is not something I take lightly.

Why This Recognition Matters

The knighthood was conferred in recognition of contributions to international relations, philanthropic work, and cross-cultural collaboration, values that have defined much of my life outside the office, and increasingly within it too.

Since relocating to South China in 2005, I have worked to build something that goes beyond commercial success. Through C2W Group and Shield Works, I have spent two decades demonstrating that British business in China can be done with integrity, transparency, and genuine respect for the communities we operate in. As Chairman of the British Chamber of Commerce South China, I have worked to strengthen UK-China business ties at one of the most complex and consequential moments in the bilateral relationship.

And through Come Together Community (CTC), which I co-founded in Zhuhai in 2011, I have tried to give something back to the city that has been my home for twenty years — raising over USD 455,000 for underprivileged children and those with autism and developmental conditions, entirely transparently, with zero salaries or administration fees.

This knighthood follows two other recognitions that have meant a great deal to me — the 2019 Sino-Phil International Peace Award and the 2019 United Nations Social Impact Award — and each one has reinforced the same belief: that the most meaningful work is the work that quietly serves others, year after year, without expectation of reward.

The Order in Context

The Order of the Knights of Rizal has a distinguished history of honouring individuals who exemplify Dr. Rizal’s virtues. Notable recipients include King Juan Carlos I of Spain, former US Secretary of State Henry Kissinger, and Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim. I am deeply humbled to join their number.

In My Own Words

When I received the investiture, I expressed what I genuinely felt:

“I am deeply honoured to be recognised by the Order of the Knights of Rizal. This accolade not only reflects my personal journey but also underscores the importance of fostering international understanding and giving back to the community. I remain committed to upholding the values of Dr. José Rizal and will continue to work towards strengthening global partnerships and supporting those in need. I truly believe that if we all did one thing to help another, no matter how small, the world would be a better place for everyone.”

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Mark Clayton FCMA CGMA CPA KOR — Group CFO, C2W Group | Chairman, British Chamber of Commerce South China | Founder, Come Together Community