Name: Audrey Tang (Chinese: 唐鳳; pinyin: Táng Fèng)
Role:
Taiwanese Ambassador-at-large; Former Minister of Digital Affairs; Software Developer and Open-Source Advocate.
Net Worth:
As of March 2025, Audrey Tang’s net worth is estimated at $10 million.
Profile Overview:
Audrey Tang is a Taiwanese software developer, open-source advocate, and politician celebrated for their contributions to digital governance and civic technology. As Taiwan’s first transgender and non-binary cabinet member, Tang has championed initiatives in transparency, participatory democracy, and digital innovation. Known for their work on open-source projects like EtherCalc and as a leader in the Perl and Haskell programming communities, Tang has been described as one of the “ten greatest Taiwanese computing personalities.” In October 2024, they were appointed Taiwan’s Ambassador-at-large, continuing their advocacy for ethical digital transformation globally.
Bio:
Audrey Tang was born on April 18, 1981, in Taipei, Taiwan. Diagnosed with a congenital heart defect as a child, they faced challenges in traditional schooling due to their advanced intellect and social difficulties. At age 14, they dropped out of school with their parents’ support to pursue self-directed learning. By age 15, Tang had founded their own IT company, leading a team of developers specializing in the Perl programming language.
Tang’s career spans both the private and public sectors. They worked as a consultant for Apple on computational linguistics and contributed to Oxford University Press on crowd lexicography. In 2016, Tang was appointed as Minister without Portfolio in Taiwan’s Executive Yuan, becoming the youngest cabinet member at age 35. They later served as Minister of Digital Affairs (2022–2024), where they spearheaded projects like g0v (“gov zero”) and vTaiwan to enhance government transparency and citizen participation.
Audrey Tang’s Role in Artificial Intelligence:
Audrey Tang has been a leading advocate for integrating AI into governance while ensuring ethical safeguards. As Minister of Digital Affairs, they promoted initiatives such as e-Rulemaking and media literacy programs to strengthen democratic engagement. Their work emphasizes the use of AI for public good, including tools that combat misinformation and improve civic participation.
Tang’s radical transparency practices—publishing all government meetings online—serve as a model for using technology to build trust between governments and citizens. They continue to advocate for AI policies that prioritize human rights and inclusivity.
Nationality:
Taiwanese
Age:
43 years old (as of March 21, 2025).
Educational Qualification:
- Self-directed education after leaving traditional schooling at age 14.
Sources of Wealth:
- Government Roles: Former Minister of Digital Affairs; Ambassador-at-large since October 2024.
- Open-Source Contributions: Developer of EtherCalc and leader in the Perl and Haskell programming communities.
- Consulting: Worked with companies like Apple on computational linguistics.
- Speaking Engagements & Recognition: Featured globally for contributions to digital governance.
- Civic Technology Initiatives: Key figure in projects like g0v and vTaiwan.
Random Fact:
Audrey Tang once requested to be paid in bitcoin during their consulting work with Apple—a decision that reflected their forward-thinking approach to technology.
Audrey Tang’s career exemplifies their dedication to leveraging technology for societal benefit while promoting transparency and inclusion. Their leadership continues to inspire global efforts toward ethical digital transformation.
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