Author: Su Qianyi 

Publisher: Jinan University  

Date: November 19, 2024  

Recently, the Department of Higher Education Students of the Ministry of Education, in collaboration with the China Education Development Foundation and China Three Gorges Corporation Limited, announced the winners of the Outstanding Scholarship for Grassroots Employment of College Graduates for 2023-2024. Among the honored recipients is Xie Bingmei, a graduate of Jinan University. 

(Xie Bingmei)

Xie Bingmei has been celebrated for her remarkable commitment to rural revitalization, having chosen to leave a high-paying job in Guangzhou to return to her hometown in Daxian Village, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region. Her efforts have significantly contributed to the village's development, including environmental improvements and the establishment of public facilities like libraries and cultural corridors. Notably, she initiated a 300-acre Chinese herbal medicine planting industrial park, which has tripled the village's collective economy and provided employment for over 100 local women.

(Xie engaged with community members through conversations and farm work.)

Born in 1991, Xie graduated with a master's degree in 2018 and initially worked in Guangzhou. However, after recognizing her hometown's urgent need for young talent, she returned in 2020 to contribute to its development. Her dedication led her to become a representative in the local People's Congress and earn titles such as Outstanding Party Worker at the city level.

(The garbage dump has been transformed into a clean and inviting space.)

Xie's journey began with a call from the village's former branch secretary, who remembered her impactful volunteer work during the COVID-19 pandemic. Although she was enjoying a successful career, the call resonated with her desire to improve the lives of those in her community. Inspired by her mentor's words about the importance of having ideals, she decided to return home.

(The hazardous building has been transformed into a vibrant public activity and leisure venue.)

Upon her return, Xie focused on mobilizing local youth to join her in revitalizing the village, addressing issues such as environmental cleanliness and community engagement. She implemented the construction of garbage disposal points and public spaces, significantly enhancing the village's living conditions. Her leadership and vision transformed Daxian Village into a model of cleanliness and community spirit.

(Teachers and students from Jinan University donated over 420 books and conducted teaching support activities in Daxian Village.)

Xie also worked to boost the village's economy by revitalizing existing industries, such as a local soy sauce factory, and exploring new agricultural opportunities, including the cultivation of traditional Chinese herbs. Her initiatives have resulted in substantial economic growth for the village, with the collective income rising from 40,000 yuan to 150,000 yuan annually.

(Xie's contributions to rural development have garnered significant media attention.)

The impact of Xie's work has been recognized by various media outlets, including Xinhua News Agency and China Youth Daily. Despite the accolades, she remains humble, expressing a commitment to continue her work as long as she is needed in her community. Good children have aspirations in all directions, and those who have aspirations will strive without regrets, she stated, reflecting her dedication to her mission.

Xie Bingmei's story is a powerful example of how one individual's commitment to their community can lead to transformative change, inspiring others to follow in her footsteps.