Foreign volunteers make a difference in Ningbo

Expats in Ningbo, Zhejiang province, have embraced volunteerism, highlighting the city’s diverse communities and supporting those in need through innovative and heartfelt initiatives.

Andrea Steckel-Jiang, who goes by the Chinese name Jiang Aiqiong, has lived in Ningbo for 20 years. As a doula, she has provided vital support to hundreds of foreign mothers during pregnancy and childbirth. However, her journey led her to the realization that there was another group of women who were often overlooked: those who experienced miscarriages or stillbirths. She refers to these unborn babies as "Angels of Goodbye."

In August, with the help of various organizations, Jiang launched a volunteer service aimed at providing comfort and support to these mothers. Gift boxes filled with handmade stars, tissues, and her contact information were distributed at a local hospital, sending a message of acknowledgment and respect to these women and their lost babies.

Ryan Izatt and Angelique Govender, new residents of Yulan Community in Beilun district, have had a significant impact on the local children. Recognizing the diverse demographics of their community, which includes over 300 expats, they spearheaded the "New Buds Learn to Speak" project.

"We want to create a bridge between the local and expat communities," Izatt said.

The project offers a range of English activities, including English storytime, drama classes, tennis lessons, and handwriting practice. The international volunteers, including Izatt and Govender, bring their unique perspectives and experiences to the classroom, making learning fun and engaging for the children.

Tesh Sharif, a British volunteer, has become a prominent figure in Ningbo's cultural landscape. Passionate about Ningbo's traditional arts, he has collaborated with local performers to present the Ningbo dialect version of Sheng Sheng Man, a popular Chinese song, on a national TV program.

"I want to bridge the gap between the local and expat communities through drama and boxing courses," said Sharif.

He has found a sense of belonging in Ningbo and hopes to help more expats learn Chinese and immerse themselves in the city's rich culture.

With nearly 3,000 expats now living in Ningbo, the city's warmth has inspired many to contribute to its development, cultural exchange, environmental protection, community governance, and care for vulnerable groups, demonstrating a sense of social responsibility that transcends nationality and language.