In the bustling streets of Beijing’s Chaoyang district, a heartwarming story unfolds, centered around Zhang Jianna, a 49-year-old sanitation worker whose dedication to self-improvement and community service transcends the ordinary. Zhang’s remarkable journey of teaching herself English, driven by a deep sense of duty and curiosity, has recently captivated the hearts of many.
Zhang’s story began in 2014 in the Sanlitun embassy area, a region she was responsible for keeping clean. Her role involved managing a team tasked with maintaining over 100,000 square meters of roads and servicing more than 300 dustbins near 56 embassies. It was here that Zhang encountered a language barrier that would change the course of her life.
One day, a foreigner approached Zhang outside an embassy, inquiring about visa applications. The language barrier led to a moment of mutual confusion and embarrassment. This incident ignited a spark within Zhang; she decided then and there to learn English from scratch. Her goal was simple yet profound: to help people and bridge the communication gap.
Zhang’s approach to learning English was as unique as her motivation. She incorporated her studies into her daily routine, using breaks and time after work to immerse herself in the language. Her learning methods were diverse, ranging from rote memorization of vocabulary to utilizing language learning apps on her cell phone. She also practiced conversing in English with her children, enhancing her conversational skills.
Her efforts paid off. Zhang can now confidently communicate with English-speaking visitors, assisting them with directions and information about the city. She has mastered the names of all 56 embassies in English and continues to expand her vocabulary and understanding of the language.
Zhang’s linguistic journey is about more than just acquiring a new skill; it’s a story of love, persistence, and the joy of learning. She finds delight in the nuances of English and enjoys the process of memorization through word associations. Her comparison of English’s directness to the subtleties of Putonghua (standard Chinese) reveals her deep engagement with both languages.
Zhang views her newfound language abilities as a bridge to connect with foreign visitors, fulfilling what she sees as her responsibility to introduce Beijing’s culture and hospitality to the world. Her efforts also extend to promoting Chinese medicine culture, inspired by her hometown in Baoding, North China’s Hebei Province, known for its Chinese herbs.
The recognition of Zhang’s extraordinary efforts came from various quarters. She was featured in a video by a state broadcaster and honored with titles such as “Outstanding Lecturer” at both the Beijing and Chaoyang district levels. She also serves as a representative on the city’s lecture tours.
Zhang’s story is a testament to the transformative power of self-education and determination. Her humble beginnings, combined with her unwavering dedication to self-improvement and community service, have made her an inspiring figure. As she plans to learn more languages, including French, Zhang’s journey continues to inspire and demonstrate that with persistence and passion, anyone can break down barriers and connect worlds.
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