Jihao Youguo’s life serves as a vivid illustration of China’s tremendous progress in poverty eradication. Emerging from Sanhe village in the mountainous Liangshan Yi Autonomous Prefecture of Southwest China’s Sichuan Province, Youguo recently led the performance at the grand opening ceremony of the 31st World University Games in Chengdu. Her journey from a poverty-stricken household to a public platform reveals a tale of individual resilience and national transformation.
A Humble Beginning
Youguo first captured public attention in February 2018 when Chinese President Xi Jinping visited her village. Singing “Beautiful National Flag” in her family’s modest home, she received President Xi’s applause, and her story became symbolic of the struggles and hopes of her village.
Thanks to local poverty eradication programs, Youguo’s family, along with 29 other households, were relocated to new apartments the following year. This marked a tangible improvement in their living conditions, as her family opened a grocery store and increased their income, significantly enhancing their quality of life.
A New Chapter
The transformation in Youguo’s life continued with her enrollment, along with her siblings, at Liangshan Xichang Tianli School in 2020, tuition-free, thanks to a dedicated charity fund. At school, Youguo began to excel in academics and sports. Teachers noted her progress in subjects such as English and music, and she even became her school’s champion shot-putter.
Inspired by her newfound opportunities, Youguo expressed a desire to become a music teacher. With increasing confidence and the support of her school community, she continued to thrive.
Symbol of National Success
Youguo’s story transcends her personal achievements and has come to symbolize China’s historic victory over poverty. In areas once marked by destitution, innovative solutions like relocating villagers and establishing modern plantations have led to dramatic improvements.
The results are compelling: over 1.05 million people in Liangshan have been lifted out of absolute poverty, and the income per capita in Sanhe village has surged more than tenfold.
Youguo’s performance at the World University Games resonates as more than a celebration of her individual growth; it stands as a testament to China’s unwavering commitment to social development and inclusivity.
Her life’s journey, from singing in her humble home to leading a performance at an international sporting event, captures the essence of China’s transformative path. It serves as a reminder that with collective and targeted efforts, dreams can materialize, and individuals from all walks of life can achieve greatness. Youguo’s story, reflecting the human spirit’s resilience and the profound potential within us all, transcends geographical boundaries and speaks universally to themes of determination, growth, and triumph.
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