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| Vimbai Audrey Tanakah Murungweni, from Zimbabwe, Graduate Student from Nanchang Hangkong University |
Living, studying, working — and my growth — in China, during the past several years, have given me a "front-row seat" to witness the powerful evolution of women, here, in a country that continues to grow as a global force. The Chinese women I have encountered have been making achievements. They have not only inspired me, personally, but have also reshaped my understanding of what women can achieve.
One of the most striking achievements I have observed is Chinese women's growing presence in challenging, and traditionally, male-dominated fields. Today, I'm working alongside Chinese women who are pursuing their goals in complex fields, such as science. Their confidence and brilliance constantly remind me how much progress has been made. It's no longer rare to see women excelling in high-level roles.
Moreover, entrepreneurship among Chinese women is thriving. Two of my friends here started small businesses within the past few years. Their businesses have grown into big companies. Their successes show Chinese women are not merely participating in the economy; rather, they are helping shape it.
Another thing that impresses me is the way Chinese women are managing to blend tradition with modernity. Also, let's not forget Chinese women's increasing language and intercultural competence! Many Chinese women I have met speak excellent English, and they can confidently engage with people from all around the world. This makes them effective envoys in global business, education and diplomacy. They ask thoughtful questions about where I'm from; they try to learn a few Shona greetings; and, they even follow Zimbabwean content creators online. They have particularly impressed me with their willingness to build a communication "bridge" far beyond our territorial borders.
China has taken significant steps in advancing women's development, not only within the country's borders, but also through its partnerships with other countries, including Zimbabwe.
Through initiatives, such as the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC), China has shared its best practices in agriculture, education and healthcare, to the direct benefit of women.
For example, I know a few Zimbabwean women, who have studied medicine, engineering or business in China, and they have been doing well since they returned to Zimbabwe. Chinese companies and programs have invested in Zimbabwe's rural development, recruited women employees and provided those women with jobs. That has led to a significant leap in economic empowerment for the women.
Cultural exchanges between China and Zimbabwe have fostered mutual understanding. When I share my experiences in China with my friends back home, they are often surprised by how we have similar experiences with Chinese women. I once had a conversation with a Chinese friend, to whom I introduced the similarities in our lifestyles. She told me, "We are all the same people, just in different colors." I have also outlined African women's inspiring stories to my Chinese friends. Such exchanges plant a "seed" for women's collective empowerment.
Regarding the significance of Beijing hosting a meeting on gender equality and women's empowerment, later this year, I think the event will be both symbolic and practical. It will show the world China not only reviews its internal progress, but China also opens its gate so it can hear global voices. Such gatherings give us opportunities to listen to and learn from each other, and to share across cultures, generations and ideologies.
About this meeting, I'd like to say: True empowerment is about creating a system that gives every woman — from wherever she comes — the room to grow, lead and define her path. Chinese women have demonstrated to me the importance of creating global impact. I hope this meeting will encourage us all to blend our traditions with a bold and modern vision for equality. As a Zimbabwean, specifically, I hope the dialogue among various nations continues to include and uplift voices from the Global South.
Photos from Interviewee
(Source: Women of China)
Editor: Wang Shasha
