People are at the heart of the Chinese mainland’s rural revitalization, and few stories illustrate this better than that of Aying, a young mother from Gansu who went from unassuming housewife to local influencer. In an exclusive interview with CGTN, the Director of the Beautiful Villages project, Hao Demin, shared how Aying’s journey is far from an isolated case.
Launched to modernize infrastructure, services and technology in remote areas, the Beautiful Villages initiative has brought everything from road upgrades and high-speed internet to mobile health clinics and digital learning hubs. These improvements provide a strong foundation—but it’s local creativity that truly sparks lasting change.
In Gansu, Aying tapped into social media and e-commerce platforms to promote handcrafted goods and local cuisine. Her success inspired neighbours to launch homestay experiences, cultural workshops and eco-friendly farming cooperatives. This talent-driven approach is creating a self-sustaining cycle, unlocking potential for millions of residents who are transforming their lives and communities.
Today, the Beautiful Villages model is expanding across provinces in the Chinese mainland, proving that empowering local talent can drive sustainable rural transformation. For young global citizens and digital nomads, this approach underscores how innovation and community spirit can reshape tomorrow—no matter where you live.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
