China's Shining Stars

(Tianjin Today)
Updated: 2012-05-15

One such high school student is Chen Meng Yu. In her short life she has already done some remarkable things.

Tianjin has many fine international schools that are well able to compete with schools back home, wherever that may be. How about Chinese students? You no doubt pass hordes of Chinese school children every day, often maybe you feel there is nothing to separate them other than the colour of their school uniforms. However they are quietly striving to achieve excellence in a highly competitive environment. Some of them are doing great things. They have hopes and dreams and are working hard to achieve them. One such high school student is Chen Meng Yu. In her short life she has already done some remarkable things.

Last year she was selected to be a delegate at the UN Youth Assembly. She tells us how this came about. "I found the information accidentally on the Internet, so I applied and was interviewed by telephone by the Committee. The Youth Assembly at the United Nations is a chance to meet lots of NGOs in different areas promoting gender equality, eradicating extreme poverty, etc. The speeches given by the CEO of PEPSI, the former Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice and many other leaders were extraordinary. I was so privileged to be selected as the only girl to work in the 5 people team selected to give the speech. Our presentation "The leaders of tomorrow" was really successful. In a nutshell, the Youth Assembly at the UN made me realize the pain that people in the same world are suffering and it's never too late to stand up and fight for them".

One of her other challenges was directing "High School Musical" at her school. She says "I rewrote the play and customised it. Unfortunately, at that time, my class only had a week and a half to practice. It was very hard because there were more than 25 people participating in the stage show and I had to manage everyone's time and balance everything. The most difficult part was getting the English right, which nearly, killed me. I really enjoyed the challenge and I'm very grateful to my team".

What will she be doing in ten years' time? "Well, I'll be 26 then… kinda horrible! First, I will have my own NGO of animal protection, working with the people who share the same goal, and have already done a lot for the animals in China. I plan to be a very strict vegan, not a vegetarian like now. Plus, at the age of 25 or even younger, if I can afford it, I want to be able to send my parents travelling before they become too old to enjoy life, as it has always been their dream to travel around the world. I see myself as a strong independent woman walking in the street like Angelina Jolie - ok, not necessarily that cool, but enjoying being alone and taking life as it comes. Additionally, I want to do a part-time job working with the NGO of Maternal Health who I met at the UN. I want to go to Africa to help women. Ultimately, my biggest dream and hope ever, is that there will be less suffering and pain for animals in the world, especially China".

The flag of China has five golden stars. The big star represents the Government and the smaller stars represent the people. Truly in the youth of China are to be found the golden stars of the future, so Miss Chen no doubt wherever you go and whatever you do, you will be a fitting representative of your country. Never lose your passion for life!