The Inspiring Story of Zhang Guimei
Zhang Guimei, also known as Mama Zhang, is a renowned educator and philanthropist in China. She has devoted her life to providing education to girls from impoverished families and empowering them to become valuable members of society.
The Early Years
Born in 1958 in a remote village in Shaanxi Province, Zhang Guimei faced numerous obstacles in her early life. Her parents were impoverished farmers who struggled to provide for their family. Despite these challenges, Zhang Guimei was determined to receive an education and to help others like herself. She went on to study at Shaanxi Normal University and later at Beijing Normal University, where she received her Master's degree.
The Founding of the School
In 1988, Zhang Guimei returned to her hometown and founded the Xi'an Yongshou Women's Federation Girls' School. The school was designed to provide quality education to girls from impoverished backgrounds, and Mama Zhang personally funded the project with her meager savings. The school started with just 56 students, but Mama Zhang's dedication and hard work soon transformed it into a renowned institution. Today, the school has over 2,800 students and has received numerous accolades for its high-quality education.
Mama Zhang's Legacy
Throughout her career, Zhang Guimei has been committed to helping girls from impoverished backgrounds obtain education and skills that will enable them to lead fulfilling lives. She has received numerous honors for her work, including the prestigious L'Oreal-UNESCO for Women in Science Award, and has been hailed as a symbol of compassion and hope in China. Mama Zhang's work has inspired countless individuals, and her legacy will continue to have a lasting impact on the lives of girls and women in China and beyond.