October 2026
From the Founder –
About three weeks ago, I had the pleasure of welcoming a group of EGRC (Educating Girls of Rural China, 2005 – 2023) alumni in Vancouver. They came to Canada to participate in a self-funded, two-week Advanced Leadership Program at Royal Roads University (RRU) on Vancouver Island, BC.
Through our continued communication over the years, I have come to understand the challenges many face. After years of working long hours in highly competitive environments, they are exhausted and find themselves asking, “What’s next? What else can I do, and what do I truly want to do?” as women they face the “glass ceiling” and balancing family duty with career ambitions.
Coming to Canada offered them a break and breath of fresh air—an opportunity to live and learn in a different environment. Surrounded by the natural beauty of RRU’s campus, they found not only a place to learn and grow, but also a space to pause, reflect, and rejuvenate. They first time being introduced to different ideas and types of leadership which they found inspiring and achievable.
Paying it forwarded is valued at EGRC. Since the establishment of the Foundation, EGRC alumni have organized annual fundraising campaigns to support our continued mission. Reuniting with this group in Vancouver was especially meaningful. We shared memories, laughter, and even tears—precious moments that reminded me of the deep and lasting bonds we have built over the years.
Learn more about EGRC History
As always, the group received a warm welcome at RRU’s Global Leadership Academy. Beyond their classroom learning, they explored the local culture by meeting with women leaders in the local Chinese community, participated in Indigenous Day celebration and immerged in the beauty of nature, in the meantime gaining new cultural perspectives and meaningful connections.
Participants and the Staff of RRU Global Leadership Academy
Participants –
Nancy Wang –
Postdoctoral Researcher, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing
Xueping Li –
Senior Risk Manager, PA Bank Credit Card Centre, Guangzhou
Yan Ma –
Leasing Manager, Zhongyuan Commercial Operation, Hangzhou
Lin Li –
Operation Supervisor, Yemeitai Co, Shanghai
Vivian He –
Manager of Communication, China National Nuclear Corporation, Xinjiang
Roni Bu –
English Teacher, Qianxi Education Co, Zhengzhou
Reflections –
Nancy Wang –
“2026 marks the twelfth year since Auntie Tien came into my life. I have finally set foot in the place where she lives. I feel like a daughter returning to her mother’s side.
We ate together, walked slowly along the seawall in Vancouver, took a harbour cruise with the wind blowing on our faces. The time with her was calm and warm. Across mountains and rivers, twelve years of quiet longing became this reunion.
At RRU’s Advanced Leadership Program, teachers didn’t rush us to give answers. They led us to think, exchange, and express ourselves bravely. Classes were relaxed and quietly enjoyable; almost without our realizing it, our thinking opened and self-expression came naturally.”
Xueping Li –
“Breaking away from monotonous and repetitive work to arrive in Canada for a learning exchange felt like novelty. After a short two weeks, I gained insight and strength and inspired by this wonderful new environment.
I enjoyed immensely the breathtaking beauty of autumn and immersed myself in RRU’s warm, inclusive atmosphere. Listen face-to-face to female leaders sharing stories of feminine strength and resilience, drawing inspiration from these role models to unlock my potential as a woman.
Endless gratitude to Auntie Tien and Royal Roads University for providing this invaluable opportunity that will benefit me for a lifetime.”
Yan Ma –
“I have been swamped by work for a few years. It is rare to have nearly 20 days away from work, how amazing!
The Learning at Royal Roads University was a different experience comparing to the lecture-based education I had. We had plenty space to think, express our ideas and ask questions. It was inspiring!”
Lin Li –
“What impressed me most was our conversation with Charlayne (翠琪), a Chinese woman worked in Chinatown. She intended to keep working for the rest of her life. I was genuinely astonished when I heard that! It is already challenging for women to navigate the workplace, yet her passion for what she does gives her the determination to keep going. Both Charlayne and Auntie Tien are inspiring examples of women leaders. Their stories made me reflect on an important question: What could inspire me to persevere with the same passion and determination throughout my life?
This journey to Canada made me to rethink my career journey. I do not want to drift through life without a real purpose. I want to discover something I truly love, and I am willing to dedicate myself to pursue.”
