JOBB Has Officially Begun
After months of intense preparation, the Ruifeng Vocational Empowerment Special Fund (JOBB) project has finally reached its grand opening. From meticulous project preparation to the careful selection of students, the Ruifeng team has overcome various challenges along the way. For many students, this is not only a journey of learning vocational skills but also a significant turning point in their lives. Especially for the young Uyghur students from Kashgar, Xinjiang, this marks their first time leaving their hometown to come to the metropolis of Shanghai. Whether it's the cultural collision or the anticipation of the future, they gather here with excitement and nerves to begin a new chapter alongside their fellow students.
At the unveiling ceremony, Ruifeng Charity's chairwoman, Wang Jiajia, officially announced the opening of the JOBB project. Together with the distinguished guests, she unveiled plaques for the "Vocational Skills and Employment Practice Public Welfare Project Partnership for People with Intellectual Disabilities" and the "Corporate-School Joint Training Base with the Kashgar Zepu County Technical School." This moment not only marks a new beginning for Ruifeng Charity at the Jinding Xingyuan Community, developed by Jinqiao Group, but also signifies that more young people will start their journey toward self-reliance through baking, making their dreams a reality.
An Atmosphere Filled with Enthusiasm, Conveying the Spirit of Public Welfare
The event was filled with energy and enthusiasm. Students from Putuo District Ganlin Junior Vocational School showcased their baking skills, and the aroma of freshly baked bread filled the air, earning endless praise from the guests. Ayitu, a student from Xinjiang, dressed in traditional attire, performed an energetic Xinjiang dance, adding a unique cultural flair and vibrancy to the event.
The event was attended by many distinguished guests, including representatives from government, business, education, and society. Among them were Wu You, Project Director of the Shanghai Soong Ching Ling Foundation; Shen Neng, Party Secretary and Chairman of the Board of Shanghai Jinqiao (Group) Co., Ltd.; Zhu Lili, Party Committee Member and Deputy General Manager; Gao Weihua, Principal of Ganlin Junior Vocational School; Salomé Rodrigues, a representative from the French Consulate General in Shanghai; and many sponsors. Wu You expressed high praise for the partnership with Ruifeng Charity and highlighted the critical role vocational education plays in promoting social harmony and youth development. The Shanghai Municipal Government’s Xinjiang Office also sent their blessings, thanking the community for their support of the project. They hope this project will soon become a practical base for Zepu County Technical School and thrive in Kashgar.
From Poverty Alleviation to Empowerment: Exploring and Practicing a New Charity Model
The composition of the first cohort of JOBB students reflects Ruifeng Charity’s exploration and practice of transitioning from simple poverty alleviation to a charity model focused on vocational empowerment. This time, three groups of students are participating, and they require not only financial support but also professional skills training.
The first group consists of special-needs students from Putuo District Ganlin Junior Vocational School, including those with autism, Down syndrome, and other intellectual disabilities. Through the JOBB project, they will learn baking skills and practice improving their communication abilities, helping them better integrate into society.
The second group includes young people from Shanghai’s partner support regions. Coming to Shanghai, they will receive high-level training to lay a solid foundation for future employment and entrepreneurship.
The third group consists of disadvantaged urban youth, who lack practical skills and social resources, facing significant employment pressure. Through the JOBB project, they will acquire baking skills and have the opportunity to replan their career paths and break free from difficult circumstances.
Public Welfare and Education Working Together
Ruifeng Charity believes that through the JOBB project, we can not only help special-needs individuals and young people from remote regions integrate into society but also provide practical skills to disadvantaged urban youth. This shift in focus from “poverty alleviation” to “empowerment” moves beyond economic assistance, offering real career opportunities and skills through market-oriented vocational training.
We will continue to work hand in hand with all parties, upholding the principles of targeted assistance and resource sharing, opening a new chapter for China’s public welfare initiatives.