Volunteers honored in Maluan Subdistrict

Samuel Sadiq (C) from Germany, Christopher Shaw from the U.K. (2nd R), and Dr. Mrutyunjay Maharana (1st R) from India hold their certificates as outstanding volunteers during the Dec. 21 event in Maluan Subdistrict, Pingshan District. Photos courtesy of Maluan Subdistrict

Three expats and 30 Chinese were recognized as outstanding volunteers by Maluan Subdistrict's New Era Civility Practice Center on Dec. 21 for their longtime commitment to volunteering and dedication to the communities.

The center's volunteers are organized in five teams, covering services such as cultural services, social care, healthcare, environmental protection, and traffic safety, reaching every street and alley in the subdistrict. 

As part of building the subdistrict's international block, more expats have joined the volunteering efforts. This year, the expat volunteers used their language skills and global perspectives in various activities, such as identifying inaccurate or problematic English signs in public areas, creating English audio guides for Dawan Ancestral Residence, and teaching German classes to children.

Samuel Sadiq from Germany has volunteered many times to teach German to children in Pingshan. He said, "In Germany, about 40% of people are involved in volunteer activities. After coming to Pingshan, I felt that the effort to give back to society should not stop. It is a great honor for me to participate in the volunteer activities for the Maluan Subdistrict International Block and contribute my strength to society."

Other volunteers also shared their experiences from the past year during the event. Shi Jian, who was honored as an outstanding volunteer, said, "We have diverse volunteer services and a larger team. Volunteers not only help others but also grow personally. Through my service, I've learned a lot of knowledge and skills and made like-minded friends."

A staff member from the Maluan Subdistrict Office commented, "The expat volunteers have made significant contributions to the international block and have facilitated exchanges between Chinese and foreign cultures. We look forward to welcoming more international friends to join our volunteer team."

Dr. Mrutyunjay Maharana makes dumplings with other volunteers during the event.

On Dec. 21, which coincided with the winter solstice, the volunteers gathered to make dumplings for a year-end celebration. They shared techniques to make dumplings in various shapes and enjoyed the fun of making this traditional Chinese food together.