My first few months in Beijing were a roller coaster ride, and I thought then that living in the city was quite linear: home, work, party, dining out, or travel. And I’ve observed that many who don’t speak Chinese still would rather join their diaspora or stay in their cocoons, instead of exploring and enjoying what the city has to offer. Don’t get me wrong, but sooner or later this kind of lifestyle will get exhausting and repetitive. Luckily for us here in Beijing, there are community groups that can help you expand your horizons and live your life to the fullest in an Asian megalopolis.
Such a group is the International Newcomer’s Network (INN), an all-volunteer organization which has been in Beijing since 1994. Our friends there have been organizing meet-ups, get-togethers, and info sessions to help newcomers to the city. Now, INN is looking for new faces to join the team.
Here’s a list of some of the soon-to-be-open positions at INN.
– Trekkie coordinator – Like exploring new places in and around the city, and want to share your findings with others? If yes, then this is the position for you! You don’t have to be someone who knows every bit of inch of Beijing, nor even speak the language to take this adventure on. The time commitment is one day or half day a month, plus attending board meetings and/or general gatherings.
– Secretary – Are you efficient and a good note-taker? INN needs someone to take the notes at their monthly board meetings and then remit minutes to the board. The time commitment is a couple of hours one time a month, plus attending general gatherings.
– Treasurer – Are you good with money, budgets, and proficient in Excel? INN needs you to collect, account, report, and distribute money. The time commitment is twice a month: board meeting and general gathering.
– Sanlitun Coffee Morning Coordinator – Like to meet and chat with new people? You would host the coffee morning in Sanlitun every third Tuesday of each month and keep the conversations going. The time commitment is once a month (2 hrs), plus board meeting and general gathering.
An INN Coffee Morning at The Bookworm in Sanlitun
INN President Juli Bradley says that one of the best things about the group is that it is very diverse, with members hailing from different countries such as Germany, Iran, US, Canada, Malaysia, and many others. Bradley adds that INN helps newcomers feel like they are making a difference, and that their time and opinions are truly appreciated.
INN’s recent spring bazaar, which featured more than 20 vendors from the expat and local communities.
INN events like bazaars and gatherings help link newcomers, old-time expats, and communities together.
Bradley says the positions are open to everyone – newcomers or experienced expats alike. If you are interested or would like to know more, contact Bradley via Wechat: JulesBeijing or email INNBeijing16@Outlook.com. You’re also welcome to join a board meeting to see the team in action before committing.
Photos: Courtesy of Juli Bradley and INN
