Our expat community thrives on connection, and here at Jingkids, we’re all about our readers, what they need and want in order to maximize their time here in Beijing. Every Monday, we’re going to feature a prominent member of our expat community and get to know them a little bit better.
Helen Boyle grew up in London where she studied structural engineering and even wrote a book on the subject. When she got to do field work, she was the only girl on the site. This should already give you a sense of how unique this woman is.
After she got married, she left her job because her husband was traveling a lot and it was important for her that they build a life together. But even after they started a family, Helen got busy before the kids were in school by going back to school herself!
She studied online with Open University and got a degree in Computer Science. By the time the kids started their formal education, she was lecturing full time. When Helen’s daughter was 16, she chose to take part in an exchange program in China and stayed with a Chinese family for a summer. That was Helen’s first visit to the country, but she wouldn’t yet come to live here in Beijing, until 2008, when her husband came for work.
Shortly after she moved here, she visited a local school which was underfunded and in dire need. This spurred her to set up the Migrant Children’s Foundation (MCF) which she continues to run today. The following answers are extracted and edited from a phone interview with Helen.
What’s on your mind?
This is a really interesting question. We seldom stop to think because we’re constantly taking action. I’ve always agreed with Goethe who said that man has enough time to do everything he needs to do. [The original quote by Johann Wolfgang Von Goethe is that “One always has time enough, if one will apply it well”]. With proper planning and organizing the resources we have, plus strong belief in yourself, we can achieve our goals. What’s important is to make sure you surround yourself with positive people who share your goal to make a difference.
What’s your motivation to get moving?
The belief that with every small action, I can make a difference. I focus on the positive rather than negative. After all, people rely on you, whether it is your family or a third party. We all have responsibilities and we have dreams. “A winner is a dreamer who never gives up.” – Nelson Mandela. I give 110% and don’t believe in losing time being distracted.
How do you stay sane in all the madness?
I’m studying now, so that keeps my mind occupied. When I get up in the morning, I spend an hour or two studying before I hit the road. I also go to the gym and do sports – squash, swimming etc.
To be honest, when the going gets tough I just keep on going. If I keep going, I’m fine. But when I stop, then my body crashes. So I just don’t stop!
What’s your favorite thing about Beijing?
Being here for 14 years, I love the people; I talk to the security guards at the gate, I talk to the Didi drivers. I know there are so many wonderful places to visit but I haven’t been because I’m committed to the work I do. The fact that you have the opportunity to meet so many inspiring people. I couldn’t see this happening at home. I love the buzz of the city.
Have someone you believe deserves some recognition for their outstanding contributions to our community? Nominate them for our weekly spotlight by writing their name in the comments below!
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Images: Courtesy of Helen Boyle, Uni You
