Part 1: Legacy in the Shelves
In the bustling heartbeat of 1995, in a corner of our city, a dream crystallized into a haven for bibliophiles: a bookstore named Xiaofeng. My parents, both ardent lovers of literature, wove their shared passion into brick and mortar, designing a space that was more than just a commercial venture. It was their sanctuary, a space for discovery, learning, and the magic of stories.
Five years later, with the scent of ink and paper still fresh in their lives, another story began - mine. They christened me Xiaofeng, intertwining my destiny with the very essence of their first love (the bookstore). This playful act always prompted a jest from me, claiming that I was, perhaps, their second child, with the bookstore taking precedence.
Me engrossed in a book at my parents' bookstore, age 5.
My earliest memories are not of parks or playgrounds, but of the comforting aroma of new books and the whispering pages that held secrets waiting to be unraveled. My childhood was an immersive tutorial in the art of running a bookstore. With gentle guidance from my mother, I would enthusiastically dust off bookshelves, hold intimate book discussions with peers, and curate selections of freshly arrived titles. Weekends were especially memorable, as they would find me perched on a stool behind the counter, scanning book barcodes, eyes wide with amazement at each beep, every transaction cementing my sense of belonging to this literary world.
As the calendar pages turned, Xiaofeng expanded its footprint. From that singular establishment, my parents' dreams sprawled across the city, culminating in 30 direct branches. But it wasn’t just about numbers. They collaborated with institutions, from academic giants to corporate titans, assisting them in setting up quaint book corners or full-fledged libraries. Their vision was clear: to disseminate knowledge, one book at a time.
Mom with China's Premier, Li Keqiang.
In a tapestry of memories woven with ink and paper, one thread shines brighter than others. It was the day China's former Vice Premier, Keqiang Li, stepped through the doors of parents' bookstore. As he admired the shelves, a silent acknowledgment passed between him and my parents. His appreciation for their relentless pursuit of passion, in an era where the tactile warmth of book pages was losing out to cold digital screens, stood as a proud endorsement of our legacy. Word of our enchanting haven even traveled international corridors, captivating the esteemed guests of the G20 summit.
As the years rolled on, the digital age's crescendo threatened to overshadow the whispered secrets of paperback. The bustling footfalls that once echoed in our store began to fade. Yet, amidst the looming shadows of uncertainty, my mother's spirit remained a beacon. Her resilience, unwavering. Drawing inspiration from her indomitable will, an idea sprouted. In 2014, right next to our flagship Xiaofeng outlet, the aroma of freshly baked goods began wafting through “Bretagne Bakery.” This bakery, rich with the scent of buttery pastries, was more than a gourmet delight. It was a chess move, a gentle lure for those led by their sweet cravings, with the hope that once satiated, they might find themselves lost in the world of stories waiting just next door.
Parents at their inaugural bookstore in 1995.
Mom with the First Lady of Canada
Dad and mom at their newly opened bookstore, 2022.
Part 2: The Palette of My Identity
In the embrace of my parents’ inspiring legacy, I grappled with defining my individual identity. Their journey made me ponder on my own purpose, my passions, and the mark I wished to etch on the world. From my earliest memories, I was drawn to the spectrum of colors, using them as my voice when words fell short. Everywhere I traveled, my loyal companions were a set of color pens and a camera – tools that allowed me to express my view of the world, and in turn, understand myself better. Explore my works, and you'll see more than just art – you'll see the world through my eyes, every shade of my perspective.
Painting Gallery
“Embark on a journey through my artistic landscape, where each stroke narrates an emotion, a memory, an epiphany.”
Name: Monet's Gaze; Media: Pastel
Name: Lilypads Mirage; Media: Pastel
Name: Blossoming Epoch; Media: Oil painting
Name: Echoes of Xiaofeng in Monet's Hues; Media: acrylic
Name: Xiaofeng through Van Gogh's Strokes; Media: acrylic
Name: Tidal Notes in Tsutaya's Realm; Media: pen and blue colors pen
Photography Gallery
“Peek through my camera’s lens to witness moments that touched my soul, from the ephemeral beauty of fleeting seconds to the profound narratives they hold.”
Influenced heavily by my parents' wisdom, I often found solace in their words. They painted a vivid picture, asserting that I was perched atop their experiences, seeing further and clearer. With this heightened perspective, I realized the power I held – not just to witness the world, but to make an impact.
Awards & Honors
National Prize by Chinese Press and Public Administration
Description: Bestowed upon ten individuals across various age groups who have left a lasting impact on the world of books.
Reason for Recognition: Upon my first foray into my high school library, I was deeply perturbed by its glaring lack of diverse literature. Fueled by a desire to champion inclusive reading, I began a personal mission. Forgoing my own luggage space on every trip, I diligently sourced and transported a vast collection of treasured Chinese literary works. Through my persistent endeavors, I introduced 378 unique titles to the library, birthing an international literary alcove that showcased the richness of diverse cultures. My unwavering commitment to literature did not go unnoticed, earning me the honor of being the youngest recipient of this prestigious award to date.
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Health & Safety Certification
Certification: Certified CPR+AED Responder by the American Heart Association
Reason for Achievement: My commitments are manifold, stretching beyond the realm of arts and into the very core of community welfare. This certification stands as a testament to my dedication in fostering a safer community. With this recognition, my preparedness to rise to any emergency situation, preserving and safeguarding lives in moments of peril, is validated.
Featured Publications on Prominent Newspapers
Description: Garnering attention from major news outlets, my written pieces have illuminated many columns and reached vast readerships.
Reason for Recognition: From a tender age, the art of writing resonated with me deeply, acting as a conduit to voice my unique experiences. Growing up amidst the aisles of bookstores, I've been privy to a world teeming with stories, both told and untold. This enriched environment sculpted my perspective, and I became adept at transcribing my observations onto paper. The narratives of my growth within the literary haven of bookstores, coupled with tales of my academic pursuits and life learnings, found a welcoming platform in some of the most revered newspapers. My adept storytelling and relatable narratives struck a chord with many, establishing me as a notable voice.
Notable Speaking Engagements
Event: International Museum Conference | “Youth Muse: The Potential of Museum”
Details: Organized by the esteemed Zhejiang Province Museum and Institute of Museology, I was invited to elucidate on the untapped potential of museums in the modern age, with a particular focus on engaging the younger generation.
Exclusive Invitation from the Zhejiang Province Museum
Notable Speaking Engagements
Event: “Flower Plan” Auction
Details:
A curated event by Sofitel Hotels and Resorts, in collaboration with Dushi Newspaper. Designed to be a grand affair, the event attracted a multitude of guests, including the who's who of the business realm, prominent educators, and other esteemed attendees.
At the heart of the event, I was given the privilege to deliver the keynote address. Standing before a distinguished audience, my speech was rooted in the intricacies and profound benefits of international education. With a narrative shaped by my own journey of studying abroad, I highlighted the immeasurable value of immersing oneself in varied cultures and learning paradigms.
My discourse also emphasized the urgency of extending educational opportunities to underserved children in China. Advocating passionately, I underscored the imperative of collective action, urging the attendees to invest in initiatives that champion accessible and quality education for every child. The overarching aim was to foster a future where the doors of knowledge swing open for every eager learner, irrespective of their socioeconomic backgrounds.
Part 3: Voice of a New Era
From the cozy confines of my parent's bookstore to the expansive world around, I found myself evolving into a young woman with deep-seated passions. Art and business, integral parts of my upbringing, fused seamlessly with my newfound voice on pressing societal matters. My journey is a tapestry of experiences, emotions, and efforts, and as I matured, I realized my unique position to make an impact, to champion causes close to my heart, and to inspire change in ways both subtle and monumental.
Published Works
Growing up amidst the towering stacks of books in my parent's bookstore, each volume seemed to whisper stories of different worlds, diverse lives, and profound wisdom. This daily symphony of pages turning and tales unfolding sowed the seeds of a dream within my young heart, to contribute to those very shelves that shaped my childhood. Today, my published works stand as testament to that dream nurtured by the very ambiance of that bookstore, a tangible reflection of my journey from an awestruck child to a passionate author.
Title of Publication: "Xing He Li Xing He Zhuan" (Chinese: "星河界里星河转")
Position: Primary Author and Editorial Supervisor
Publishing Entity: Shanghai Culture Publishing House
Date of Publication: September 30, 2019
Synopsis:
The book intricately chronicles the life and artistic endeavors of Mr. Zikai Feng. At its heart, the book is a tapestry of cherished friendships and professional relationships among China's cultural vanguards from the Republican era through the 1970s. Readers are offered an intimate glimpse into Feng Zikai's profound connections with iconic figures such as Shutong Li, Yifu Ma, Xun Lu, Shengtao Ye, Mianzun Xia, Zhenduo Zheng, Pingbo Yu, Yutang Lin, Ziqing Zhu, Jin Ba, Juntao Qian, Leping Zhang, Lanfang Mei, and Buqing Su. These luminaries, who shaped China's cultural and academic spheres, intersected with Zikai Feng in roles as mentors, colleagues, and friends, their shared journeys spanning literature, art, and education. The book is a poignant homage to this resplendent epoch, often likened to a convergence of esteemed intellects. To further enrich the narrative, it features over a hundred meticulously selected images, encapsulating the treasured correspondences and notes that passed between Zikai Feng and these trailblazing figures.
I dedicated 208 hours to perfecting my portion of the text, and the photos were taken during the final review stage.
In the final stages before publication, I dedicated two continuous weeks as an editor, collaborating with authors to refine the content, images, and overall layout of the book.
Standing side by side with esteemed co-authors of the book, celebrated as authors, educators, and artists in our society.
Title of the Work: 现在开始——你，大有可为
(Original Title: “Start Now! You Can Make A Difference”)
Author: Chelsea Clinton
Position: Lead Translator (English to Chinese) & Editorial Supervisor
Publishing Entity: Sichuan People Publishing House
Anticipated Publication Date: January 2024
Synopsis:
In this poignant narrative, Chelsea Clinton engages readers with a direct, compelling appeal, emphasizing the inherent potential within each individual to catalyze change. It prose resonates with a profound recognition of our intrinsic value, seamlessly leading us on a transformative journey of self-discovery, deeper understanding, and proactive engagement. Encouraging deeper connection with our communities and broader world, Chelsea underscores the pivotal roles of empathy, innovation, and unwavering commitment. Clinton does more than inspire with eloquent words; she equips us with practical tools to actualize our aspirations. This is not just a source of inspiration—it's a profound call-to-action, asserting that we hold the power to shape a brighter and more optimistic future.
From Inspiration to Action: A Personal Journey of Translation and Transformation
As I stood on the threshold of adulthood, the dawn of my 19th birthday marked a pivotal moment of transition, an intersection between the nurturing cocoon of high school and the exhilarating voyage that awaited me at university. In this significant juncture of growth and self-discovery, my parents graced me with a timeless gift that would profoundly sculpt my worldview - this invaluable book.
Each page turned became a pact, a solemn vow to myself and to the world, to share this deep well of inspiration that seemed to transcend linguistic barriers, fostering a universal dialogue of change, empathy, and empowerment. This book transformed my nervous energy into a powerful force, instilling in me the bravery to forge ahead, nurturing my evolving spirit to embody compassion and to adopt the mantle of a thoughtful innovator.
Embarking on this translation journey transcends the mere sharing of a cherished narrative. It represents a deeper alignment with the principles of sustainability that Clinton espouses, reflecting not just agreement but an active participation in nurturing a world that thrives on balance, respect, and foresight. It stands as a bridge facilitating cultural unity between the East and the West, a gateway encouraging reciprocal respect and understanding, weaving a vibrant tapestry enriched with diverse philosophies that flourish in harmony, offering a richer, more textured canvas of human experience and wisdom. It also serves as my heartfelt homage to women leaders like Chelsea Clinton, embodying the luminous beacon of hope and resilience in the advocacy for societal progression.
Through this translation, I aim to do more than amplify Clinton's powerful voice; it is a salute to her relentless pursuit, and that of many others, for a world bathed in empathy and united in the pursuit of betterment.
Initiatives & Innovations
In the interplay between art, sustainability, and societal transformation, I have found a fertile ground to sow the seeds of change. My initiatives and independent projects, however, are not mere items on a checklist or events to be attended and forgotten. They spring from a deeply ingrained ethos, echoing my commitment to enriching experiences that captivate minds, hearts, and souls.
These projects are a testament to my dedication towards challenging entrenched norms and perspectives. I believe in actively nurturing an environment where innovation meets tradition, where the aesthetic allure of art intersects with the raw urgency of sustainability, and where the individual's journey aligns with collective societal aspirations. My endeavors are vibrant expressions, tangible embodiments of my vision for a world that respects its past while ardently crafting a more sustainable, inclusive future.
In Closing
“Yet, as I pen down this chapter, my story is far from complete. My heart brims with an insatiable hunger to grow, to evolve, and to metamorphose into a force capable of ushering in impactful changes.”
Xiaofeng (Jessica) Zhu