Madagascar student Dixia: Making Li'an my home to build dreams

en.hainan.gov.cn

Updated: 2026-03-09

With Spring Festival bringing the season of renewal, the Hainan Lingshui Li'an International Education Innovation Pilot Zone (known in short as the Li’an pilot zone) continues its steady march toward becoming a global benchmark for education. This forward-looking hub is more than just a cluster of resources — it's a fertile ground for exploration, innovation and personal growth.

Behind the ambitious master plan are the real people bringing it to life. Through different roles and shared dedication, they have turned a blueprint into a reality. To capture the pulse of this rising "Education City", we are sharing the stories of five individuals. First, let's meet Rajoarimanana Soahery Huberticia (Chinese name Dixia), an international student from Madagascar, as she recounts her journey of chasing her dreams in Li'an.

Integration: A world without borders
For Dixia, the Li’an pilot zone is a gateway to the world. Its inclusive, international atmosphere allows her to dive right into a sea of diverse cultures. By breaking down barriers between institutions and disciplines, the zone's shared curriculum acts as a bridge for global students. Here, Dixia has found more than just classmates; she has found kindred spirits from different backgrounds who share a common drive for excellence.

Interacting with peers from various majors has reshaped her perspective, teaching her that growth lies in embracing differences. This cross-cultural integration has been one of her most transformative academic rewards.

Growth: Forging skills through experience
The past year has been a steep but rewarding learning curve for Dixia. She vividly recalls a leadership program hosted by the University of Glasgow's Adam Smith Business School — an immersive "trial by fire" that brought together students from across the globe.

Working in a high-pressure environment with diverse viewpoints was no easy feat. Language gaps and conflicting ideas tested the team's resolve. However, Dixia and her peers chose to listen rather than retreat, seeking consensus through dialogue. The long nights of collaboration and the honest post-mortems of their failures became her most defining moments. More than just leadership, she walked away with the grit and communications skills needed to navigate an unpredictable world.

Connection: Growing with the free trade port
Dixia's initial impression of the Hainan Free Trade Port was vague, but a year of immersion has turned that into a deep sense of belonging. As an international student, she has seen firsthand Hainan's relentless drive to create a truly global ecosystem. From seamless communications channels to a wealth of professional opportunities, the Hainan FTP is proving to be a world-class stage for young talent.

Watching Hainan's rapid evolution, Dixia has woven her own story into the island province's development. She's realized that personal dreams shine brightest when they align with the spirit of the era. Today, she views her academic success and the growth of the free trade port as one and the same.

Roots: A heart tied to Hainan
Hainan is no longer just a study destination for Dixia; it has become her second home. Witnessing the island's transformation with both amazement and affection, she now dreams of becoming a lifelong entrepreneur here.

To Dixia, true success means leaving a positive mark on the community that shaped her. She aspires to give back to Hainan by launching her own venture, applying her skills to help build the future of the free trade port. This deep-rooted connection has turned her entrepreneurial vision into a firm commitment to stay and grow in Li'an.

Perseverance: Courage as a compass
Entering a new year, Dixia is guided by a clear vision: To remain bold — daring to dream, to start and to take calculated risks.

She knows that the path to mastery is rarely a straight line. By fostering resilience, she aims to push the boundaries of her expertise, while evolving alongside an ever-changing global landscape. Every challenge is no longer an obstacle, but a stepping stone in her journey.

Greetings: A bridge across the sea
As the festive spirit of the Chinese New Year fills the air, Dixia has sent her best wishes in Malagasy, her native language, from her homeland:
Tratry ny Taom-baovao e!
Amin’ity Taonan’ny Soavaly ity, mirary fahasalamana, fahombiazana ary hafaliana ho anareo sy ny fianakavianareo aho.
Enga anie hiroborobo izay atao, hitondra fahasoavana ary vintana tsara ho antsika rehetra ity taona vaovao ity.
Mirary taom-baovao sambatra o!
Bonne année à tout le monde.

It means that:
Happy Chinese New Year! On the occasion of the Year of the Horse, I wish you and your families good health, successful careers and happy lives. May the new year bring prosperity, happiness and good fortune. Wishing everyone a prosperous Year of the Horse and a happy Chinese New Year!

These simple words bridge the gap between cultures, echoing through the Li’an pilot zone. Under the swaying palms of Li'an, where global knowledge meets youthful ambition, a new generation of international talent like Dixia is taking root. They are the "new waves" of the Hainan FTP — diverse, driven and ready to build a shared future in this blossoming land of opportunity.