China: Disabled People Realizing Their Dreams – from Chef, Teacher and Barista and Various Other Sectors! (6.7.2023)

Along with six friends, she embarked on a venture selling handicrafts created by people with disabilities in the region. Their offerings include exquisite works of embroidery and intricate paper-cutting.

Similarly, chef Li Yuanyuan from Guizhou had a heartfelt desire to extend support to others. On the national day of assisting disabled persons, which is observed on the third Sunday of May every year, he would distribute the dishes he prepared among fellow community members with disabilities.

“Before reaching where I am today, I received immense help and encouragement. Therefore, I am determined to pay it forward, to assist and inspire others. Only through such actions can my life acquire true meaning,” said Li, reflecting on his journey.

‘Silent’ Restaurant Provides Livelihood to the Deaf, Mute! (28.9.2022)

When asked why she insisted on only providing jobs to the deaf-mute for 12 years, Li said she had witnessed the difficulties they experience as a child, with six of her family members both deaf and mute, and facing limited job opportunities, etc.

I chose to open a hot pot restaurant and make it easier for the disabled to prepare and serve dishes, with gas stoves replaced with induction equivalents, which are safer for deaf employees to use, Li said.

Xinxiang City is home to more than six million residents, of which more than 40,000 are deaf and mute, and with only one school for them to attend.

Li’s parents used to study at this school, meaning the employees in the hot pot restaurant are mainly their classmates. Now deaf people who are applying for work often take the initiative to ask Li for a job.

I hope that the deaf and mute can work and live normal lives, using their strength to earn a reasonable living, Li said.