Taiwan compatriot traces his roots to Fujian

However, the journey between Fuzhou and Matsu was long and arduous. Tsao recalled waking up at 4 am, rushing to Changle airport, taking a flight to Hong Kong, transferring to Taiwan's Taoyuan airport, driving to Songshan airport and finally boarding a flight to Matsu.

Tsao often fantasized about a day when a bridge would connect the two shores, making travel between Fuzhou and Matsu more convenient.

In 2001, shortly after graduating from university, Tsao returned to Fuzhou to assist his father with business. The newly opened Mawei-Matsu route made his journey home much easier.

"Fuzhou is my root, and I have a new affection for this city," Tsao said.

Inspired by Fuzhou's vast development prospects, he decided to start his own catering company, focusing on the Taiwan beverage market. He secured the franchise rights for a popular bubble tea brand and quickly expanded from one store to nearly 20, igniting a bubble tea craze in Fujian.

As the market became saturated, Tsao shifted his focus to the English language training market. Alongside his wife, Tsai Ko-ning, he founded an institute that cultivates children's English proficiency while instilling good character and effective learning habits.