Yao Chen: I am a better person

Chinese actress Yao Chen shares how social medial changed her life during World Economic Forum in Tianjin on Sept 10. [Photo/Chinanews]

Telling their story

A global stage

"I was visiting one of the refugees. He is an agriculturalist, a Somali, and was sent to the Philippines to study by the Somali government. He could have returned to his homeland after graduation with a post in the government. But, during his studies, coup d'etat in his country snatched that thought from him. He stayed in the Philippines. This is his 24th year."

"He never applied for citizenship in the Philippines. I asked why, and his answer struck me deeply. He said, 'I always feel like I might be able to go home today, or even tomorrow.'"

Life is more complex and more realistic than the cyber world of Weibo. This resonates in Yao and she shares her emotions through social media. The purpose? To let more people know what's happening around the world and the real dangers posed against humanitarianism.

"Compared to four years ago, I can confidently say that I am a better person," said Yao.

The birth of her first son "Little Potato" last year added another layer of responsibility on Yao's shoulders.

"I want my child to grow up in a better environment, so things I care about were more in detail. For instance, philanthropy projects against child trafficking, the air we breathe and the water we drink, and my visits to the refugees. When he's older, I want to take him with me, to those edges in society and show him what the world outside is really like."

"Responsibility comes with abilities," Yao said she reminds herself this from time to time.