The torch relay for the upcoming 19th Hangzhou Asian Games kicked off at Heyi Park in Taizhou city, Zhejiang province on Sept 14, with the games themselves due to start in Hangzhou, capital of the province on Sept 23 and to run through to Oct 8.

A total of 170 torchbearers participated in the relay, including Lu Jingliang, a businessman of Zhuang ethnic group from Luofu town in Nandan county, Hechi city.

Along with his partners, he established Taizhou Hale Footwear, which has grown into a medium-sized footwear manufacturer with an average annual output value of nearly 80 million yuan ($11 million) and employs over 200 staff members.

Lu has experienced countless challenges in his personal growth. He once considered giving up his studies due to his father's unexpected disability.

However, the support of his fellow villagers allowed him to continue with his education. Since then, he has never missed any learning opportunities, going from having a zero knowledge of English to fluent communications with foreign businessmen.

After achieving success in his business, his first thought was to help fellow ethnic minorities who go through similar struggles.

He has provided assistance to more than 10 ethnic minority shoe manufacturers, ultimately helping over 200 people from the groups to find employment.

He has also established long-term processing cooperation partnerships with over 100 shoe companies, driving the development of related industries.

Lu Jingliang (R) talks with a colleague at his shoe factory. [Photo/Hechi Daily]