An American man has captivated many with his inspiring tale of becoming a “foreign village chief” in the picturesque southwestern Yunnan province, following his adventurous exploration of 110 countries and his studies in China.
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Born in 1962 to a humble family in Chicago, Brian Linden worked night shifts cleaning carpets to finance his education at Northeastern Illinois University after completing secondary school.
His life took a significant turn when he discovered scholarships offered by the Chinese government for foreign students. Recognising this rare opportunity, he nervously submitted his application to a Chinese embassy in the US.
“In the 1980s, as China was just beginning its reforms and emerging from being one of the poorest countries while the US was among the richest, receiving the decision to sponsor my education as a struggling American youth was the most precious gift I’ve ever received. That generous act inspired me to return to China,” Linden reflected during an interview with Chinanews.com.
While attending Beijing Language and Culture University, Linden lived a vibrant and diverse life.
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He not only mastered Mandarin but also acted in the film He Came From Across the Pacific and worked at CBS News, where he conducted interviews with Chinese leaders, including Deng Xiaoping.