How 5D4N in China Changed My Heart

Hope For Pearl, 2025

Written in the classroom of Pearl Class. 

“The Pearl Spirit is built on four qualities:

The strength to endure challenges, the ambition to keep improving, the heart to stay grateful, and the willingness to serve others.”

I went on a 5D4N mission trip to Chang Ning, China, for the Hope For Pearl project, thinking I’d be a giver of hope and inspiration. Instead, I returned feeling more hopeful and inspired than ever. 

This project supports academically strong students from underprivileged backgrounds in China by funding their education through Pearl Classes (珍珠班) – where schools waive tuition and accommodation fees for three years.

With donations, each Pearl receives an annual living allowance of 2,500 yuan (SGD460), totalling 7,500 yuan (SGD1380) over three years. Many live hours away from school, and this support gives them a real chance to break free from generational poverty.

Beyond financial aid, the project nurtures their character, career planning, and mental well-being. Since 2004, nearly 90,000 Pearls have been supported. Since 2015, AAG has sponsored 880 Pearls.

Before this trip, I thought Hope For Pearl was simply about funding education. But after spending time with the students and the Xin Hua Education Foundation team, I realised – it’s so much more.

We’re not just giving them money. We’re giving them friendship, hope, and love.

I was welcomed with such warmth by the Pearls, even though it was my first time meeting them. It wasn’t just a sponsor-recipient relationship – it felt like family.

That’s what makes Hope For Pearl so special.

3 Big Lessons This Trip Taught Me

Showing up matters.

These pearls have little contact with people outside school. Many see their families only once a month or even just once a year during Chinese New Year.

They study from 7AM to 10PM daily, preparing for exams. Yet, when we showed up, their faces lit up with joy. To us, it was just a few days, but to them, it was the highlight of their year — something they had been eagerly waiting for.

击鼓的人不知道击鼓声

可以传多远.

During a school visit, we introduced the concept of vision boards. A student shared how she had never dared to dream about her future — until that moment. 

As she mapped out her goals, she dreamed bigger each time. She crossed out her initial small dreams and replaced them with bolder aspirations. She grew the courage to ask herself - is this all that I am?

Her words stayed with me. I never realised how something as simple as an activity or a conversation could ignite such deep inspiration in someone. We truly never know the impact we have on others.

Money holds a new meaning.

This trip was fully self-funded. 

Before, money to me was about options and comfort. But now, it represents opportunities for others. 

With more, I can:

• Sponsor more Pearls for education

• Show up for them every year, reminding them they’re seen, cared for, and deeply loved

These students are just like us. The only difference? 

We were born into privilege.

They deserve a fair chance at life, too.

Hope For Pearl changed my heart.

This journey was not just about giving — it was about learning, connecting, and loving. I came back with a full heart, knowing that education, presence, and kindness can truly change lives.

Hope For Pearl isn’t just a project. And I’m so grateful to be part of it.

Would you join me in making a difference?