For three foreigners from different corners of the world, Changzhou has become more than a place to study or work. Over the years, the city has given them opportunities to build careers, make friends and become part of the local community.

David from the UK is the founder of St George Education Center in Changzhou. [Photo/WeChat account: czyouth]

David, a Briton with a background in education, came to China to teach English after graduating from university. He arrived in Changzhou in 2009 with little knowledge of the language and few connections. Football proved to be his first bridge into the city. Playing on local pitches, he made his first friends and, over time, began to feel at home.

More than a decade later, David has embraced the rhythms of everyday life in Changzhou. His career has also taken a remarkable turn. A teaching job was the start of his path to establishing St George Education Center, which now operates four campuses in Changzhou.

For 29-year-old Alhasan from Iraq, Changzhou became part of his journey into the pharmaceutical industry. He arrived in 2023 on a scholarship to pursue a master's degree in pharmaceutical engineering at Changzhou University. After graduating, he stayed in the city and joined a pharmaceutical equipment company, where he works on process research and development.

Alhasan now works at a pharmaceutical equipment company in Changzhou. [Photo/WeChat account: czyouth]

The city's support for international talent has also helped make Changzhou a place where he can see a future. From visa-related services to employment support, Alhasan says the city has made it easier for international graduates to stay.

Outside work, he shares short videos about his life. His biggest achievement as a content creator is not measured in views: five or six of his friends have decided to come to China to study after watching his videos.

Paul, from Cote d'Ivoire, also came to Changzhou University in 2023 to pursue a master's degree in biomedicine. He has since become a familiar face on campus, taking the stage in speech competitions, hosting international cultural festivals and signing up for volunteer activities whenever he can.

Paul participates in a volunteering activity in Changzhou. [Photo/WeChat account: czyouth]

His enthusiasm has extended beyond the university. On April 11, when Changzhou faced Nantong in the opening match of the Jiangsu Football City League, Paul volunteered at the event and, to his surprise, got the chance to provide live commentary.