Romeo (center) at the induction ceremony. [Photo/cnnb.com.cn]

Ratelolahy Romeo, a recent international graduate from Ningbo University, has joined a local foreign trade company, fulfilling a dream he once expressed in a heartfelt bilingual letter to the city. Originally from Madagascar, Romeo's journey reflects a deeper bond with Ningbo, not just as a workplace, but as a second home where he discovered Chinese culture and personal growth.

Romeo's affection for Ningbo — its vibrant streets, warm friendships, and flavors of tangyuan (glutinous rice balls) and seafood — captures the city's soft power and cultural inclusivity. It's this human warmth, alongside Ningbo's economic vitality, that convinced him to stay.

As a major port and Belt and Road hub, Ningbo urgently needs globally minded professionals like Romeo, who bring language skills, cultural insight, and an international perspective. His employer noted that foreign talent adds valuable diversity to the business landscape.

Romeo's experience highlights a broader trend: More international youth are choosing to build long-term careers in China. This shift is driven by cities like Ningbo upgrading both infrastructure and social environment to offer safety, efficiency, and opportunity.

Yet, Romeo's arrival is just the beginning. For cities to truly retain global talent, continued efforts in policy, integration, and career support are essential. His story is a testament to the mutual growth between a welcoming city and a hopeful individual.