On 22nd October, under the organization of the Friends of Hiba (FoH), teachers, pupils, and parents participated in a public welfare walk around Zilang Lake. More than 70 families, totalling over 200 people, participated in the event. Whether it was the enthusiastic teachers and pupils or the busy parents who put aside their work, they all willingly participated in this special event. It was not just a challenge to oneself, a natural parent-child time, or a joyful community activity, but also demonstrated the belief and responsibility of the Hiba family in serving and giving back to the community.
On the faces of every Hiba pupil who participated in the walk, one could see the sweat shining under the sun and the unwavering perseverance between their eyebrows. For them, this was a test of endurance, physical strength, and resilience. Facing the challenge, Hiba pupils never fear.
From the initial excitement of experiencing something new, to the challenge of pushing oneself during the journey, to the exhilaration of crossing the finish line and wearing the medal around their necks, the children gained much more than just physical and personal development. In a world where electronic screens dominate our lives, the opportunity to put down our phones and immerse ourselves in nature is especially precious. A close encounter with nature can open up our horizons, spark curiosity, and recharge our energy for the next journey of exploring the unknown.
"I am very happy that my parents came back to hike with me on the weekend," said a Hiba pupil, overflowing with joy. "During the two-hour hike, we didn't have our phones and completely enjoyed our parent-child time," said a Hiba parent.
Finding a sense of belonging in the community
"Part of being a new school is to create a community where everyone is involved, everybody feels wanted and part of this special growing area in Nantong" said Simon Kenworthy, Master of Nantong Hiba School, who was also a participant in this event.
This event was organised by our Friends of Hiba Committee, which is composed of Hiba parents who are always busy during major school events. Thanks to their good organisation, this hiking activity, with many participants, was well-attended and everything was taken care of, from the route around the lake to the equipment provided. With the strong support of the Friends of Hiba, the active cooperation of the school, and the wholehearted participation of the pupils, every activity at Hiba is splendid and unforgettable, which is also the reason why the Hiba community is thriving.
Gathering small kindness to achieve the journey of love
This event around the lake had a more important significance for all participants. This is also the main reason why teachers, pupils, and parents give up their weekend rest and participate in it, which is for public welfare donations. A total of 15,738 yuan was raised for the Nantong Special Education Centre.
For the pupils of Hiba, charitable service is not a distant and vague concept, but a tangible existence that is integrated into daily learning and life. We always pay attention to social issues and initiate discussions at appropriate times, guiding pupils to enter the real society and care for special groups that need help. This event is an opportunity for pupils to help others with their own strength. In the process of personal practice, pupils will experience the values of "Kindness, Responsibility, Respect ,courage, and integrity" , and they will also feel the social responsibility they bear on their shoulders, bringing more positive changes towards kindness and beauty to the world in the future.
Although the event has ended, it will leave echoes in the hearts of pupils, teachers, and parents, becoming a beautiful public welfare memory of accumulating small kindness and achieving great love.
