Legless shoemaker's video wins heartsAlumni association plans to invite talented and gritty man to give a speech

China Daily

30th June 2025

Legless shoemaker's video wins hearts

Alumni association plans to invite talented and gritty man to give a speech

By Zheng Caixiong

Huang Huaquan, a 44-year-old legless shoemaker from Yangming township in Heping county, Guangdong province, has captured the hearts of many with his inspiring journey. Despite dreaming of giving a speech at Harvard, Huang's true desire is to lead a simple life — getting married and having children like his peers.

Currently recovering from a kidney stone surgery at home, Huang said he hoped to soon return to his shoe repair stall, where he usually earns between 200 and 300 yuan ($28-42) a day.

Huang became known, locally and online, after he posted a video online in English, sharing his dream of giving a speech at the prestigious university.

https://www.chinadaily.com.cn/a/202506/30/WS6861e374a31000e9a57393ab.html