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2026.08.24 18:38 GMT+8

Beyond desert trees: An American teacher's China journey

Updated 2026.08.24 18:38 GMT+8
World Insight with Tian Wei

American middle school teacher Ronald Sakolsky was hardly known anywhere in China until the story of a desert turning green drew attention. More than two decades ago, Sakolsky raised $5,000 to support a Chinese couple fighting desertification in Inner Mongolia. What began as a simple act of kindness has since grown into a lasting symbol of China-US friendship. Earlier, CGTN host Tian Wei spoke with Ronald about how he became part of this remarkable story. In this second conversation, we explore his life, family, journey to China, and the challenges that have shaped him. Like all of us, Ronald continues to search for meaning and answers along the way. He plans to return to Inner Mongolia later this year – to the very place where he helped plant hope. The trees have grown, but the greatest legacy may be the simple belief that one act of kindness can take root, cross oceans, and change lives. 

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