Zhang Yu JeniZhang13@163.com MOVING to Shenzhen after receiving a job offer as a choreographer, Nataliia Shtanko, from Ukraine, has found more than just a place to live in this bustling metropolis. She has discovered a second home, enchanted by the city’s vibrant energy and dynamic pulse. For more than a decade, Shenzhen has been a canvas where she has painted a vibrant picture of personal development. When her contract ended as a choreographer at Shenzhen Happy Valley, a popular theme park, Nataliia boldly decided to stay in the city, which was her first destination in China. Here, she immersed herself in the local culture and embarked on entrepreneurial pursuits. ‘On the right path’ For Nataliia, Shenzhen is a city that she now considers her second home. She describes the city as a youthful, ambitious individual who is constantly evolving and reaching for greater heights. “I consider Shenzhen my second hometown now,” Nataliia said with a smile, adding that many of her friends often joke about her being a true Shenzhener. Reflecting on Shenzhen’s transformation, Nataliia likens the city to a maturing individual. “When I first arrived here, Shenzhen was like a young, inexperienced, cute friend — open and friendly to all,” she shared. “Today, it’s like a young, ambitious person striving to achieve more.” According to Nataliia, Shenzhen is brimming with energy and an ever-growing network of connections. The city is expanding its global presence, recognition, and fame. Most importantly, she sees herself in Shenzhen’s reflection. Witnessing the city’s growth and transformation has given her a profound sense of pride because she knows she is evolving in tandem with the city. “It’s a very nice feeling of pride to be growing alongside this city, feeling like you are part of the community and its energy. It’s a sense of being on the right path,” she said. In 2021, Nataliia founded a company called Meilong, which means beautiful dragon in Chinese. It is a testament to her diverse interests and the nurturing environment of Shenzhen. The company started with event planning and organizing. But as her reputation as a yoga teacher grew, Nataliia seamlessly integrated that passion into her business model. In the future, Meilong is poised to expand into imports and exports. According to Nataliia, the name “Meilong” holds a special meaning. The dragon, which represents her Chinese zodiac sign and symbolizes the prosperity and protection that she hopes the animal brings, is combined with beauty and grace. As for the future, Nataliia adopts a pragmatic yet hopeful approach. “Without any extra plans, I’m already here for quite a long time. So why do I need to postpone my growth, my dreams?” she asked. For the Ukrainian entrepreneur, the present is where her dreams are realized, and Shenzhen is the backdrop to her ongoing story of personal growth and self-discovery. Spreading wellness Nataliia’s love for Shenzhen is evident as she talks about her experiences, which have led her to not only learn the thousand-year-old hatha yoga but also become a yoga teacher. Introduced to classical dance at the tender age of 5 by her mother, dance has become an integral part of her life. However, life took an unexpected turn when Nataliia, who is also interested in psychology, encountered yoga. “Yoga and psychology, in my view, complement each other in helping people,” she said. The realization that yoga could work on both the body and mind steered her to a career in yoga, and she was soon invited to instruct yoga classes. According to Nataliia, her approach to teaching yoga is unique and adaptable, drawing from various styles and techniques that she has learned throughout her travels. “I believe that yoga is not about achievements. It’s about to be functional, to be healthy, to be well connected, and to become a better version of yourself than you were yesterday,” the certified yoga teacher explained. Nataliia said she is grateful for the opportunity to help others through yoga. She has taught at various locations, including the Nanshan International Cultural Exchange & Service Center, and has found great joy in bringing value to her students’ lives. “I feel that it is my mission to be helpful to people, to bring something valuable to this planet, to help people really enjoy their lives, their bodies, and their experiences, and to have this feeling of self-improvement,” she said. | 