On the morning of October 27, the first lecture of the "901" Classroom, hosted by Ningbo Daily Press Group, officially commenced. Chu Jiwang, founder and honorary chairman of XILIN (Ningbo Ruyi Joint Stock Co,Ltd.), was invited as the keynote speaker. Under the theme "A Winding Path of Life, Seeking the Sunflower," he shared his life experiences and entrepreneurial insights spanning decades with the audience.

        "I am already 85 years old in nominal age and have weathered all kinds of storms. Today, I will report my life experiences to everyone, just for a laugh." With this humble and humorous opening remark from Chu Jiwang, the sharing session officially began.

Youthful Dreams and Breaking Through Adversity

        In 1951, nine-year-old Chu Jiwang entered the first grade. At that time, his family was extremely poor, and on snowy days, he could only go to school in thin clothes. Despite the material scarcity, he achieved excellent grades and planted dreams in his heart: in junior high school, he wanted to be a writer; in high school, he wanted to be a journalist and travel all over China. After graduating from high school in 1963, he began a five-year military career, never putting down books even during rest periods in the army.

        After being discharged in 1968, Chu Jiwang entered a factory as a warehouse keeper. Through his dedication, he gradually grew into the head of the factory. However, During those turbulent years, because he focused on production, having no awareness of the political climate, he was implicated, locked in the factory to write self-criticisms, and lost his freedom for a full 730 days. When others received salary increases, he was denied twice.

        Facing the low point of life, he did not become depressed. During his detention, he learned the craft of painting and began to write novels about health and longevity. Later, the book was published, and the royalties he received happened to make up for his lost wages over the years.

      Looking back on this experience, Chu Jiwang said: "When a person is in trouble, do not lose heart; you must have thoughts." This period also laid a strong psychological foundation for his future courage to take risks and strive.

 1985: Setting Sail against the Tide

         In 1985, inspired by the county party secretary, Chu Jiwang resolutely jumped into the business world and founded the company. With the original intention of "earning foreign exchange and enriching China," he embarked on the journey of XILIN, taking products to open up the world map and doing business in more than 130 countries and regions.

        "If a person is wealthy, there must be a spirit in that wealth." In his speech, Chu Jiwang shared three spirits that entrepreneurs should possess:

        First, the spirit of patriotism. When running a business overseas, one must drive in "four stakes": love the motherland while also serving the host country, respect the host country's systems, employ local talent in the host country, and cash is king.

         Second, the spirit of modesty and prudence. In running a business, one must understand the "three bows" and maintain reverence.

        Third, the spirit of compassion. When a company grows big and strong, it must give back to society. Over the years, XILIN has donated nearly 300 million yuan to public welfare.

An Old Steed in the Stable, Still Aspiring

        Today, at 85, Chu Jiwang has not only led XILIN to the top of the international material handling vehicle industry but has also achieved his youthful goals—becoming a member of the China Writers Association, traveling to 88 countries around the world, and expanding the company's business to many countries globally.

        Even in old age, learning and working know no bounds. As the saying goes, 'One may die content having heard the Way in the morning.’’ Chu Jiwang expressed that as long as he still has the energy, he remains eager to do something meaningful.

        At the end of the sharing session, Chu Jiwang, left these profound words:

       When a person is in difficulty, do not sink into despair; you must have thoughts. When a person is prosperous and smooth, you must have spirit, make decisions cautiously, and take bold steps forward."

        These words are not only a true portrayal of Chu Jiwang himself but also a vivid footnote of how XILIN has weathered storms and reached the world over the decades. In difficult times, break through with thoughts; in good times, safeguard with spirit. This weighty wisdom will continue to guide every XILIN employee to move forward steadily on the road ahead.