Every day at 7 AM, Wang Chang begins his routine with purpose. He hops on the subway to school and work, rain or shine, tired or energized, ready to take on whatever the day holds. His schedule is packed, but he tackles it all with determination and joy.
At school, Wang stays active both academically and physically. On this particular day, he started with badminton practice sharpening his footwork, agility, and both forehand and backhand techniques.
But Wang’s education goes far beyond textbooks. His school offers a range of classes that include life skills and hands-on learning.
Wang also works at a local coffee shop that employs individuals both with and without intellectual disabilities. It’s more than just a job for him; it’s a space where he’s grown tremendously in confidence and skill. Some days, he’s at the counter pulling espresso shots. Other days, he’s in the kitchen perfecting pastries and snacks.
His schedule can vary. On this day, he worked a midday shift before returning to school, transitioning seamlessly from the coffee shop to the classroom. He ended his academic day with a soap-making class, learning about measurements, ingredients, and how chemistry can be both creative and useful.
Later, he had the opportunity to lead. Drawing from his experience at the coffee shop, Wang taught a cooking class, guiding students through how to make one of their best-selling snacks: Snowflake Crisps. It was a proud moment, one that highlighted his growth and leadership.
After such a full day, Wang looked forward to winding down with his family, especially spending time with his little sister. But this wasn’t just any day.
Wang had something big to prepare for. He was chosen to attend the Global Youth Leadership Summit at the Special Olympics World Winter Games, his first international trip and a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to connect with more than 50 youth leaders from over 25 countries.
Wang traveled by train from Hangzhou to Shanghai and then flew to Turin for the Summit. During the three-days that he was in Turin, Wang participated in leadership workshops, sessions on project management, sustainability, and inclusive innovation. He even spoke at a session and presented a powerful Innovation Project focused on inclusive employment, a vision that will soon come to life in his community in China. He capped off the experience with a special performance at the Closing Ceremonies.
Now back home, Wang is putting everything he learned into action. Alongside his team, he’s building a network to connect schools, businesses, and local organizations, working to create vocational training, empower young leaders, and expand inclusive employment. His goal? A sustainable future where youth with intellectual disabilities are not just included but celebrated.
Wang Chang’s journey is far from over, but one thing is clear, he’s already making a global impact.
