Bowls of noodles drive happiness for many households: role model Ma Hua

In 1988, Ma Hua, who was born into a culinary family in northwest China's Gansu Province, founded the Western Mahua Group in Beijing. Over the decades, her restaurants have expanded across the country, and its distinctive northwestern Chinese cuisines have reached dining tables in multiple nations. Reflecting on the early years, Ma Hua, now president of Western Mahua Group, recalled that as she came from a rural area in western China, hard work has never been a problem for her. She also added that her company's growth benefited from the opportunities brought about by China's reform and opening-up.

In September 2024, Ma Hua was awarded the honorary title of the Role Model for Ethnic Unity and Progress. When asked about the recognition, she expressed her hope to give back to her hometown through her efforts. She explained that Western Mahua Group has always prioritized sourcing ingredients from her home regions, hoping more people can experience the unique flavors and culinary traditions of ethnic areas. Additionally, the group remains committed to nurturing talent from Ma's hometown, aiming to help more families get employed or start their own businesses, and then live a prosperous life. (Xue Lingqiao and Lin Mengnan)