From star student to Shanghai Citizen

As one of the first Turkish students to receive a Chinese government scholarship to study in China, Rona arrived in 1983, just in time to witness the dramatic social changes and economic development. He later pursued a master's degree in ancient Chinese history at the University of Wuhan, the capital of Hubei province.

Rona describes that time as "an adventure" - on the one hand, he was able to get to know a country that was a mystery to his parents' generation, but on the other, as a foreigner he faced many uncertainties.

"At that time, no one knew exactly what would be brought by the reform and opening-up policy," he says. "Unlike expats who regarded China as a market where they could make money and find new opportunities, I came here simply because I was attracted by Chinese culture.

"I think it's a shame if you only think of China as a gold mine. China is not a wallet. It has a profound culture heritage. If you come here just for money, then you do it a great injustice."

Rona has never forgotten his responsibilities as a citizen of Shanghai, and he has done everything he can to help the city and its residents. "Several of my friends call me 'Woodpecker', because I am constantly pecking at all the mistakes that damage the images of Shanghai or China," he says.

During his leisure time, he leads teams down the city's streets, correcting misspelled English words on signs, directing traffic during the rush hour, and teaching English and etiquette to taxi drivers.

He also participates in a wide range of charitable activities, provides suggestions to the local government, and attends meetings hosted by the CPPCC Shanghai Committee, offering advice in fields as diverse as finance and social issues.

Shortly after settling in the city, he began funding 10 students from poor families per year. That lasted for a decade, but he continues to perform charitable acts; for example, if he sees a TV report about people in need he donates money immediately.

"After I got the Shanghai Magnolia Golden Award - a government award for foreigners who have contributed to Shanghai - it took another seven years to gain the title 'Honorary citizen of Shanghai'," he adds. "And I try to be worthy of this high title by supporting Shanghai and China in various ways."

Rona has a son who grew up in China, but has settled in Canada. Like his father, the boy chose to settle in a different country instead of staying in the place in which he grew up.

"I totally support him, just like my parents supported me when I decided to move to China," he says. "I love Shanghai, I love China, and I am happy to stay here for the rest of my life."