He added that the village's collective income reached 310,000 yuan ($43798.89) in 2024, and that 12 migrant workers — seeing Huang as a role model — have returned to start their own businesses, an encouraging trend that is drawing more young local talent back home.

In the village, Meston saw many well-built public facilities that, he said, embody the hard work of people like Huang, who lived among residents, served them wholeheartedly, and worked to improve their lives. "I think that reflects the overall principle of common prosperity — the idea that the country's development should benefit everyone," he said.

Win Mar Aung, a student from Myanmar, said she felt a personal connection to Huang's story. Also born in a mountain village, she especially admires Huang's strong sense of duty to her community.