Building Bridges, Businesses in China

Tianjin, one of China's largest cities, is a vibrant mix of tradition and modernity. For 36-year-old Russian entrepreneur Svetlana Olkhovikova, the northern city, a 30-minute bullet train ride from Beijing, is no longer just a new home but a place where her dreams have taken root. Once captivated by her grandfather's tales of Confucian wisdom along the Volga river, Olkhovikova now bridges two nations through her entrepreneurial ventures, proving that dreams can indeed transcend borders.

A seed planted by the Volga river

Growing up in a rural village hundreds of kilometers from Moscow, Olkhovikova's childhood was steeped in stories of China. Her grandparents played a pivotal role in shaping her worldview. Her grandmother praised the kindness of Chinese people, while her grandfather often quoted Confucian sayings like, "Is it not a delight to have friends coming from afar?" Even her uncle, an engineer, encouraged her to pursue knowledge as the key to a broader life.

On chilly evenings, with the aroma of her grandfather's green tea filling their home, Olkhovikova imagined a mystical land beyond the Volga river, a land of wisdom, perseverance and opportunity.

Her curiosity about China grew stronger during her time at Voronezh State University, where she studied international relations. In 2008, a six-month exchange program at Qingdao University brought her to China for the first time. While busy learning Mandarin and navigating a new culture, she was struck by the work ethic and optimism of Chinese people. "I realized then that this was a country full of energy and possibilities," she recalled. That brief experience planted a seed of her connection to China.

From Moscow to Tianjin

After earning a master's degree in international relations from MGIMO University in Moscow, Olkhovikova embarked on a decade-long career at a Russian foreign trade company specializing in isotopes. At her work, she noticed the company's strong partnerships with Chinese businesses, which deepened her interest in the country's rapid development.

"Even my family and colleagues could see the immense potential of China's market," she explained. Inspired by the opportunity to explore this potential herself, Olkhovikova made a bold decision. In 2021, she paused her career to pursue an MBA at Tianjin University (TJU), one of China's most prestigious universities.

TJU offered her more than just academic insights. Its practical and hands-on curriculum gave her a deeper understanding of the principles driving China's economic success.

Her MBA thesis became a turning point. Focusing on the demand for high-powered tractors in Russian agriculture, she conducted field research at local agricultural machinery companies in Tianjin. By exploring how Chinese manufacturers could create solutions tailored to Russia's unique farming needs, she developed a "customized production plus localized service" model. This research not only deepened her understanding of cross-border collaboration but also set the stage for her entrepreneurial journey.

A city of opportunities

In September 2023, Olkhovikova launched her first company, Tianjin Ruidehe Machinery Trade Co., Ltd. Just six months later, she founded her second venture, CMR China Isotope Biopharmaceutical Co., Ltd.

Starting a business in a foreign country is never easy, but Olkhovikova was amazed by the support she received in Tianjin. From selecting a company site to navigating work visas and bank accounts, local government departments offered efficient and thoughtful assistance. "I was impressed by how welcoming and supportive everyone was," she said. "The kindness my grandfather always described isn't just a story — it's something you feel every day here."

Tianjin, she explained, feels like a city that truly embraces entrepreneurs. "The business environment here is open, supportive, and filled with opportunity. It's the perfect place for someone with a dream."

Beyond her business ventures, Olkhovikova has fully immersed herself in Chinese culture. She continues to perfect her Mandarin, insisting on speaking Chinese whenever possible to show her respect for the local culture.

"Learning Chinese isn't just about language — it's about understanding the people," she said. "It's my way of saying thank you for the kindness I've experienced here."

The author is a staff member at TJU.

Source: Science and Technology Daily