The Official Magazine of IAAPA
For Chimelong, the commitment is both professional and personal. Company founder Su Zhigang’s story illuminates the importance of education and opportunity. Born into an under-resourced rural family in southern China, financial constraints forced him to leave school at 14 to support his family. Despite this setback, “his burning desire for knowledge never wavered—it remained deeply rooted in his heart,” shares a Chimelong representative.
That determination guided him toward founding Chimelong Group in 1989. Over the last 36 years, the enterprise has grown into an operation employing 20,000 people that welcomes 40 million annual visitors across its three destination resorts. However, the success has come with challenges. “The biggest challenge throughout its development was the shortage of experienced manpower and talent … We have collaborated closely and consistently with top professionals from every sector of the theme park industry, both domestic and international,” the company explains. That collaborative spirit aligns with the mission of the IAAPA Foundation.
“The IAAPA Foundation’s commitment of encouraging and supporting young talent for higher education in our industry aligns perfectly with Chimelong’s philosophy of valuing and nurturing human resources,” shares the company.
Beyond this global partnership, Chimelong has long invested in education close to home. The company established Chimelong Hongzhi School in rural Qingyuan City and supported funds at Peking University and Sun Yat-sen University. “From a child who could not afford schooling to someone now empowering youngsters’ education and nurturing industry professionals, this journey has been profoundly meaningful,” says Su.
The IAAPA Foundation donation carries a regional focus as well. “Chimelong Group’s donation aims to extend its funding programs to institutions in Asia. This will allow continued injection of young talents into our industry and to ensure sustainable growth globally and in the region,” says Chimelong.
Chimelong’s support of the IAAPA Foundation highlights the vital role of education, collaboration, and investment in people as drivers of long-term industry growth. Su encourages his industry peers to consider similar action. “The IAAPA Foundation is dedicated to the systematic cultivation of professionals in our industry, having established itself as a vital platform for advancing high-quality development on a global basis.”
