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Steve Asam (right) walks with another employee in the factory of Chentao Machinery (Zhejiang) in Jiaxing. [Photo/Tide News]

From Cameroon in Africa, to Pinghu, a county-level city of Jiaxing, East China's Zhejiang province, Steve Asam's journey reflects a personal leap across continents and cultures.

With a PhD in coastal engineering from Hohai University, Asam joined Chentao Machinery (Zhejiang) in Xindai town last August as a foreign trade specialist. Despite his impressive academic background, he chose to build his career in a small Chinese town — a decision he sees as driven by opportunity rather than compromise.

His company manufactures food-processing machines like dumpling and bun makers, exporting to over 50 countries and regions across the Americas, Europe, and Africa. With foreign trade accounting for nearly half of its revenue, the company views Asam as a vital bridge to international markets, especially in Africa.

Embracing social media, Asam frequently live-streams from the factory floors and labs, introducing products to global audience. He's learning video editing and graphic design to better present the company's offerings online, gaining social media followers along the way.

Asam is also learning Chinese and has helped establish a bilingual learning group within the company, creating a collaborative environment where Chinese staff improve their English and international staff learn Mandarin. His presence has brought a distinctly global character to the rural firm.

For him, Jiaxing isn't just a workplace — it's a new home and a launchpad for future dreams.