Hello everyone,
It’s spotlight time again! Now you don’t have to look far in the CC long to see that one of our most discussed topics is the Coronavirus. We know what an impact it is having on hosts and guests all around the world and is a global challenge. So for our February Community Spotlight we thought we would talk to a fellow host based in China, where it is particularly difficult for our host community. Introducing…
Sijiu0
Sijiu is an active offline community leader in Shanghai, since 2018 she has held 13 offline events to engage with local hosts, sharing host experiences and helping new hosts.
- How long have you been hosting for and why did you first start?
I was totally impressed by my host’s sharing of his lifestyle during my first Airbnb experience in Chengdu. Since then, I neve left Airbnb when I traveled. When I first had a room available in my studio, I quickly started to begin my Airbnb host journey.
I moved out of my studio (mentioned above) which was my first Airbnb listing. But I never wanted to stop hosting, so, I am now hosting a private room in my own apartment, welcome guests from all over the world.
- When you are not hosting, what do you like doing?
In my leisure time, I like to travel, and I am also passionate about some sports that can be close to nature, such as diving and skiing. But I am still a freshman.
- If you could have lunch with a famous person (past or present), who would it be and why?
If possible, I hope to have the opportunity to have lunch with Nathan Blecharczyk, the founder of Airbnb. I was deeply attracted by this concept of sharing your travel when I first met Airbnb. In the past few years, I became a host, then superhost and then a china community leader, and as a huge fan, I have a deeper understanding about belonging anywhere.
- What’s your food weakness?
Not a problem for me. I’m a foodie and I love everything.
- Are you more of a book or film person? What did you last read/watch?
I prefer movies. Also, I am reading some books about psychology recently. Because I hope to better adjust myself and to do something for China community during this situation. By the way, I recommend " Good Will Hunting " for the whole Airbnb community, hoping everyone can find what your dream life and love is
- Are you active in the local community? What does it mean to you?
I have actively participated in host community events since 2018. I figured out the host community is a great place for me to meet other hosts, improve the way we host together. In 2018, I was honored to be invited to become a community leader in Shanghai. I started to organize my events where I can share my ideas on hosting with other hosts. In the community, it is all about sharing, making friends, and supporting each other, which I love so much.
- Have you heard how hosts are helping in the local area during the Coronavirus?
China hosts demonstrated great power and kindness truly representing the spirit of community. Wuhan hosts opened free accommodations for medical workers; Shanghai hosts filmed inspirational videos for the community… Their stories inspired the entire community, guests, and even the society.
...How has Sijiu been getting involved...
After CoV happened, she knew it’s been very challenging for many hosts, so she came up with an idea to do online instructional courses that could support other hosts. The Covid-19 has impacted China hosts for a month, and so she set up 3 online sharing events with a few other community leaders through live-streaming. Almost 300 hosts participated in her live-streaming courses and received great support from the community. She also proactively listened to hosts and sent out surveys to learn what kind of help they may need, and to decide the topics of the future courses accordingly.
Invitation of Sijiu’s online sharing event with topic “the analysis of future trend of Minsu & hospitality industry”
- Why is it important that the host community comes together?
During this tough time, community is even more important than ever. With the strength of everyone in the community together, China hosts can definitely fight against this and host their guests with love again.
Thank you @Siji0 for taking the time to speak with us, it’s incredible to hear how important community it is at times like this.