Deng Jilian, an ordinary woman in Yuping County, Southwest China's Guizhou Province, was laid-off due to a factory restructuring in 2001.

Deng had to go to Guiyang City, capital of Guizhou Province, with her husband to make a living. Due to her age, low education and big differences in living habits in her new environment, Deng thought there was no hope of living a better life. 

But thankfully, something turned out right in December 2009. Deng received a phone call from the Women's Federation of Yuping County when she almost lost confidence in her life.

The federation was holding housekeeping training for local women, and Deng did not expect that this opportunity would bring a new direction in her life.

From the training, Deng learned professional knowledge in housekeeping, but more importantly, she had a new understanding of herself and the future. "The housekeeping training gave me a glimmer of hope in despair and made me realize that I can realize my value through hard work," Deng said with gratitude. 

Being diligent and eager to learn, she stood out quickly. In her view, housekeeping is not only doing simple work such as laundry, cooking and cleaning, but an occupation that frees people from housework worries and brings benefits to communities.

Deng cherished every job opportunity and all the families she served gave her high recognition for her kindness and attentive work.

"My clients and I became friends. They were comfortable in giving me keys when they were not at home. The trust gives me more confidence and impetus to do better in the housekeeping service," Deng said.

With solid skills and rich experience, Deng hoped to help other impoverished women like her live a different life. Making tremendous efforts to enhance her professional knowledge and skills, she became a professional housekeeping trainer.

Since 2012, Deng has trained more than 6,000 women. She taught the students all her skills and ways to get along with clients, and encouraged them to have confidence in living a better life through housekeeping service. 

In 2013, Deng won the gold prize in the housekeeping service category in the first "Star of Skills" contest in Guiyang; in 2015, she was awarded the honorable title of "Most Beautiful Housekeeper" in Guizhou Province.

Deng has a strong belief in and passion for her profession. Deng believes that through the joint efforts of society and with trust, understanding and respect, the housekeeping industry will have bright prospects in the future.

(Women of China)