By Yan Wei

Jigme Dorje， Du Fuguo and Peng Shilu. These names may sound unfamiliar to the foreign ear， but when their stories are told， everyone will find in them qualities they can identify with.

Jigme Dorje is an ethnic Tibetan postal vehicle driver in Sichuan Province. For more than 30 years， he has risked his life traversing a dangerous route on average 3，500 meters above sea level. Du lost his eyes and forearms trying to protect his fellow soldier in an explosion during a mine clearance operation. Peng was a scientist who played a key role in the development of Chinas nuclear submarines and power plants.

They are among the 124 individuals and teams recognized as role models of the times. Since 2014， this title has been conferred to those who embody admirable characteristics.

Their good deeds have been publicized in traditional as well as new media， drawing an outpour of attention， empathy and respect. An exhibition recently opened in Beijing to reaffirm the relevance of their virtues. It is important to understand that the commendation of role models is not only a Chinese tradition， but is also part of a worldwide trend celebrating heroism.

People everywhere revere heroes， those demonstrating extraordinary courage and integrity. Like in other countries， heroes are made in China every day： Their occupations are varied； their actions are diverse； and while some are famous， most are not. Nevertheless， they all have something in common， namely a commitment to the public interest. They have contributed to society through hard work and helped others， and their nation at large， do better， by sacrificing themselves in one way or another. They put the greater good above their personal interests， caring little about fame or wealth.

In a nutshell， the heroes are better versions of us. In recent decades， Chinas rapid economic growth has fueled the rise of consumerism. In certain quarters， good virtues are being eroded with unwholesome practices such as the pursuit of extravagant lifestyles sparking concern. Against this backdrop， it is only apt to reflect on the ethos of the Chinese nation and revisit the most highly prized traits as exemplified by the role models. By promoting awareness of what they have done and why， society can be imbued with positive moral and ethical values and a sense of purpose in this fast-changing world.

International observers interested in China also have a reason to get to know these Chinese heroes. One of the most effective ways of gaining an authentic picture of a country is through understanding its people as they personify the national character.