At 77 years old, Billy Wang, a Chinese American, has found a new purpose in Ukraine instead of enjoying retirement in Texas. His journey began when he sold his house and car at the age of 70 to volunteer and teach in a poverty-stricken area of Guangdong Province, China. However, when the Russia-Ukraine war erupted on February 24, 2022, his sense of justice compelled him to travel to Kyiv. Initially, he aimed to enlist in the military, but due to his age, he was gently discouraged. Instead, he made his way to Odesa, where he connected with other Chinese volunteers and contributed in various ways, from caring for stray animals affected by the war to raising funds for soldiers and refugees, and ultimately teaching free English classes to young Ukrainians.

Billy, originally from Beijing, moved to the U.S. over 30 years ago to earn his MBA. He worked as a project manager in the industrial sector and became actively involved in charitable causes after the September 11 attacks. Even after retiring at 70, he was determined to stay engaged. He sold all of his properties in the U.S. and returned to Guangdong, where he had previously dedicated years to teaching, ultimately even contributing to the construction of a school.

On the day the Russian invasion began, Wang faced significant challenges as he navigated travel restrictions in China due to the pandemic. He reflected on the effort it took to get from Shanghai to Kyiv, stating that despite initially wanting to fight, he was turned away due to his age. Nevertheless, he chose to stay in Ukraine, saying, “Wherever there is a need for volunteers, that’s where I go.”

Shortly after arriving in Kyiv, he learned about a nonprofit organization called “Anomaly,” which had been working to collect and translate news to provide a clearer picture of the war’s reality. Because they needed someone for ongoing Chinese translation, Billy took on the role and has been doing it for the past two years. He believes in the power of information and hopes to provide reliable sources to readers in mainland China, considering this to be his “first volunteer task every day.”

In addition to translating daily news, Billy is involved in various volunteer activities, such as fundraising for military supplies, medical needs, and assisting refugee families. One of his proudest contributions has been organizing free English classes for Ukrainian youth every weekend over the past year.

With the help of fellow volunteers, he found suitable locations and eager students for his classes. Each weekend, he conducts two-hour English sessions, teaching that the desire to learn the language extends beyond personal interest; it’s crucial for a country in conflict that is receiving international aid. For instance, understanding English is essential for Ukrainian pilots being trained on F16 fighter jets, and it fosters communication with international volunteers, which is vital for effective post-war reconstruction efforts. The enthusiasm for learning among Ukraine’s youth has been remarkably high.

In addition to teaching, Billy introduces his students to “Edelweiss,” a famous song from “The Sound of Music,” which symbolizes Austrian resilience against Nazi occupation during World War II. He draws parallels between the song’s themes and the current situation of the Ukrainian people, expressing how he and his students are moved to tears when they sing, especially the lines, “Edelweiss, Edelweiss, forever bless my homeland.”

Billy has resolved to continue his efforts for as long as the war persists. “As long as I’m alive and healthy, I will keep going. I may not be on the front lines, but I will do what I can from the home front. I take pride in staying active and making a difference,” he stated resolutely.