For Sara-Jane Valle, the leap from the glamour of the Miss World stage to the gritty reality of construction sites was bridged by China’s ambitious Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). Now serving as the administrative manager for China Railway Construction Caribbean Company, she has become an unlikely symbol of the infrastructure drive’s local integration and human impact.

“The pageant taught me how to present myself, but working here has taught me how to create value,” said Valle, who represented Trinidad and Tobago in the global contest. Her daily work connects her to transformative projects: the new Demerara River Bridge in Guyana, the Port of Spain General Hospital Central Block, and the Tobago International Airport.

Her role involves mediating between cultures, ensuring smooth communication between Chinese colleagues and Caribbean communities. “I listen carefully to understand the differences and find common ground,” she noted, highlighting the practical application of China’s “people-oriented” philosophy in complex cross-border projects.

Valle is a keen observer of the BRI’s ripple effects, especially for women. She argues that reliable hospitals, libraries, and shorter commutes—direct outcomes of improved infrastructure—create safer environments and provide measurable benefits by expanding educational and job opportunities for women. “China’s approach is pragmatic: it gives people the tools, space, and confidence to build a better life themselves,” she said.

This focus on tangible, long-term gains, Valle suggests, is why the Belt and Road resonates deeply in the region. It’s not just about steel and concrete, but about forging trust and reshaping lifestyles—one bridge, hospital, and airport at a time.Editor/Cao Tianyi