In recognition of the remarkable contributions made by expats to the progress of East China's Shanghai, the Foreign Affairs Office of Shanghai Municipal People's Government held the 2023 Presentation Ceremony of Shanghai Magnolia Silver Award on Dec 3.

Two outstanding expats from the city's Changning district were recognised for their impactful efforts: Anu Rathninde, president of Johnson Controls Asia Pacific and Linda Painan, head of The Expatriate Center, a nonprofit organisation in Shanghai.

Anu Rathninde, president of Johnson Controls Asia Pacific. [Photo/WeChat account: shchangning]

Anu Rathninde, president of Johnson Controls Asia Pacific, has been instrumental in facilitating collaboration with Shanghai authorities and partners, driving the company's business development in China and the Asia-Pacific region. As a representative of Johnson Controls, he showcased the company's commitment to the Shanghai and Chinese markets at the China International Import Expo and proactively participated in initiatives promoting green development in Shanghai.

Linda Painan, head of The Expatriate Center, a nonprofit organisation in Shanghai. [Photo/WeChat account: shchangning]

Linda Painan leads The Expatriate Center, a nonprofit organisation in Shanghai that aims to form a multilateral bridge among expats, Chinese returnees and the government. Over the past five years, she has effectively utilised the centre to provide warmth and support, helping foreign individuals better integrate into and feel rooted in Shanghai.

Source: " shchangning" WeChat account