Ningbo student honored as model youth

Sheng Xuluo, a 15-year-old from Ningbo, Zhejiang province, was recently honored as a model youth of the new era for his heroic actions last summer, when he saved a peer's life on a local basketball court.

While playing basketball at Shengshi Tiancheng Community last July, Sheng noticed a boy suddenly collapse. Recognizing the signs of cardiac arrest, he sprang into action. Without hesitation, he knelt down and began chest compressions, following the "30 compressions and two rescue breaths" cycle. Despite sweat streaming down his face and scraped knees, Sheng maintained the proper technique — arms straight, compressions five centimeters deep — for 11 minutes. He even guided nearby adults to assist until paramedics arrived, buying precious time.

The video of his CPR went viral within two days, reaching over a billion views and sparking a nationwide discussion on emergency response. Inspired by his actions, several schools in Zhejiang added first aid courses to their curricula, and Yinzhou Experimental Middle School launched a Life Education Upgrade Plan to train students.

Since then, Sheng has become a youth ambassador for first aid, conducting community demonstrations, teaching in summer camps, and creating interactive educational content. He also donated his 5,000 yuan ($695) prize from Alibaba Philanthropy to fund AEDs for his community.

Reflecting on his experience, Sheng said, "I feel honored to be recognized. In high school, I want to start a first aid club and, one day, become a doctor to save more lives."