**Su Min: The Inspirational Journey of the Road-Tripping 'Auntie' Overcoming Abuse**

In 2024, Su Min emerged as a beacon of hope, inspiring women across China as she navigates life after escaping an abusive marriage while documenting her road-tripping adventures.

In 2020, sixty-year-old Su Min found herself on a journey of self-discovery and liberation after deciding to escape her abusive marriage. Leaving behind her uncomfortable past in her white Volkswagen hatchback, complete with a rooftop tent, she set forth on the open road fueled by a pension and a desire for autonomy. "I finally felt like I could breathe," she reflected, a statement that echoed her growing independence and the promise of a life she desired.

Over four transformative years, Su Min racked up a staggering 180,000 miles, sharing her experiences and struggles with an online audience that grew to millions, who affectionately dubbed her the "road-tripping auntie." Her candid video diaries have not only chronicled her adventures but also resonated profoundly with women who saw reflections of their own struggles within her narrative. By sharing her battles with pain and isolation, Su became an unintentional feminist icon, leading to the release of a popular film, "Like a Rolling Stone," in September 2024, and a spot on the BBC’s list of influential women for the year ahead.

2024 marked a significant turning point for Su, who described her newfound independence as "freedom." Despite lingering marital complications, including a costly divorce settlement, she remains focused on moving forward. "I’m saying goodbye to him," she asserts, highlighting her determination to leave the past behind.

With each passing day on her adventures, Su's social media followers join her virtually as she explores landscapes—from Xinjiang's majestic mountains to the serene waters of Yunnan. The warmth of her community, which continually uplifts her courageous decisions, showcases the bond formed through shared experiences and empathy. Visitors to her platforms leave messages of support: "You are so brave! Keep living for yourself!" and "When I grow up, I want to be free like you."

Su's story transcends personal anecdotes; it reflects a broader commentary on women’s struggles within traditional confines. Once bound by the roles of daughter, wife, and mother amid cultural expectations, Su reveals her difficult marriage marked by violence and emotional manipulation. With resolute candor, she shares insights from her journey, urging women to assert control over their lives: "We women are not just someone's wife or mother… Let's live for ourselves!"

As she continues to document her experiences—cooking meals, learning to surf, or encountering life along the way—Su Min invites her followers to embrace their dreams and navigate their paths to happiness. They are encouraged to recognize their worth, regardless of age, and strive to break free from the chains of traditional expectations. "Love yourself," she urges, embodying the very essence of her inspirational message.

Now, while finalizing her divorce from the man who once tried to control her life, Su stays undeterred, focusing on future travels and expanding her horizons, including aspirations for international adventures. Her story has touched hearts beyond China's borders, revealing a universal truth: "No matter the circumstance, always prioritize your own well-being and happiness." With a spirit unyielded by challenges, Su Min continues to inspire women to claim their freedom and live vibrant lives.