Su Min: The Journey of China's Road-Tripping 'Auntie' to Freedom

After escaping an abusive marriage, Su Min embarked on a road trip across China that not only granted her freedom but also resonated with countless women seeking similar liberation. Her viral video diaries reflect her journey and advocate for female independence, culminating in her recent feature film and recognition as a beacon of hope for many.

Su Min, a 60-year-old grandmother, has become a symbol of empowerment for women in China as she shares her transformative journey of self-discovery on the open road. Initially seeking an escape from an abusive husband, Su Min set out in 2020 in her white Volkswagen hatchback, equipped with a rooftop tent and her pension savings. "I felt like I could finally catch my breath," she recalls of the moment she began her new life. Through four years and 180,000 miles of travel, her video diaries have garnered a massive following, earning her the affectionate title of "road-tripping auntie" among millions of online cheerleaders.

Not only is her compelling story featured in a recently released film titled *Like a Rolling Stone*, but it also landed her a spot on BBC's list of the 100 inspiring women in 2024. When asked to define her year, she chooses "freedom" as the word that encapsulates her experiences. "As soon as I started driving, I felt freer," she told the BBC from Shenyang, prior to heading south for the winter in her new SUV and caravan.

The story takes on added significance as Su Min finally filed for divorce in 2024, marking another pivotal moment in her newfound liberation. The divorce process, complicated by her husband's initial refusal unless compensated, has seen her agree to a settlement of 160,000 yuan (about $21,900). However, she remains optimistic, determined to forge ahead and leave her past behind: "I'm saying goodbye to him."

Life on the road has allowed Su Min to focus on herself, documenting her experiences and engaging her audience in her daily adventures. Her videos offer glimpses of breathtaking landscapes and candid reflections, inspiring numerous women to break free from similar situations. Many of her followers express envy and admiration, embracing her message of self-love and independence. Comments flood in, with one follower writing, "You're so brave! You chose to break free," while another adds, "We women are not just someone's wife or mother… Let's live for ourselves!"

Having endured years of emotional and physical abuse, Su Min reflected on her past with vulnerability. Her accounts of life within an oppressive marriage resonate deeply with many, shedding light on the societal pressures placed on women in China. She shares that her husband, who has openly admitted to his abusive behavior, perpetuated a cycle of violence that had profound impacts on her self-worth.

Growing up in Tibet and later moving to Henan, Su Min’s marriage was arranged, a common practice at the time. As a traditional woman, she struggled for decades under the weight of societal norms and family duties, believing for years that she had to endure for the sake of her child. Yet, the spark for her journey emerged from an inspiring social media video of van life, igniting her determination to seek a life beyond her limitations.

In September 2020, she drove away from her marital home without a backward glance, covering more than 400 cities and 20 provinces across China. The message of her journey resonates broadly, reflecting her truth that women too can aspire to find their own liberation. In her inspirational discussions, Su Min often reminds other women that “it's never too late” to pursue their dreams, no matter their age.

Amid her traveling adventures, she continues to work on finalizing her divorce, navigating Chinese legal hurdles while planning more journeys. Despite uncertainties related to language and international travel, Su Min’s belief in self-love and resilience remains unwavering. "No matter what environment you are in, you must be good to yourself," she advises. Her journey, marked by challenges and triumphs, stands as a testament to the strength of women who dare to define their own lives in the face of adversity.