Xihaigu, Ningxia Hui autonomous region, was labeled the "most unfit place for human settlement" by the United Nations in 1972 because of its barren land, droughts and fragile ecological environment. Things started to change when Minning town was established in 1997 near the Yellow River. It would be the new home of people transplanted from harsh Xihaigu.

Wu Juan was among the people who were relocated to Minning, and she embarked on a new life. In 1999, at age 7, she moved to Minning's Wuhe village with members of her family.

As a child, Wu was shy. When she met strangers, she would stand in a corner instead of communicating. The time she most loved was Spring Festival, as it was the only time in a year that her parents would return from the city with candy and new clothes.

Her interest in public speaking was triggered by her English teacher.