Acknowledgement

“For from Him and through Him and for Him are all things. To Him be the glory forever! Amen.”

Romans 11:36 NIV

This dissertation is my biggest professional accomplishment and a proof of personal resilience. Finishing this master’s degree has not been an easy task. Indeed, it would not have been possible if God had not given me serenity, and strength to overcome each and every obstacle I faced during not only the last academic year, but during my entire life. Thank You for Your amazing grace, everlasting love, great mercy, daily presence in my life and sacrifice in the cross for me.

This dissertation would not have been submitted if I had not had the guidance of Professor Zhou Qiang, my thesis advisor, and the help of Professor Manson. Professor Zhou, thank you very much for all your advices, feedbacks and kind words. You inspired me. Professor Manson, thank you for your patience and feedbacks.

Additionally, I am also grateful for attention and positive contributions I received from many professionals, experts, entrepreneurs, and policy-makers. I would to like to thank them for sharing so many ideas and thoughts during the interviews and for connecting me other people that I should interview too. I also would like to specially thank Mr. José Nelson Bessa Maia from the Brazilian Ministry of Planning. Thank you for all the help, connections and support you provided.

Furthermore, I am extremely thankful to the Yenching Academy, its professors and its staff. Certainly, studying at the YCA has been one of the greatest experiences of my life. Indeed, YCA has provided me not only academic and professional opportunities, but also – and above all – a chance to live together and learn from people from different nationalities, backgrounds, colors, and beliefs. I am honored to have such an international and multicultural “family” here in Beijing.

I am also extremely grateful to my family and friends for all their support and prayers. I am especially grateful to my Mom and to my grandparents – Mrs. Élida and Mr. Bento – for their love, support, care and sacrifices. Although grandma and grandpa are not here anymore, I am sure they would be extremely proud of this academic achievement. Thank you for always support my dreams. I dedicate this dissertation to you, grandpa and grandma. You are the best grandparents a girl could ever have!

Last, but not least, I could not finish my acknowledgements without mentioning my “four-paws” babies. Thank you for cheering-me up with your “meows” and “purrrrs” during our Skype calls; you definitely helped me to overcome many exhaustive and stressful moments. Thank you for your unconditional love. I love you.