Bondi Massimo
Society
By Jin Yingying
Bondi Massimo, an Italian student affectionately known as “Xiao Ma” by his mentor, Professor Fang Jianqiao, has realized his dream of bringing Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) to Africa.
After nine years of dedicated study in Hangzhou--earning both a Master’s degree and Ph.D. in Acupuncture and Massage at Zhejiang Chinese Medical University--Massimo opened his own TCM clinic in Mauritius earlier this year.
Encouraged and guided by Professor Fang, a renowned national TCM master, Massimo developed a strong bond with the discipline. Despite family responsibilities--raising four children while his wife taught in Suzhou--he remained deeply committed to his research in the treatment of cervical spondylosis.
Holding an initial TCM degree from Israel, Massimo believed that further study in China was necessary to deepen his practice. His passion to TCM even influenced his children, particularly his youngest son, who receives pediatric massage to ease sports-related fatigue.
When his wife accepted a job in Mauritius, Massimo saw an opportunity to introduce TCM to a region that remains relatively unknown. His clinic has been treating patients with joint and muscle pain, many of whom have found little relief through Western medicine. The positive feedback from patients affirms the value of his work.
Operating the clinic independently, Massimo credits his confidence to Professor Fang, who supported him through years of clinical training and continues to offer remote guidance via WeChat.
Looking ahead, Massimo plans to expand his impact by offering acupuncture courses throughout Africa. As Zhejiang Chinese Medical University celebrates 40 years of international TCM education, Massimo stands as a proud symbol of its global influence.