The award ceremony of the “My Chinese Story” China-Africa Photo and Video Competition took place in Beijing on November 1. This prestigious event was sponsored by the Secretariat of the Chinese Follow-up Committee of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) and the China Public Diplomacy Association, with Global Times Online (huanqiu.com) serving as the organizer. The competition aimed to foster cultural exchanges and showcase the depth of the China-Africa relationship through photography and video storytelling.
Attending the ceremony were diplomatic envoys from nearly 30 African countries, including Egypt, the Republic of the Congo, and the Central African Republic. These representatives praised the competition for promoting mutual understanding and strengthening the ties between China and Africa. Kenneth S. Rabale, the Ambassador of the Kingdom of Lesotho to China, expressed the significance of the growing bond between the two regions, stating, “The friendship between China and Africa needs no elaborate words; our bond is growing deeper and stronger.”
The event honored 20 winners from various African nations, such as South Africa, Egypt, and Madagascar. These winners were invited to take part in a five-day visit to Beijing, spanning from October 30 to November 3. The visit was packed with activities designed to deepen their appreciation of Chinese culture, history, and technological advancements.
One of the highlights of the visit was a tour of the Palace Museum, commonly known as the Forbidden City, which stands as a historical symbol on the central axis of Beijing. The winners marveled at its rich history and intricate architecture. Another significant stop was the Badaling Great Wall, an iconic section of the Great Wall of China. Here, they not only experienced breathtaking views but also absorbed the sense of history and the impressive feats of ancient Chinese engineering.
Their exploration of Beijing’s cultural essence continued with visits to Qianmen Gate, a landmark steeped in local history, and the renowned Laoshe Teahouse. At the teahouse, the visitors had the opportunity to enjoy traditional Chinese performances, savor local tea, and immerse themselves in the heritage of Chinese storytelling and art.
Beyond historical and cultural sites, the winners also visited a new energy vehicle development center. This visit offered a firsthand look at the advancements in Chinese technology, particularly in the field of sustainable energy. They witnessed the innovations that have propelled China into a leading position in new energy vehicle production, showcasing the nation’s commitment to technological progress and environmental sustainability.
An integral part of their itinerary included engaging with students from Tsinghua University and participating in seminars with local journalists. These interactions provided an open platform for dialogue, where discussions focused on the future of China-Africa cooperation and the shared vision for development and prosperity. The exchange of ideas underscored the importance of youth involvement in shaping the future and fostering deeper connections between the two regions.
During the visit, one notable moment gained particular attention online. A video featuring Ruchinga Cherubala Hugues, a young participant from the Democratic Republic of the Congo, performing Kung Fu and playing the cucurbit flute, known as the hulusi, on the Great Wall went viral across short video platforms. His performance captured the spirit of cultural exchange and the blend of African and Chinese traditions, resonating with audiences far and wide.
The participants expressed their enthusiasm for the experiences they shared in Beijing. Many of them emphasized their commitment to acting as ambassadors of China-Africa cultural exchange. They vowed to share their experiences and the stories they encountered in China with their communities back home and beyond. These sentiments highlighted the competition’s broader objective—to build bridges of understanding and foster a narrative of collaboration and friendship.
The “My Chinese Story” China-Africa Photo and Video Competition, co-hosted by the Secretariat of the Chinese Follow-up Committee of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation and the China Public Diplomacy Association, represents a significant step toward strengthening people-to-people ties. Organized by Global Times Online, the competition provided a platform for participants to share authentic stories that reflect the multifaceted relationship between China and African nations.
As the award ceremony concluded, the participants, organizers, and attending dignitaries reaffirmed the importance of continued efforts to enhance cultural exchanges. The initiative not only showcased the talents and creativity of the participants but also highlighted the shared values and aspirations that bind China and Africa. The event stood as a testament to the enduring partnership that goes beyond diplomatic agreements, rooted in mutual respect, shared experiences, and a commitment to future collaboration.
