Farewell, Not a Departure
The Belt and Road Countries Journalist Leaders and Gen Z Young Leaders Seminar concluded on July 21, 2025, in Beijing, marking a significant event in fostering cross-cultural communication, media innovation, and global partnerships among Belt and Road participating countries.
Over the course of two weeks, at least 27 delegates from 10 different nations attended the seminar, which was sponsored by the Ministry of Commerce of the People's Republic of China. The event was held at the Research and Training Institute (RTI) of China's National Radio and Television Administration (NRTA).
The seminar served as a platform for meaningful engagement with China's media landscape, known for its inclusiveness, integration, and multilateral approach. Officials such as Ms. Zhou Jihong, director general of the International Cooperation Department of NRTA, led discussions on China's expanding media industry and its growing global partnerships.
Delegates had the opportunity to attend the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) TV Festival, immersing themselves in global broadcasting trends. The seminar also included professional media and communication courses, cultural immersion activities, and tours to iconic sites such as the Great Wall, Central TV Tower, Bird's Nest, Terracotta Warriors, Fu Tea Town, and multiple museums.
BJ Obispo, public relations commissioner of Pohnpei Utilities Corporation in Micronesia, emphasized that the seminar was about more than just experiences, but about living the Chinese way of life. Vanessa Dagonyaro from Nigeria's Centre for Management Development said that the trip taught them about love, while Saeed Sarwat Mahmood, news editor of Kurdsat Broadcasting Corporation in Iraq, expressed gratitude for the opportunity to attend.
Jose Miguel Marichal Sandoval, a TV anchor, model, and content creator from Honduras, delivered a well-produced video reflection of his experience at the seminar. Saeed Sarwat Mahmood also expressed hope for a return visit to China in two years. Ester Nekesa Mabonga, senior communication officer of the University of Nairobi, shared that the experience challenged them to grow and reflect deeply.
Team Iraq presented a video on China's bike-sharing program, suggesting its potential replication, while BJ Obispo highlighted the impact of laughter, friendships, and conversations over meals and travels. The closing program saw NRTA deputy vice president Liu Linhai award certificates to delegates from the Philippines, Bulgaria, Cyprus, Honduras, Iraq, Kenya, Micronesia, Nigeria, Romania, and South Sudan.
The seminar concluded with delegates expressing gratitude for the opportunity to learn from each other and from the Chinese people, drawing inspiration for their own progress. The event underscored China's intent to play a leading role in global media cooperation and narrative-building within the Belt and Road framework.
[1] China Daily
[2] Global Times
[3] People's Daily
[4] Xinhua
[5] CGTN
- The Philippines delegates appreciated the immersion in the culture of China, particularly the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) TV Festival, which showcased global broadcasting trends.
- Delegates from the University of Nairobi (Kenya) found the seminar to be a challenging yet rewarding experience for their education and self-development, pushing them to reflect deeply.
- In a reflection video, Jose Miguel Marichal Sandoval (Honduras) expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to engage with China's media landscape, embracing the China lifestyle, and learning from his fellow Gen Z leaders.
- As the seminar concluded, discussions about partnerships and global collaborations were not limited to the realm of finance and technology. Instead, delegates found common ground in sharing their experiences and fostering a deeper understanding of each other's cultures.
