Latest news with #China-SouthAfricaYouthExchangeNight
The Citizen
27-06-2025
- Business
- The Citizen
Chinese ambassador urges SA youth to seize tariff-free trade opportunities
Wu Peng encouraged young South Africans to engage in trade, study and skills development under China's new initiatives. Chinese ambassador to South Africa Wu Peng has challenged the country's youth to use the opportunities arising from China's tariff-free trade initiative offered to all African countries. Speaking during the 'China-South Africa Youth Exchange Night', Wu said China and SA have now established a comprehensive strategic partnership for a new era. Youth exchanges Over 200 Chinese companies were 'active, investing, hiring and building in the country', he said. Wu also raised the significance of youth exchange between South Africa and China, including studying, training and exploring business opportunities. 'Young people are the future and hope of a nation. China has always believed in the power of youth and we support exchange and learning between young people from China and the Global South,' Wu said. ALSO READ: China's clever trade deal with Africa – removal of tariffs on most goods Shared 'values' While South Africa's philosophy of Ubuntu emphasised compassion and shared humanity, China believed in harmony, community, and helping one another. 'These values bring our two countries close,' he said. Other speakers included Deputy Minister in the Presidency for Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities Mmapaseka Letsike and special economic advisor to Deputy President Paul Mashatile, Gadija Brown. The audience also watched a Chinese film, Ordinary Hero, based on a true story, about a group of young people coming together to save a child's life, emphasising the significance of Chinese teamwork, care and kindness. NOW READ: Western media bias: how imperial narratives shape global perceptions
The Citizen
25-06-2025
- Entertainment
- The Citizen
Exchange night a call to action for youth to step forward
On the evening of June 23, the Fairtree Atterbury Theatre in Pretoria east was transformed into a vibrant hub of cultural celebration, dialogue, and inspiration as it hosted the China-South Africa Youth Exchange Night. Organised by the Embassy of China in South Africa and the National Press Club, the event served as a powerful reminder of the importance of youth empowerment, cultural understanding, and global partnership, values that resonate deeply during South Africa's Youth Month. At the heart of the evening was the shared commitment to fostering mutual understanding and long-term collaboration between China and South Africa. Guests were treated to a rich programme that included the launch of the book China Through My Eyes: A Journey of a Young South African to China by Michael Mayalo, and a screening of the emotionally moving film Ordinary Hero. Dignitaries and thought leaders also made thoughtful speeches. The evening kicked off with a finger buffet of traditional Chinese dishes, where guests mingled and networked, setting the tone for an evening of reflection and shared experience. As the formal programme commenced, Ambassador Wu Peng took to the stage, his words striking a chord with many in the audience. The evening was attended by more than 200 young adults from both China and South Africa. 'China is South Africa's largest trade partner since 2009,' he remarked, highlighting the depth of economic ties. 'There are over 200 Chinese companies doing business in South Africa. One of our strongest trade links remains agriculture, but we want to expand our partnership to also include more manufactured products from South Africa.' Peng's focus was not merely economic. He emphasised the importance of people-to-people diplomacy, adding, 'You can always have a meaningful conversation with South Africans when you want to build bridges of friendship. The exchange programme is the outflow of that'. Peng stressed the role of education in shaping tomorrow's leaders. 'Education is a top priority in China, and we want to carry this value into our exchange programme with South Africa. Over the next three years, we aim to offer more training and learning opportunities to the South African youth.' One of the evening's most anticipated moments was the appearance of the young South African author Mayalo, whose newly launched book explores his journey in China. His speech was deeply moving, grounded in lived experience and honest reflection. 'Living and studying in China changed me,' he said. 'One of the things I've learned in China again is that you can go far in life if you are humble. Traditions, like I have discovered in China, are also always a journey of discovery and not merely historical cultural detail.' Mayalo's message to his peers was urgent: 'The youth are not the future. They are the present. We are shaping our societies today. And every opportunity to learn from others, especially across cultures, is an opportunity for growth.' His book serves as testament to this mindset, drawing readers into his journey of transformation, identity, and discovery in a foreign land. The screening of Ordinary Hero added an emotional and inspirational layer to the evening. The film tells the story of everyday individuals who rise above challenges to create meaningful change in their communities. It served as a powerful metaphor for the role young people can and should play in society: champions of kindness, determination, and service. The audience was visibly moved by the film's core message: that heroism is not limited to grand gestures. It is often found in the quiet resolve of people who simply care. Albi Modise, executive member of the National Press Club, praised the event's significance. 'It is good to attend a function that celebrates young people during Youth Month,' he said. 'We appreciate the hand of friendship extended to South Africa. In an era where artificial intelligence, climate change, and global shifts are affecting the youth's lives and career paths, international support and cultural exchange have never been more vital.' ALSO READ: Homeless get more than warmth at shelter Do you have more information about the story? Please send us an email to bennittb@ or phone us on 083 625 4114. For free breaking and community news, visit Rekord's websites: Rekord East For more news and interesting articles, like Rekord on Facebook, follow us on Twitter or Instagram or TikTok. At Caxton, we employ humans to generate daily fresh news, not AI intervention. Happy reading!
