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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!
Khaleej Times
14-02-2025
- Entertainment
- Khaleej Times
Jebel Hafit Desert Park to host first-ever Winds of Culture concert celebrating Chinese New Year
This February 2025, the breathtaking landscapes of Jebel Hafit Desert Park in Abu Dhabi's Al Ain will provide the setting for an extraordinary cultural experience as Pura Eco Retreats proudly presents the inaugural edition of Winds of Culture concert series spanning the year in cooperation with SAMIT Event Group. Taking place on February 15 and 16, this unique event will celebrate the Chinese New Year through a harmonious fusion of classical music, cultural heritage, and the beauty of nature, bringing audiences an immersive encounter with both Chinese and Emirati traditions. Moreover, reflecting the strong and growing cultural ties between the two nations, Winds of Culture will be held under the patronage of the Embassy of China in the UAE and is also supported by the China Cultural Centre. With Al Ain, dubbed as Abu Dhabi's 'Garden City' for its lush parks, rich culture, and exciting attractions, being named as the Gulf Tourism Capital for 2025, the selection of Jebel Hafit Desert Park — a UNESCO World Heritage site — as a hosting venue is a fitting tribute to both its historical significance and its awe-inspiring natural grandeur. The two-day event will see the park transformed into a cultural hub, with a meticulously curated programme that begins on February 15 with a traditional Chinese tea ceremony, where guests will enjoy the delicate art of tea-making accompanied by the soulful saxophone melodies of Wang Zihao. This will be followed by a piano recital by the renowned Chinese pianist Churen Li, who will present a mesmerising repertoire that blends classical finesse with modern interpretation. The evening will continue with vibrant traditional Chinese performances, celebrating the country's deep cultural roots through music and dance. For those opting for the VIP experience, the night will conclude with an exclusive starlit dinner, offering a traditional Chinese cuisine in a setting rich in heritage and nature. The celebration will extend into February 16, beginning with an authentic Emirati breakfast, where guests can experience the warmth of traditional UAE hospitality, while being treated to a live performance of Chinese flute music by the renowned Yongjie Lu, creating a peaceful and meditative atmosphere further enhanced by traditional Chinese kites soaring gracefully above the desert landscape, symbolising good fortune and prosperity. Pura Eco Retreats, the mind behind this project, is an Emirati-born concept that has taken on the mission of reconnecting people with the untouched wonders of the natural world. Inspired by the UAE's ancestral wisdom and deep-rooted traditions, Pura Eco Retreats creates sanctuaries that offer guests an opportunity to disconnect from the digital world and rediscover the rhythms of the land, sea, and sky, carefully weaving cultural richness and modern comforts to allow guests to experience awe, tranquility, and a profound sense of belonging. The Winds of Culture initiative fits perfectly with this goal, taking classical music and traditional performances beyond conventional venues and into the heart of nature, while bridging the gap between heritage and contemporary artistic expression, and offering audiences a deep cultural and sensory experience in an open-air setting. The event promises to be an unparalleled experience for all, where music lovers, cultural enthusiasts, and adventure seekers alike can gather to witness a rare meeting of traditions, and welcome the Chinese New Year in a setting unlike any other. Moreover, for those wishing to extend their visit, Pura Eco Retreats also offers luxury glamping options, providing further opportunities to experience the tranquil beauty of the desert overnight. Additionally, special hotel rates in Al Ain have been arranged for attendees looking to make the most of this unique cultural celebration.
Gulf Today
12-02-2025
- Entertainment
- Gulf Today
Winds of Culture: A spectacular celebration of Chinese New Year in Al Ain's landscape
This February 2025, the breathtaking landscapes of Jebel Hafit Desert Park in Abu Dhabi's Al Ain will provide the setting for an extraordinary cultural experience as Pura Eco Retreats proudly presents the inaugural edition of Winds of Culture concert series spanning the year in cooperation with SAMIT Event Group. Taking place on the 15th and 16th of February, this unique event will celebrate the Chinese New Year through a harmonious fusion of classical music, cultural heritage, and the beauty of nature, bringing audiences an immersive encounter with both Chinese and Emirati traditions. Moreover, reflecting the strong and growing cultural ties between the two nations, Winds of Culture will be held under the patronage of the Embassy of China in the UAE and is also supported by the China Cultural Centre. With Al Ain, dubbed as Abu Dhabi's 'Garden City' for its lush parks, rich culture, and exciting attractions, being named as the Gulf Tourism Capital for 2025, the selection of Jebel Hafit Desert Park — a UNESCO World Heritage site — as a hosting venue is a fitting tribute to both its historical significance and its awe-inspiring natural grandeur. The two-day event will see the park transformed into a cultural hub, with a meticulously curated programme that begins on February 15th with a traditional Chinese tea ceremony, where guests will enjoy the delicate art of tea-making accompanied by the soulful saxophone melodies of Wang Zihao. This will be followed by a piano recital by the renowned Chinese pianist Churen Li, who will present a mesmerising repertoire that blends classical finesse with modern interpretation. The evening will continue with vibrant traditional Chinese performances, celebrating the country's deep cultural roots through music and dance. For those opting for the VIP experience, the night will conclude with an exclusive starlit dinner, offering a traditional Chinese cuisine in a setting rich in heritage and nature. The celebration will extend into February 16th, beginning with an authentic Emirati breakfast, where guests can experience the warmth of traditional UAE hospitality, while being treated to a live performance of Chinese flute music by the renowned Yongjie Lu, creating a peaceful and meditative atmosphere further enhanced by traditional Chinese kites soaring gracefully above the desert landscape, symbolising good fortune and prosperity. Pura Eco Retreats, the mind behind this project, is a proudly Emirati-born concept that has taken on the mission of reconnecting people with the untouched wonders of the natural world. Inspired by the UAE's ancestral wisdom and deep-rooted traditions, Pura Eco Retreats creates sanctuaries that offer guests an opportunity to disconnect from the digital world and rediscover the rhythms of the land, sea, and sky, carefully weaving cultural richness and modern comforts to allow guests to experience awe, tranquility, and a profound sense of belonging. The Winds of Culture initiative fits perfectly with this goal, taking classical music and traditional performances beyond conventional venues and into the heart of nature, while bridging the gap between heritage and contemporary artistic expression, and offering audiences a deep cultural and sensory experience in an open-air setting. The event promises to be an unparalleled experience for all, where music lovers, cultural enthusiasts, and adventure seekers alike can gather to witness a rare meeting of traditions, and welcome the Chinese New Year in a setting unlike any other! Moreover, for those wishing to extend their visit, Pura Eco Retreats also offers luxury glamping options, providing further opportunities to experience the tranquil beauty of the desert overnight. Additionally, special hotel rates in Al Ain have been arranged for attendees looking to make the most of this unique cultural celebration. Tickets for Winds of Culture are available in Gold and VIP categories, and can be purchased through Meanwhile, for more information, reservations, and media inquiries, please contact [email protected] or [email protected], and make sure to stay updated on the latest festival news by following @windsofculture on Instagram.
What's On
10-02-2025
- Entertainment
- What's On
Experience a gorgeous cultural celebration at Al Ain's Winds of Culture festival
Sponsored: A cultural treat awaits… Experience a one-of-a-kind cultural classic at Al Ain's Winds of Culture by Pura festival on Saturday, February 15, where timeless tradition, classical music and unmatched natural beauty shall converge at one of the UAE's most scenic natural wonders, Jebel Hafit Desert Park. Organised in collaboration with SAMIT Event Group, this pioneering edition of the festival promises to introduce you to an event site like never before, with the cultural treat being presented at a UNESCO World Heritage right here in the Garden City. This is your chance to experience thrilling classical music in a non-traditional, natural venue that will blend the traditions of China with the natural beauty of Al Ain and rich Emirati heritage. Held under the patronage of the Embassy of China in the UAE and supported by the China Cultural Centre, Jebel Hafit Desert Park, a renowned favourite among UAE residents and its horde of tourists as one of the nation's leading natural wonders was chosen to host the event with the aim of blending its delightful desert charm and cultural significance, If you're still wondering why you need to visit the first edition of the Winds of Culture by Pura festival, it's because you're about to be taken on an unforgettable ride that will introduce and expose you to nature, culture, and adventure, all right here in the UAE capital. You can look forward to entertainment and attractions such as the melodies of a skilled Chinese saxophonist and pianist, traditional tea ceremonies, and lively cultural displays, and for those that are heading out to one of the UAE's premier adventure destinations for a healthy dose of thrills, you won't be disappointed. Explore, relax and spend the night before you enjoy a traditional Emirati breakfast and watch colourful kites adorn the Al Ain sky. Head to Winds of Culture by Pura in Al Ain this weekend, where the ultimate cultural celebration awaits. Winds of Culture by Pura, Jebel Hafit Desert Park, Al Ain, Saturday February 15, Dhs399 (gold), Dhs499 (VIP). Tel: (0)50 774 1639. @windsofculture. Media: supplied, Instagram > Sign up for FREE to get exclusive updates that you are interested in
