On September 24, 2024, the China-Latin America Youth Thinkers Roundtable took place at Tsinghua University, uniting aspiring youth leaders from both regions to foster dialogue and cultural understanding. This vibrant event showcased the unique perspectives of Tsinghua students alongside their Latin American counterparts.
The roundtable aimed to create a platform for young thinkers to explore shared challenges and opportunities. Student representative Larissa Lima highlighted the significance of cultural exchange, noting that in recent years, more Chinese youth have traveled abroad with an open mindset to explore Latin America and beyond. "It is precisely because of China's cultural inclusivity that the friendship between China and Latin America has begun and continues to thrive," she said.
Cultural heritage was a focal point of the event, with representatives sharing insights into traditional Chinese arts. Yang Yue, a paper-cutting inheritor, highlighted the importance of preserving cultural legacies, saying, "The art of paper-cutting is a bridge between generations, connecting our past with the present." Lan Suihong, a PhD student, introduced “Zhuang Gao Ren,” a unique dough figurine art from Quanzhou, showcasing its rich history and contemporary relevance.
Personal stories added depth to the discussions. Pablo Manuel Velazquez Perez, a Cuban student, reflected on his transformative journey in China since 2019. He faced initial struggles but embraced the challenges. He said, "I am deeply grateful to China for opening doors that have changed my life." Similarly, Gustavo Pedro Cadiz Quispe from Bolivia shared his six-year journey, emphasizing the power of collaboration across cultures. "Our diverse backgrounds can lead to innovative solutions," he noted.
The roundtable's theme, "Cultural IP from the Perspective of International Communication," resonated throughout the discussions. Professor Zhao Yuezhi, Humanities Chair Professor at Tsinghua University, illuminated the potential of youth in shaping the future. "We live in an era filled with both crisis and hope,” she said. “Young people today possess greater knowledge, creativity, and action than our generation. If global youth, especially from the Global South, unite, we can create a brighter future."
Latin American youth representatives brought their enthusiasm to the conversation. Leydi Amaya Varela from Colombia addressed the cultural differences between the regions, emphasizing the need for mutual understanding. She stated, "Our most influential cultural product is magical realism, enriched by literary giants like García Márquez. We must ensure that our creative expressions are protected and celebrated."
Alfer Unamo, a Venezuelan journalist, expressed hopes for deeper cultural cooperation. "As countries that have shared a strong friendship for 50 years, we look forward to more cross-cultural interactions with Chinese youth," he said.
As the roundtable concluded, participants left with a renewed commitment to collaboration, setting the stage for future exchanges between China and Latin America. This event celebrated the transformative power of youth in building a more interconnected world.
Writer: Gillian
Editor: Li Han
