YOUNG LEADER REPRESENTS AT GLOBAL SEMINAR
By Mohamed Khamis Mohamed
My journey to Beijing, China, was a unique experience, not only because it was my first time visiting this vast Asian nation, but also because I had the honor of representing Zanzibar as the sole participant in an important international seminar, as a delegate from the Corporation of Government Newspapers Zanzibar.
As a Young Leader from a Journalist Organization, I was privileged to attend a special training seminar organized by the Academy for International Business Officials (AIBO), an institution affiliated with the Ministry of Commerce (MOFCOM) of the People’s Republic of China.
The seminar, aimed at Young Leaders of Journalist Organizations from Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) Partner Countries, served as an important platform for training, dialogue, and exchange of experiences regarding the future of media and global communication in the modern era of technology.
The Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) is a strategic development plan launched by the Chinese government in 2013 under the leadership of President Xi Jinping, it is main goal is to enhance infrastructure, trade, and economic cooperation between China and various countries, particularly across Asia, Africa, Europe, and even parts of Latin America.
Seminar and Topics Covered
This two-week seminar took place from April 15 to April 29, 2025, in Beijing, it brought together 31 participants from 16 countries, including Panama, Greece, Malaysia, Bahrain, Bahamas, Philippines, Tajikistan, Solomon Islands, Egypt, Ghana, South Sudan, Namibia, Botswana, Eswatini, South Africa, and Zanzibar.
We explored developments in global media and communication through expert lectures, group discussions, and field visits.
Key topics included the history of journalism in China, Chinese leadership philosophies, media laws and ethics, and the use of modern media platforms such as social media and digital tools.
Places We Visited
Our educational visits spanned two major cities, Beijing and Nanchang.
Beijing, the capital of China, is the country’s political and historical center. It reflects a blend of cultural heritage and modern progress.
In Beijing, we visited major media institutions such as Xinhua News Agency, Tongzhou Media, and the All-China Journalists Association offices.
We also explored the Museum of the Communist Party of China and the Great Wall of China, a national symbol and major tourist attraction, representing China’s strength, long history, and cultural richness.
Nanchang is the capital city of Jiangxi Province in Southeastern China, known for its historical heritage and industrial advancement.
In Nanchang, we visited the Jiangxi Daily newspaper offices, the Jiangxi International Communication Center, and the Nanchang Relic Museum of the Haihun Principality from the Han Dynasty.
We also toured the CR Jiangzhong Pharmaceutical Group, a company specializing in traditional Chinese medicine, and visited the modern vehicle manufacturing plant of Jiangling Motors Corporation (JMC).
Highlights That Inspired Me
The Hospitality of the Chinese People
During the two weeks I spent in China, I discovered the warmth and kindness of its people. They were cheerful, welcoming, and always ready to help—even to first-time visitors like myself.
Youth in Public Service
I was amazed to see young people, some as young as 13 to 18 years old, engaging in small businesses, hotel services, and even working in public offices such as immigration. This reflects how China prepares its youth to be responsible from an early age.
Embracing Technology
China is far ahead technologically, from electric vehicles and digital payments, to the use of robots in everyday services, the country truly lives in the future.
Nighttime Scenery
The beauty of China reveals itself even more at night, streets and buildings are lit with colorful lights, giving one the feeling of being in a movie, or even another planet.
Conclusion
After the seminar, we concluded with a closing ceremony where we were awarded certificates of participation and shared a farewell luncheon.
My journey to China left a lasting mark on my personal and professional life. Through this seminar, I gained new knowledge, new friendships, and a fresh perspective on the role of media in national development.
China is a country of deep history, discipline, and exceptional hospitality, without a doubt, I am grateful and eager to return someday to learn more and strengthen international cooperation.
It is my hope that opportunities like this will continue to be made available to the youth of Zanzibar and Tanzania at large, in order to deepen international collaboration through education, knowledge, and communication.
