After graduating in Beijing in 2020 during the tumultuous period of COVID-19, I didn’t think that I would be able to return to China anytime soon. The pandemic had disrupted lives globally, and like many international students, I was not sure if I would be able to ever set foot in China again. Travel restrictions were stringent, and the idea of returning seemed like a distant dream. 

However, life has a way of surprising us. In May this year, I received an unexpected message from the Chinese embassy in my country. They informed me about the China Through My Camera programme, a unique initiative by the China Public Diplomacy Association, and encouraged me to apply, and before I knew it, I was nominated as one of the 25 participants from around the world. This programme promised to offer a fresh perspective on China, and I was eager to be part of it. 

On 1 July, I found myself back in Beijing, standing at the Academic Exchange Center of the Communication University of China. The opening ceremony, graced by distinguished guests like Chen Yuming, vice president of the China Public Diplomacy Association, Yu Lei, director of the China Center for International Press Exchange, and Wang Hui, vice president of the Communication University of China, set an inspiring tone for our journey. The air was filled with anticipation as we embarked on a month-long exploration of China’s cultural and technological advancements. 

During this programme, we traversed Beijing, Shanghai and other cities in four provinces – Sichuan, Henan, Shaanxi and Shandong – capturing the essence of China through our cameras. This shoot was the longest I had ever undertaken, pushing me to elevate my photography and videography skills. Each location – from the majestic Great Wall and the historical grandeur of the Forbidden City to the bustling streets of Shanghai – offered a unique narrative. Witnessing autonomous vehicles navigate complex urban environments seamlessly at the Beijing High-level Autonomous Driving Demonstration Area was a testament to China’s leadership in cutting-edge technology.

A fusion of past and present 

This journey provided me with a multidimensional view of China, blending its rich past with a dynamic present. We explored the media landscape, experienced artificial intelligence advancements, and visited sites that spoke volumes of China’s heritage. One particularly captivating experience was watching the Song Dynasty-Dongjing Dream performance in Henan. This show vividly brought the Song Dynasty’s (1127-1279) history to life with stunning visuals and performances, highlighting China’s ability to preserve and celebrate its past while embracing the future. 

In Shaanxi, we encountered the Terracotta Warriors, a stunning representation of China’s imperial grandeur. The Leshan Giant Buddha, viewed from a boat, offered a serene yet imposing presence, while the Dujiangyan base of the China Conservation and Research Center for the Giant Panda provided an intimate look at China’s beloved pandas, symbols of peace and friendship. 

Our visit to the Longmen Grottoes was a profound experience, showcasing thousands of Buddhist statues carved into cliffs, reflecting China’s artistic and spiritual heritage. In Chengdu, trying out an air taxi at Aerofugia, a pioneering company in the field, was exhilarating. The futuristic technology and the thrill of flying over the city underscored China’s advancements in urban mobility. 

Shanghai’s metro system and the Shanghai Tower were highlights, demonstrating China’s rapid development and technological prowess. The view from the top of the Shanghai Tower, one of the tallest buildings in the world, provided a breathtaking panorama of the city’s skyline. Shanghai exemplifies China’s ability to honour its historical roots while embracing modernity, a blend that is evident throughout the country.

Cultural connection 

The China Through My Camera programme gathered together global Internet celebrities to observe and study China’s development firsthand. This exposure was a vivid demonstration of China’s vibrant culture and its seamless integration of tradition with modern innovation. 

Reflecting on this journey, I am profoundly grateful for the unforgettable experiences and the chance to share China’s rich cultural tapestry with a global audience. The friendships forged and the memories captured will be cherished forever. As a participant, I am dedicated to conveying the beauty and diversity of this magnificent country to the world. The programme has not only refined my professional skills but also deepened my appreciation for China’s history, culture and people. 

This programme has successfully showcased China’s vibrant culture, technological advancements and warm hospitality. It fosters a deeper understanding of this remarkable nation.  

As I continue to share my experiences through engaging content, I hope to inspire others to explore and appreciate China – a country where every corner tells a story, and every encounter fosters a richer connection to the world.  

For countries around the world, China stands as a powerful example of how to balance rapid development with deep cultural preservation. Its blend of tradition and modernity offers valuable lessons in fostering technological progress while cherishing heritage. I encourage everyone to explore China for themselves to understand its extraordinary fusion of the old and the new, and to draw inspiration from its approach to development and cultural continuity.  

The author is Public Relations Officer of Office of the President of Namibia. African Times published this article in partnership with ChinAfrica Magazine