Showcasing the deepening ties between China and Africa, PhD candidate Noah Namwamba from Shanghai Jiao Tong University has won third place in the "My Chinese Story China-Africa Video Competition." The award ceremony was recently held in Beijing and organized by Global Times Online.

During the five-day event, awardees were privileged to visit places of significant importance to China's history and culture, including the Badaling Great Wall. Namwamba also participated in a symposium hosted by Prof. Tang Xiaoyang, Chair of the Department of International Relations at Tsinghua University.

At the symposium, Namwamba discussed the current state of China-Africa relations, highlighting the critical future of this relationship as Africa approaches a demographic dividend by 2045. He emphasized that with Africa being the continent with the youngest population in the world, it is essential to foster more cross-cultural efforts. "Increasing collaborations will not only elevate our relationship but also ensure mutual benefits for both continents," Namwamba stated.

The competition aimed to strengthen cultural exchanges by inviting participants to share personal stories that highlight their experiences in China. Namwamba's video stood out for its heartfelt narrative and insightful portrayal of his journey as an African student embracing Chinese culture.

"Engaging in these cultural exchanges is vital for both continents," he added. "As Africa's young population grows, fostering stronger ties with China will open up opportunities for collaboration and shared prosperity."

Representatives from Global Times Online praised the high quality of the submissions, noting that the stories have significantly contributed to enhancing cross-cultural understanding. The event attracted numerous entries from across the African continent, all showcasing the unique and diverse relationships individuals have formed with China.

Namwamba's achievement not only highlights his personal talents but also reflects the growing trend of educational and cultural exchanges between China and African nations. His success serves as an inspiration to other international students and underscores the power of storytelling in bridging cultural divides.

The "My Chinese Story China-Africa Video Competition" is part of ongoing efforts to promote mutual understanding and friendship between the peoples of China and Africa. By sharing personal experiences, participants help to foster a more connected and empathetic global community.