Amalia Garcia Lopez and Carlos Lafuente Picazo, two university students from Spain, recently ended a memorable nine-day stay in Shanghai. They joined the Young Explorer Program, which aims to connect international youth with Chinese culture.
Organizers from the School of Journalism and Communication at Shanghai International Studies University and Nouvelles d’Europe (UK) launched this initiative. The Young Explorer Program invites Gen Z participants from around the world to explore Shanghai firsthand.
From April 11 to 19, 22 students from the UK, France, Germany, Canada, and the US joined the journey. Organizers planned a rich itinerary that included historical sites, cultural landmarks, and modern business hubs.
Participants explored various neighborhoods on guided city walks. They visited heritage sites and museums to learn about Shanghai’s deep history. Furthermore, they spent time in ancient water towns and lively city districts.
Each day offered a blend of tradition and modernity. Students experienced vibrant street life, interacted with locals, and engaged in cultural exchanges. The program gave them insights into how Shanghai mixes the old with the new.
Carlos Picazo, 23, studies law and international relations. He described Shanghai as a “city of the future” filled with global diversity. He noted that the city felt welcoming and full of opportunities.
Amalia Lopez, 27, majors in political science. She praised Shanghai’s balance between nature and city life. She said the city’s greenery exceeded her expectations.
Both students had a growing interest in China before the trip. Now, after the Young Explorer Program, they see Shanghai as a potential future home.
The Young Explorer Program continues to foster global friendships and build mutual understanding. By connecting young minds with new cultures, it strengthens international dialogue through shared experiences.
