On July 12, 2023, the 2023 “Voyage to Discover Chinese Roots” Summer Camp – Zigong Camp officially commenced in Zigong City. 35 young overseas Chinese descendants and accompanying leaders from countries including the United States, the United Kingdom, and Switzerland gathered in this historical and cultural city to embark on a meaningful and joyful “journey to discover their roots.”
Teacher Yang Zhihua from the Chinese Institute Geneva Foundation will lead the camp participants to experience the unique cultural atmosphere of Zigong and appreciate the city’s charm as the “Millennial Salt Capital,” “City of Lanterns,” and “Land of Dinosaurs.”
This summer camp is organized by the China Overseas Exchange Association and hosted by the Sichuan Province Overseas Chinese Federation, with strong support and collaboration from the Zigong City Overseas Chinese Federation and the Xingzhong Administrative School. The event aims to help young overseas Chinese descendants learn Chinese, understand the situation in China, and promote exchanges among Chinese youth both at home and abroad.
During the opening ceremony, our camp participant, student Yang Ruixuan, expressed his long-awaited anticipation for this summer camp activity. He hoped to explore the land of dinosaurs, experience Chinese folk culture and traditional craftsmanship, appreciate the beauty of the Chinese language, and gain a deeper understanding of the profoundness of Chinese culture.
Teacher Yang Zhihua shared the exciting schedule for the participants in Zigong on the 12th. In the morning, everyone engaged in team-building exercises at the sports hall of the Zigong Administrative School, located next to the Jianguo Hotel in Zigong. During this activity, barriers of nationality, school, gender, and language were broken, and more friendly connections were established.
At noon, the participants returned to the hotel for lunch and took a short rest. At 3 pm, everyone went to the Sichuan Opera Troupe in Zigong to watch a rich and colorful Sichuan Opera performance with distinctive local characteristics. The program incorporated elements of Sichuan Opera, dance, acrobatics, and face-changing, providing the audience with an exceptional and thrilling show. Our students also participated in interactive sessions.
After dinner, a “Personal Talent Showcase” event took place in a small meeting room at the Municipal Archives Bureau. Our student Yang Ruixuan acted as the host, and together with his fellow students Wu Ziau, Wang Darui, Li Xiaosen, and Zeng Chengzu, they presented an opening rap performance. Wu Ziau showcased his “Qimei Gun” stick technique from martial arts, and his brilliant performance earned applause from the audience.
The day’s activities were diverse and enriching, allowing the camp participants to have a fulfilling and enjoyable experience in Zigong. They actively participated in various activities, showcasing their talents and engaging in exchanges with local teachers and students. These precious experiences will become cherished memories and deepen their understanding and appreciation of Chinese culture during their “journey to discover their roots.”