Building Bridges Through Stories: The 'Me and China' Writing Campaign Unites Cultures

In a recent gathering that took place in Lanzhou, Gansu Province on July 30, 2025, the 'Me and China' Writing Campaign culminated in an inspiring award ceremony. This event, co-hosted by the People's Daily and the Chinese People's Association for Friendship with Foreign Countries (CPAFFC), gathered participants from eleven countries, creating a tapestry of shared experiences and aspirations for friendship among nations.

This initiative, which launched in February 2024, aimed to foster bonds through personal narratives, and its response has been overwhelmingly positive with over 1,300 contributions from more than 80 countries by the end of 2024. Such engagement highlights the universal desire for connection and understanding across cultures, particularly during a time when global relations are complex.

Among the award recipients was Ma Kuanchi, vice president of the American Flying Tiger Historical Organization, who has dedicated years to preserving the legacy of the Flying Tigers. He shared his commitment to ensuring that the historical ties between China and America remain alive, especially this year, marking the 80th anniversary of significant WWII events. Ma’s stories underscored the importance of historical memory and its role in nurturing future friendships.

Another remarkable participant was Vienna Cammarota, an Italian retired tour guide who walked the ancient Silk Road to celebrate the historical connection between Italy and China. Her three-year journey of 22,000 kilometers was not merely a physical trek but also an exploration of cultural origins and connections, reinforcing the idea that despite geographical distances, cultures can resonate harmoniously.

Zaw Win Maung, a student from Myanmar studying Traditional Chinese Medicine, presented a different aspect of cultural exchange. He spoke about how TCM exemplifies a holistic view of life, emphasizing harmony with nature. He mentioned, “Learning TCM is not just about techniques; it’s about understanding a philosophy of existence.” His voice added to the narrative of how educational pursuits contribute to deeper intercultural connections.

Fathiya Mohamed-said, who hails from Tanzania, also shared her experiences with Chinese medical teams that have served her community. She expressed admiration for their professionalism and compassion, citing them as role models in her journey to becoming a doctor. Such stories illustrate how cross-cultural interactions can inspire individuals and bridge gaps between different societies.

Throughout the ceremony, the theme of building bridges resonated deeply. Hanan Othman, the first Egyptian employee at China State Construction Engineering Corporation (CSCEC), reflected on her 37 years of work, nurturing friendships that transcend borders. She represents a living testament to how professional and personal relationships can evolve, fostering a sense of community between cultures.

Adding to this narrative, Fomenko Ekaterina has formed her unique bond with China over nearly two decades of residing and working there. Her story, revealing her commitment to blood donation, symbolizes the interconnectedness of lives that transcend nationalities, pointing out that personal sacrifices can foster deeper international friendships.

In summary, the 'Me and China' Writing Campaign has achieved its goal of encouraging participants to act as bridges among different cultures. Each contribution serves as a reminder of the power of storytelling and human connection in the contemporary world. As these award winners shared their heartfelt experiences, they illuminated the path forward for future cultural exchanges and mutual understanding, reinforcing the importance of people-to-people diplomacy in shaping a more harmonious global society. The vibrant atmosphere of the event showcased how, through the power of words, individuals can connect, inspire, and uplift one another across vast distances and cultural divides.