French WorldSkills Competitors Embrace Traditional Chinese Culture in Shanghai
In an enriching cultural exchange event, French competitors from WorldSkills 2026 recently had the opportunity to immerse themselves in traditional Chinese culture at the Shanghai Caoyang Vocational School. Held on September 22, 2026, the event highlighted the importance of global collaboration and the sharing of skills, reflecting long-standing cultural ties between France and China.
The event is part of the 'One School One Member' initiative designed to connect local schools with members of WorldSkills through hands-on activities. Among the French delegates was Alexis Aubert, who specializes in Additive Manufacturing. It was his first visit to Shanghai, and he was warmly welcomed by local students who greeted him in multiple languages, including Mandarin, English, French, and the local Shanghai dialect.
Aubert engaged in creating a decorative artwork using Song brocade, a traditional fabric, adorning it with pearls. As he worked meticulously, he expressed the delicate nature of the task and the cultural significance of the artwork he would take back home with him.
Other competitors opted for culinary experiences, diving into the art of Chinese cuisine. Arthur Baudry, a Heavy Vehicle Technology competitor, dedicated nearly half an hour to crafting three goldfish-shaped dumplings, a dim sum favorite symbolizing prosperity. This hands-on experience not only enhanced his culinary skills but also deepened his appreciation for Chinese traditions surrounding food.
Similarly, Fashion Technology competitor Manon Pouivet participated in a tea-whisking workshop, practicing an age-old technique from the Song Dynasty. Under the guidance of a tea arts specialist, she learned how to roast and grind tea leaves, sift the tea powder, and prepare cups before whisking the tea into a frothy consistency using bamboo whisks. Reflecting on her experience, Pouivet described the tea session as amazing, noting the stark contrast between the modern cityscape of Shanghai and the centuries-old traditions she was exploring. She expressed her amazement at the city's scale and its dazzling night lights, further enhancing her cultural journey.
The spirit of the exchange was further enriched by the presence of Rachel Crawford, a former WorldSkills competitor from Australia, who encouraged young students to delve into their passions and engage in skills training. The event not only showcased individual skills but also underscored the value of collaboration and learning across cultures.
The connection between Shanghai and Marseille, France, was palpable during this event. Since establishing their friendship in 1987, the two cities have maintained strong ties through various cultural exchanges. The collaborative relationship between Shanghai Caoyang Vocational School and its Marseille counterpart dates back to 1990, with signing of a friendship agreement and subsequently a cooperation pact to facilitate student internships.
In 2019, an overseas teaching site showcasing Chinese cuisine was established in Marseille, further solidifying this educational partnership. Over the two decades, numerous exchanges have occurred, with more than 40 teachers and students from both institutions visiting each other.
Sabrina Roubache, the minister delegate for vocational education in France, shared her personal connection, having been raised in Marseille. She expressed that over 30 years of cultural exchanges have fostered mutual understanding between the two schools. Roubache emphasized the importance of sharing skills as a means to deepen ties and transform exchanges into memorable experiences.
This initiative at WorldSkills is just one of many that highlight the importance of cultural exchange in promoting understanding and cooperation between countries. As competitors from across the globe find common ground through skills, the experiences gained will resonate beyond the competition, enriching their personal and professional lives.
The event is part of the 'One School One Member' initiative designed to connect local schools with members of WorldSkills through hands-on activities. Among the French delegates was Alexis Aubert, who specializes in Additive Manufacturing. It was his first visit to Shanghai, and he was warmly welcomed by local students who greeted him in multiple languages, including Mandarin, English, French, and the local Shanghai dialect.
Aubert engaged in creating a decorative artwork using Song brocade, a traditional fabric, adorning it with pearls. As he worked meticulously, he expressed the delicate nature of the task and the cultural significance of the artwork he would take back home with him.
Other competitors opted for culinary experiences, diving into the art of Chinese cuisine. Arthur Baudry, a Heavy Vehicle Technology competitor, dedicated nearly half an hour to crafting three goldfish-shaped dumplings, a dim sum favorite symbolizing prosperity. This hands-on experience not only enhanced his culinary skills but also deepened his appreciation for Chinese traditions surrounding food.
Similarly, Fashion Technology competitor Manon Pouivet participated in a tea-whisking workshop, practicing an age-old technique from the Song Dynasty. Under the guidance of a tea arts specialist, she learned how to roast and grind tea leaves, sift the tea powder, and prepare cups before whisking the tea into a frothy consistency using bamboo whisks. Reflecting on her experience, Pouivet described the tea session as amazing, noting the stark contrast between the modern cityscape of Shanghai and the centuries-old traditions she was exploring. She expressed her amazement at the city's scale and its dazzling night lights, further enhancing her cultural journey.
The spirit of the exchange was further enriched by the presence of Rachel Crawford, a former WorldSkills competitor from Australia, who encouraged young students to delve into their passions and engage in skills training. The event not only showcased individual skills but also underscored the value of collaboration and learning across cultures.
The connection between Shanghai and Marseille, France, was palpable during this event. Since establishing their friendship in 1987, the two cities have maintained strong ties through various cultural exchanges. The collaborative relationship between Shanghai Caoyang Vocational School and its Marseille counterpart dates back to 1990, with signing of a friendship agreement and subsequently a cooperation pact to facilitate student internships.
In 2019, an overseas teaching site showcasing Chinese cuisine was established in Marseille, further solidifying this educational partnership. Over the two decades, numerous exchanges have occurred, with more than 40 teachers and students from both institutions visiting each other.
Sabrina Roubache, the minister delegate for vocational education in France, shared her personal connection, having been raised in Marseille. She expressed that over 30 years of cultural exchanges have fostered mutual understanding between the two schools. Roubache emphasized the importance of sharing skills as a means to deepen ties and transform exchanges into memorable experiences.
This initiative at WorldSkills is just one of many that highlight the importance of cultural exchange in promoting understanding and cooperation between countries. As competitors from across the globe find common ground through skills, the experiences gained will resonate beyond the competition, enriching their personal and professional lives.
Topics People & Culture）
【About Using Articles】
You can freely use the title and article content by linking to the page where the article is posted.
※ Images cannot be used.
【About Links】
Links are free to use.