U.S. Youth Ambassadors Foster Friendship and Exchange in Xiamen, China

From July 17 to 22, an extraordinary event took place in Xiamen, China, where the U.S. Youth Ambassadors program invited 27 students and teachers from Baltimore, Maryland, and Orange County, California. This initiative was designed not only as a cultural exchange but also as a means to develop long-lasting friendships across borders. Xiamen, known for its rich history as one of China's first special economic zones, provided the perfect backdrop for such an enriching experience.

During this period, the youth were immersed in the vibrant culture of Xiamen, a region renowned for its economic advancements since the early 1980s. The program offered them the opportunity to engage with local traditions, explore the city’s stunning landscapes, and participate in various interactive activities aimed at fostering mutual understanding.

A pivotal moment of their journey occurred on the morning of July 19, when the group visited the Wuyuanwan Wetland Park, affectionately dubbed the "green lung" of Xiamen. The students engaged in a "nature classroom," emphasizing the city’s commitment to ecological preservation, specifically highlighting its initiative to conserve wetland bird populations. This hands-on experience provided insight into the significance of harmonizing human interactions with nature—a theme that resonated deeply with all participants.

Wuyuan Bay and Yundang Lake stood as remarkable examples of ecological restoration, showcasing Xiamen's transformation over the decades. Once neglected and polluted, Wuyuan Bay has been revitalized into a picturesque public space, while Yundang Lake has become a sanctuary for wildlife with its crystal-clear waters. Since 2002, the city has committed itself to comprehensive renovation projects across five key bay areas, focusing on restoring natural habitats and providing lush landscapes. As a result, students marveled at the natural biodiversity, discovering that over 500 species of birds call this wetland home. Janelli Moriah Gonzalez, a student from Bard High School Early College, expressed her awe, stating, "The wildlife here is truly impressive. Learning that over 500 different birds thrive in this area was a revelation!"

Aaron Israel Nava from Orange County Music and Dance echoed these sentiments, noting the unique contrast in greenery between California and Xiamen. He commented, "There’s so much more greenery here, and the environment feels more integrated with nature compared to what I see at home. It feels like China genuinely embraces nature more than the U.S., where urban areas often lack this abundant greenery."

In a symbolic gesture of unity, the students participated in planting “friendship trees” to commemorate their newly formed connections. Chelsea Nakabayashi, a faculty member from Bard High School, expressed pride in her students’ willingness to embrace the activity despite the sweltering heat that day. "The way they just jumped into working, without reservation, showed their appreciation for the engagement. It’s heartening to witness such commitment to growing something meaningful together," she reflected.

Nakabayashi elaborated on the idea behind the tree planting, relating it to the expression of growth, continuity, and hope, especially in challenging times. Having begun her journey with a passion for learning Chinese in high school, she has since nurtured her dedication to education by obtaining a Ph.D. in China. She emphasized the significance of creating connections early on, stating, "Something we’ve planted here will continue to grow, much like our friendships with our Chinese counterparts. This is just the beginning of something beautiful. As the trees flourish, so will our bonds."

As the U.S. Youth Ambassadors departed Xiamen, their hearts were undoubtedly full, carrying memories that would withstand the test of time. The program not only facilitated cultural understanding and environmental consciousness but also planted seeds—quite literally—of friendship that promise to thrive long after their return to the United States.

Through experiences like these, youth from across the globe can come together, learn from each other, and build a collective future filled with compassion and cooperation. Together, they rewrote the narrative around international relations, one friendship tree at a time.