Global experts share stories with Shenzhen

International experts share their insights and personal experiences at a Spring Festival panel 

at Shenzhen University on Friday. Photos by Lin Songtao

With Chinese New Year just around the corner, the Shenzhen Municipal Science, Technology, and Innovation Bureau, along with the Shenzhen Municipal Foreign Experts Affairs Bureau, hosted a Spring Festival panel at Shenzhen University that included 13 international experts living in Shenzhen on Friday.
These experts shared their experiences in both work and life in Shenzhen, while also participated in traditional Lunar New Year activities, which deepened their sense of belonging and connection to the city.
The event was co-organized by the Shenzhen University Center for Innovative Communication of Urban Culture and EyeShenzhen, Shenzhen News Group's Global Communication Center.

Jeroen van de Weijer from the Netherlands (L) listens attentively as Maksim Silenko from Russia offers his perspective. 

During the panel, the experts offered valuable insights and suggestions for the city’s development, drawing on their diverse perspectives and experiences in Shenzhen.
Andrew Flanner, an American who teaches humanities and social sciences at Huitong School, emphasized the panel's importance. "I think that panels like today’s are extremely important to people like me for a few reasons. One is being able to learn about the experiences of people who have been here longer. It helps me gain a better understanding of the city’s direction and the ongoing challenges it faces."
He also stated, "At the same time, participating in these panels allows newcomers like me to share our unique perspectives with the city and its decision-makers, offering insights that differ from those of long-term residents."
Speaking about the networking aspect of the event, Flanner noted, "These panels are an excellent opportunity to meet experts from diverse industries and fields. They foster both professional connections and personal friendships, providing a clearer picture of what’s happening in this city."

Jose Antonio Vigara Alvarez de Perea from Spain (L) engages in a discussion with a participant during the event. 

Shunichi Takeda, a Japanese professor at Shenzhen University’s Medical School, found the discussion highly valuable. "I sat next to another professor who runs a company — exactly the kind of collaboration I hope to explore in the future," Takeda shared.
Building on Flanner's comments about networking, Takeda added, "This panel is a fantastic opportunity to build relationships and connect with other experts and professors. From the discussion, I learned that many share the view that Shenzhen is a city brimming with opportunities."

Olatunji Mumini Omisore from Nigeria (R) tries his hand at writing "fu" with guidance from a calligraphy instructor.

After the panel, the experts took part in traditional Chinese Spring Festival customs, such as writing the Chinese character “fu” (福) and couplets.
Olatunji Mumini Omisore, an associate researcher at the Shenzhen Institutes of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, tried his hand at writing “fu” with the guidance of a calligraphy teacher.
"One of the things I find inspiring about Chinese culture is how it incorporates symbols and traditions into daily life. For instance, ‘Fu’ represents good fortune, luck, and positivity for the coming year. I sincerely hope that this year brings many opportunities, personal growth, and ways to contribute to society," Omisore told Shenzhen Daily.

WeChat Editors/Cynthia, Yunfei
Source：ShenzhenDaily