International students and attendees pose for a group photo at the launch of the 8th Shanghai Get-together Writing Contest and a Spring Festival celebration in Shanghai on Jan 29, 2026. [Photo by Luo Bin/chinadaily.com.cn]
Nearly 100 international students joined Chinese teachers and students at Shanghai Library East on Jan 29 for the launch ceremony of the 8th Shanghai Get-together Writing Contest alongside a Spring Festival celebration.
The event offered a taste of Chinese New Year traditions while offering deeper insight into Chinese culture.
Now in its eighth year, the writing contest encourages foreigners to share their experiences in Shanghai through written works and short videos.
To mark the 70th anniversary of diplomatic relations between China and Africa in 2026, a special prize highlighting Sino-African friendship has been added, recognizing cross-cultural stories rooted in Shanghai.
"Shanghai welcomes the world with openness and fosters friendship through inclusiveness," said Su Ling, vice president of the Shanghai People's Association for Friendship with Foreign Countries. "We are committed to building bridges of mutual understanding and expanding our global network of friends."
Past winner Ijaz Ul Haq from Pakistan described Shanghai as a second classroom, where everyday encounters shaped his experience beyond academics.
International students and attendees pose for a group photo at the launch of the 8th Shanghai Get-together Writing Contest and a Spring Festival celebration in Shanghai on Jan 29, 2026. [Photo by Luo Bin/chinadaily.com.cn]
Dutch artist William Andrew van der Meeren, who has lived in Shanghai for 14 years, said he hopes to share his Shanghai experiences through the contest, aiming to help more international visitors understand and appreciate the city.
"It's a great opportunity for everyone around the world who lives in the city to express themselves," he added, praising Shanghai as a convenient city that blends international and Chinese cultures, helping remove barriers for international residents.
The celebration featured performances by international students from Shanghai Normal University and Shanghai Ocean University, including Chinese poetry recitations, Pacific Island dances, and African dance.Attendees also took part in activities such as a horse-themed art exhibition, traditional hanfu clothing experiences, and traditional Chinese rubbing art workshops.
Samuel Dibebe Moungui, a student from Cameroon at Shanghai Ocean University, performed an African dance with his peers.
"We want more and more people to understand Africa, particularly the cultures of Equatorial Guinea and Cameroon," Moungui explained, highlighting the role of such events in promoting cultural exchange.
In addition, he shared his fondness for Shanghai's urban landscape, especially the night view of the Bund.
Luo Bin contributed to this story.
