文家輝 

Man Ka Fai

Oxford University,

United Kingdom

Good morning Dr Lam, Mr Chan, Ms Leung, Prof. Li, Prof. Poon, Mrs Ho, Mrs Lee, Fellow delegates, Ladies and Gentleman.

Let me introduce myself: As Jeremiah quite correctly announced, my name is Garfield Man. However, Garfield is a name that I have adopted only for use in the trip. My real name is Ka-Fai Man, which sounds like Gar Fei Mowl, hence the name Garfield! I am born and bred in the UK and have recently graduated from the University of Oxford in Chemistry; there goes the days of my student life! I guess I am termed as a BBC, which stands for British Born Chinese. I’m also known as a banana! Why? Well, I’m white on the inside and yellow on the outside! Well, enough about me. Don’t want to bore you guys to the extent of sleepiness!

Now, I wish to say that it is a great honour to represent Europe to discuss my feelings and experience about the 3rd China Synergy Programme for Outstanding Youths. I suppose the first question is why I am on this trip. What am I hoping to accomplish? Well, predominantly three things: One, to seek for my identity. I want to know where I belong. Born in Britain, but with Chinese parents and a Chinese upbringing. Two, I wish to uncover as well to discover China and its culture. I wish to see for my own eyes the development and status of the country; because, beforehand all my images of China derived from hearing what other people have said and from reading various sources of literature. Finally, I want to make new friends and to hopefully develop friendship bonds with you all. To exchange ideas and views, and to learn about one another’s culture from around the world. In sum, I wanted to participate in this trip as open book having a new chapter written within.

I would like to share with you my experiences in Shanghai, the most modern of all cities in China. I city of such splendour and beauty that it literally opens your eyes. Here, I had visited a number of different types of places, which are now of sentimental remembrance to me. The first were Museums and Cultural Places, such as the Shanghai Urban Planning Exhibition and the Shanghai Museum. Here, I learnt about the development of modern Shanghai from its past to the present. I marvelled at the rapid changes to the city in such a short space of time. I was also able to experience a feel of the past by visiting a number of picture and artefact galleries. One of the things I learnt were the different styles Chinese artists had with their drawings. One artist always drew three trees with mountainous scenery, so one can always recognise that the drawing belonged to him. The second places of visit were the Universities in Shanghai, namely Fudan, Tongji and Shanghai Jiaotong. In these institutions, I managed to meet with and to make a number of great friends, who I was able to share my opinions with and obtain a greater understanding of their way of life in China. I was also fortunate enough to witness a number of truly amazing spectacles and performances at the universities. It made me realise the huge talent that is out there. I was completely mesmerised with their ability and vast array of skills ranging from dancing to acrobatics! Oh, and how I could I forget the memorable debating competition, where although there three heated and competitive discussions ranging from the freedom to smoke at universities to whether modernisation implies westernisation, all were conducted in a friendly and non-hostile environment. I was able to see how wonderfully versed a number of my colleagues were, and what true sportsmanship was displayed. Finally, I was able to pass upon many Leisure & Entertainment regions. Namely, the Boat Tour at Huangpo Jiang, where I was able to witness the extraordinary night-life scenery depicting a number of glamorous architectural buildings, which made me realise and appreciate how modern Shanghai has become. Further, I also made visits to a number of shopping outlets like Nan Qing Road and Chenghuang Miao, where I managed to eat myself silly with a delicious assortment of comestibles, including Sil Loon Biaos, which on the contrary to what Mrs Lee had said about losing 3Ibs, I must have gained 3Ibs! Finally, the unforgettable farewell party at Yuan Bo Hotel, where Ivan and Zara were fantastic MCs doubling up as wonderful comedy duos! Again, I was able to see a wonderful array of talent, including club dancing from Mi Duo Yi and breakdancing from Steve. Oh and how can I not forget my own truly amazing performance, i.e.: my poetry! That night also displayed true friendship amongst the delegates, where a mini birthday celebration was held on behalf of Derrick. Oh what a wonderful occasion!

In conclusion, I would like to say it was a privilege to participate in the programme, which provided an excellent and informative insight into China and its culture; firmly meeting its objectives. My deepest thanks to the support of the sponsors and donors, and for the people organising the programme, which to accommodate over 200 people, especially students, is not an easy task! Well, it’s hard to believe it’s the end after 2 fantastic weeks. Hopefully, we can reunite one day be it in China or anywhere around the world! Thank-you.

鄭用穎

Teh Yung Ying, Benjamin

University of New South Wales,

Australia

"If you do not walk on the Great Wall, you're not a great man".

To me, this well-known Chinese saying is able to effectively summarise my experiences on the 3rd China Synergy Programme, of which I was a delegate. Not only is this saying able to remind me of the satisfaction gained from climbing such a magnificent structure, but it is also able to allude to the greater fulfilment that I experienced in being able to visit my Motherland for the first time.

Overall, I believe that the 3rd CSP gave delegates like myself an opportunity to experience China in a unique manner that will never be repeated on any other journey. Over the 14 day journey, we were able to visit wonderful historic sites, ranging from the Great Wall to the Forbidden Palace, from the Luguo Bridge to Tiananmen Square. We were also able to observe the social and economic development of China through visits to businesses and universities. Through these experiences, I was able to realise how diverse and ancient my heritage is, and how China is rapidly modernising and becoming well-positioned for the challenges of the new century.

I believe that the objectives of the trip, to learn more about "China and Chinese culture", were more than fulfilled. The fact that delegates were comprised of students from all over the world meant that we were able to learn not only more about China, but also more about countries as diverse as the United States, Canada, Britain and Austria. As well, the journey provided us with the unique opportunity of forming lasting friendships with people all over the world, these friendships being cemented over our shared experiences during the 14 days.

Overall, I believe that through the 3rd CSP I have been given a clearer picture of who I am as a Chinese and where I have come from. I have memories of the journey that will last a lifetime, and upon concluding it I can say that I am truly proud to be a Chinese, and honoured to be an "ambassador" for my homeland.

賴遠明

Lai Van Minh

University of Bern,

Switzerland

I came to Hong Kong without knowing a lot about how the whole CSP is going to be. The only thing I knew before is what I heard from a friend of mine who attended CSP2. She told me about how great it was to have had the chance to meet overseas students from all over the world. She told me about how much fun they had together during the whole trip and finally she also told me how sad she was when the trip was over and everybody had to go back to their residence country again. When my friend talks about other CSP2 delegates, she never said “my CSP-friends”, but she always uses the expressions “my CSP-sisters”, or “my CSP-brothers”, so when I came here I didn't know a lot about all activities, but I expected to find some really good friends, friends from all over the world.

Now that the trip is almost over, I can confirm my friend’s experience: I've found a lot of very good friends and I think that’s one of the most wonderful things CSP3 could give me.

方景達

Fong, Thomas

University of Toronto,

Canada

The purpose of the 3rd China Synergy Programme was to allow outstanding youths from around the world to learn more about China and Chinese culture. On achieving this purpose, 180 outstanding youths were given the opportunity to gain deeper insight into Chinese culture by travelling in Hong Kong, Guangzhou, Beijing and Shanghai. Personally, I enjoyed the 15 days programme because it exposed me to many aspects of China such as its history and culture, economic development, and scenic attractions.

In Hong Kong, the visiting of various areas of the city allowed us to“Be a Hong Kong Citizen”and learn by interacting with the local people. In Guangzhou, the tour of the Ancestral Temple of the Chan family provided us with an example of honouring your heritage and the importance of tracing your Chinese roots. In Beijing, as well as learning about the historical significance of the Great Wall and Forbidden City, CSP delegates witnessed and experienced the excitement when Beijing was announced as the city for the 2008 Olympics. That victory not only represented the chance for Beijing to host the 2008 Olympics, but represented the dedication, commitment, and hard work of all Chinese people. In Shanghai, the visiting at the Shanghai Urban Planning Exhibition Hall and the Pudung area revealed rapid economic development that is currently taking place.

Overall, the 3rd China Synergy Programme has been an informational and educational experience, which has been highlighted by events such as meeting with government officials, visiting famous universities, and lectures from famous professors. It is evident that many Chinese people have settled in many parts around the world; however, the 3rd China Synergy Programme has created the opportunity for outstanding youths to come back to their home land to learn and rediscover China and its culture. Thank you to all CSP organizers, sponsor, mentors, coordinators, staff and delegates for making the 3rd CSP an unforgettable experience that I will treasure forever.

Eliza FOO

The Australian National University, Australia　

I believe that the interaction with the local students from the essence of this trip is by communicating with them, and I learn more about the lifestyle and culture in China. Only by listening to them and I understang the meaning of being a Chinese - the descendants of the Dragon, and for that, I am utterly thankful for the opportumity which I believe has influenced my life when I look at things in one way or another, and this was the occasion which I will treasure and remember forever.

Monica CHIU

University of New South Wales, Australia

The CSP trip was one of the most eye-opening events of my life. I was able to meet many people who had given a realistic perspective of China as well as from the Chinese university students.

My most memorable experience came from talking to all the CSP delegates from around the world and with those of China. Despite our legal and economic system in which we live in, be it western or Chinese, we all share the same ideals to succeed and live a happy life. Although we may be very different culturally, we were drawn together by the influence and pervasiveness of Chinese values that existed and lived within us.

Before the trip, I had thought, “Am I Australian Chinese, or Chinese Australian ?” After meeting the CSP delegates, I realised that the difficulty of moving out of our Cultural Comfort Zone” was a challenge which we all face, and it was not something that I only had been feeling.

I thank all CSP delegates for such a wonderful experience which has truly changed my life !

Onpan CHEUNG State University of New York Upstate Medical University, USA　

I took a few Chinese history classes while studying in Hong Kong years ago. The history behind the unification of China, and such names as 'Qin Shi Huang' certainly sound familiar. However, I always felt any capacity to appreciate the long history of China a rock bottom.

After living in the states for a good part of my life and regretfully, with little understanding of the part and present of China and Hong Kong, my identity of being Chinese was long forgotten with time.

This year's CSP program, however, helped rediscovering the missing cultural elements in my life.

Seeing the magnificent construction of the Great Wall, and the mysterious Terro Cotta revitalized my spirit. Being able to land my feet once again on the soil of my motherland is certainly uplifting.

I wish to express my deepest gratitude to the organizing committees for their effort and commitment to strife for a successful mission far this year's program.

Justina HUI

University of Wisconsin - Madison, USA　

The friendship made during the CSP trip has been so strong, because no matter how different we are, we are still connected by our Chinese heritage. I opt the opportunity to make wonderful friends from Australia, Canada, London, and even my home country in the United States. Everyone has welcomed me to come and visit them after having known each other for merely 17 days.

Gary CHUANG 

Yale University, USA　

Not only did we look at China from an historical perspective, but we also had the opportunities to learn more about the future potentials, and the possibility of China to become one of the world's leading nations.

Starting with visiting the General Electric Plant in Nansha, Guanzhou to Baoshan Iron and Steel Mill, these visitations convinced me that China still has a lot of potential for economic and technological growth.

Local students at Xian Jiatung University, Beijing University, Tsinghua University, Shanghai Hadung University, impressed me as very open to new ideas, also being widely social, and knowledgeable.

These young people will undoubtedly be the main force in the future development of Chinese culture and technology. The program leaves me very optimistic about the future of China.

Luke SU 

University of New South Wales, Australia

Two weeks really isn't enough to teach me everything about China, to show me everything I needed to know and to see a lot of China. It is supposed to remind me about the China I have lost and increase my desire to increase contact. I am amazed by this China, the students, the food, the culture, the economy, the development and those nice pubs.

 Another thing I did not expect from this programme was the friendships I made, we formed such a bond that as our group parted there were hugs and tears everywhere.

Jennie CHEN

University of British Columbia, Canada

It was such a wonderful treat to meet with our peers in Beijing because it gave us that added dimension to our stay. Talking with them, understanding their perspectives, their attitudes, and so forth, enriched our experience so much more. I began to break the stereotypes and the barriers that once existed between myself and people of the Mainland.

Michael LAU 

University of Pennsylvania, USA　

I feel that this cultural exchange component is the most important part of the programme - being able to communicate with local students and experience China in the shoes of a local resident. Listening to local students expressing their views on issues such as communism, economic liberalization, pop culture etc. have been eye-opening for me.