World Youth Dialogue: The Playbook for Planet Players
Medicinal Cuisine Culture Discovery Tour
Highlights
By Fang Boyi
Around Grain Rain and the World Earth Day, international Gen Zers participated in two cross-cultural exchange events in Hangzhou that highlighted the power of youth through Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and innovative public service.
On Apr 20, the “TCM Goes Global: A Gen Z City Experience Officers Event--Medicinal Cuisine Culture Discovery Tour” was held at Zhejiang Chinese Medical University. Over 100 Gen Z international students from over 20 countries attended a lecture on medicinal cuisine, learned how to make Bazhen Cake, and engaged in immersive activities to explore the wisdom of TCM. Participants also explored the connections between TCM dietary therapy and modern nutrition science, gaining fresh perspectives on wellness and healthcare.
Two days later, on the 56th World Earth Day, the “World Youth Dialogue” event brought together 14 Gen Z international youths from countries including the United States, the UK, and Germany, along with Hangzhou entrepreneurs and students. They discussed four key topics--biodiversity, sustainable fashion, philanthropy, and social innovation. Through collaborative brainstorming and actionable solutions, they tackled global challenges and presented initiatives on environmental protection, waste upcycling, and cultural exchanges. These discussions demonstrated the sense of responsibility and commitment of global youth to shaping a better future.
Both events were organized by the Hangzhou International Communication Center and other local institutions as a key component of the program “Hangzhou: A Window to China’s 5000-year Civilization”. They promoted the global reach of traditional Chinese culture and highlighted how Gen Zers are gradually changing the world through a dual focus on culture and public welfare. By fostering mutual understanding and exchange between cities, the events allowed the world to better understand and fall in love with Hangzhou--a city quickly emerging as a dynamic hub for international dialogue.