The delegates from China, Malaysia, Korea, Vietnam, Pakistan, Thailand, Hong Kong and South Africa met at the Indaba Hotel in Johannesburg, with a little trepidation, but a lot of enthusiasm and excitement for what lies ahead.

The Icebreakers, as always, were a hit with all the young people as they learned about each other and discovered that, even from such varying backgrounds, they are still so much alike. Gaps were bridged and foundations for memorable friendships were established.

Zainab Abbas from Pakistan summed up the mood: “It has given me such warmth inside...like an inner glow, which despite the cold pushes me to keep on going.” And cold it was, but this did not deter the high spirits.

 

Hong Kong prepared dinner tonight (Fried rice, Sweet Dumplings and Lemon Tea) and for many it was a brand new experience as Sinenhlanhla Mkhwanazi from South Africa expressed, “...it was out of this world and it was the first time eating Hong Kong’s food and it was delicious!” Chopsticks proved a little tricky for many delegates. Mpho Sefo from South Africa was one of the few who felt she mastered the art,” I ended up being such a pro that I didn’t have to eat my rice grain by grain.”

Joyce Lee  from Taiwan also experienced something new on the food front: Rusks. She was glad to have found “a new love” because they “are so YUM... and the best thing is that it’s NOT fattening!”

An overwhelming feeling amongst this vibrant group is one of pride. Each delegate is proud to have been chosen; proud of the rich culture he/she is part of and proud to be able to share it with others and bring the world a little closer together. And where better to do that, than in pristine natural environs where the sky is blue and the air fresh.

Ren Wang of China says, “ With buildings around me in Beijing, my sight has been limited in a short distance, but it has been changed here.” Tina Tai from Taiwan feels “like I was part of the nature where hopes are lightened up.”

The evening was still young and Malaysia was the first to carry out an activity called “Mapping”. It was wonderful learning about Malaysia and seeing the beautiful map that was hand-made and artistically painted.

Although the night became quite frosty, stargazing thrilled everyone. With clear skies like most have never witnessed in the city, the experience was breath-taking. “It was the first time in my life that I saw the sky clean of pollution and the stars twinkling brightly in the dark night sky.” (Adnan Shaikh, Pakistan)

The mood around the campfire  before bed was captivating as delegates warmed their hands, laughed and chattered amiably together. Daniel Wu of Malaysia sums it up best, “It was definitely a once in a lifetime experience that I wouldn’t miss for anything.”