Brian Sokutu
As the plane descended towards Beijing, a surge of anticipation coursed through Michael Andisiwe Mayalo.
In his memoir China Through My Eyes: A Journey of a Young South African to China – a chronicle of his first-hand cultural, political and economic experience in the People’s Republic of China, where he studied and lived – Mayalo has become well-accomplished young South African business leader, who has made it in the world’s second largest economy.
“Years of studying China’s meteoric rise, its ancient history and modern economic prowess, had finally culminated in this moment.
“I was eager to witness first-hand the transformation that had taken place in this vast nation.
“Stepping into the bustling streets of Beijing, I was immediately struck by the sheer scale and dynamism of the city.
“Towering skyscrapers, sleek bullet trains and throngs of people rushing about their daily lives, presented a stark contrast to the slower pace of life I was accustomed to in South Africa.
“The air buzzed with energy, a palpable sense of ambition and progress, permeated every corner,” wrote Mayalo.
This, he said, was “not just about the physical environment – it was about the energy of a nation on the move”.
Addressing the China-South Africa Youth Exchange Night held this week in the SA capital Pretoria, Mayalo, who has maintained a business presence in China, maintained that the world of diplomacy was not meant as “a retirement village”.
He said the youth had a big role to play in the diplomatic sphere.
Chinese ambassador to South Africa Wu Peng, said over years, many South African students like Mayalo, travelled to China for study and training – with the help of government scholarship.
Mayalo studied at Peking University, with the support of the Dongfang Scholarship obtained in 2022.
Describing it as “a beautiful example of connection – creating an understanding of each other, between our two countries”, Wu said he hoped the book would “inspire more young South Africans to go to China to study,
travel or work”.
“Go and see the real China for yourself.
“Make friends.
“Build ties,” said Wu.
Added Wu: “I may no longer be a young man myself, but standing here with so many bright and passionate young faces, brings back the energy and hope of youth.
“I feel inspired.”
Sharing the meaning of “four simple words – all starting with the letter C,” he said: “The first C is Connection.
“Young people are the future and hope of a nation.
“China has always believed in the power of youth – and we support exchange and learning between young people from China and the Global South.
“The second C is Capacity.
“Young people from all countries, care deeply about learning and jobs.
“In China, education is a fundamental sector that we give top priority.
“Through initiatives in digital development, green transformation and vocational training, we continue to empower young people with new skills and tools for innovation.”
The third C stood for Culture.
“South Africa’s philosophy of Ubuntu emphasises compassion and shared humanity,” said Wu.
The fourth C stood for Cooperation.
“Last year, at the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation Summit in Beijing, China announced new plans for the African youth.
“These include promoting the Future Africa Vocational
Education initiative – co-building engineering and technical colleges – setting up 10 more Luban Workshops.
“We will also provide 60 000 training opportunities in the next three years – mainly for youth and women,” he explained.
He urged young South Africans to seize the opportunities.
