"Studying in a different culture, you can gain more growth," said Luo Xuejuan, an Olympic swimming gold medalist, at a meeting on Nov 29.
In the meeting, over 50 overseas students currently studying in Chinese universities were inspired by the Olympic champion and sought advice from the sports master. The students come from various Asian countries and were curious about Luo’s story from the Olympics to the Asian Games.
Luo, celebrated for her triumph in the women's 100m breaststroke at the 2004 Summer Olympics, has since transitioned from an athlete to an influential figure in sports event organization and a passionate advocate for Chinese culture.
"My journey from an athlete to an event organizer is a unique experience, enriching my role as a promoter of Chinese culture, both on and off the field," Luo stated.
In recognition of her long-term contributions to sports and cultural exchanges, Luo, a native of Hangzhou, was designated as an ambassador during the city’s bid for the 19th Asian Games in 2015. And, she also became the first torchbearer in the torch relay of the Games.
Highlighting the symbolic significance of the "Eternal Flame" torch she carried as the first torchbearer of the 19th Asian Games in Hangzhou, Luo expressed her desire for the students to continue spreading Chinese culture globally.
"I wish through this meeting with overseas students, that they can take the torch from my hands and bring Chinese culture back to their countries, spreading it all around the world," said Luo.
The event was organized by the China International Youth Exchange Center and Kr Star Innovation. It aims at fostering understanding among foreign youth about the Asian Games and promoting intercultural exchanges across Asia.
Lasting 16 days, around 12,000 athletes from 45 countries and regions shared unforgettable moments in Hangzhou. The Asian Games is an "unprecedented success", highlighting peace, solidarity and inclusiveness through sports.
"I really like the mascots of the Asian Games. They symbolize the spirit of vitality and fair competition," said Korean student Lee Chaewon. "The Asian Games are a grand stage for cultural exchange among Asian countries and a shared honor for all Asian nations."
Adding a personal touch, Joyce Ling Chieng Ying, a Malaysian national of Chinese descent and a senior at Beijing Jiaotong University, expressed how the Games deepened her connection to her ancestral land.
"It allows me to learn more about the country where my grandpa lived before and gives a strong sense of belonging to China," Ying said.
As president of the Malaysian Students Association in Beijing, Ying actively fosters cultural connections, mirroring the spirit of the Asian Games.
Gao Wenjun contributed to this story.
