Posted by The Daily CPEC
Posted by PR Newswire
Shared by Spokesperson
Shared by the Xi’s Monments
Praised by Xi’s Monments: How iQingdao Went Global at the Asian Winter Games
Mission Accepted: Precision Planning Under Pressure
At the beginning of this year, we received a challenging assignment—to report on the 9th Asian Winter Games in Harbin. With only ten days left before the opening ceremony, our team quickly went into full preparation mode: gathering information, developing topics, writing scripts, and coordinating logistics.
As the sole frontline reporter responsible for planning, filming, interviewing, and writing, I also needed strong collaboration from my teammates working behind the scenes on video editing, multilingual content creation, and overseas publishing. A detailed coordination schedule was created to ensure seamless connection between all fronts and enhance efficiency.
Cultural Diplomacy Through Gifts: Small Items, Big Meaning
To better promote Qingdao, I prepared souvenirs such as fridge magnets featuring city landmarks and traditional paper-cutting art inspired by the Winter Games. These cultural gifts were shared with global journalists and guests, becoming heartfelt tokens of friendship and showcasing the charm of Qingdao’s heritage and modern identity.
We also collaborated with leading Qingdao-based manufacturers to produce a video series titled “Made in Qingdao, Loved by the World,” aiming to elevate local brands’ global visibility and demonstrate their innovation and quality.
Proud but Anxious: Bearing the Weight of International Storytelling
I was informed that I would be the only media representative from Qingdao and the only international-oriented journalist from Shandong Province allowed into the opening ceremony. It was a moment of pride mixed with immense pressure.
From Reposting to Original Breakthroughs: Local Media Steps Up
In the past, local media often played a secondary role in national events. This time, we broke that mold. Inspired by creators like Li Ziqi and Dianxi Xiaoge, we believed that with strong storytelling, local voices can resonate globally.
We stepped beyond our comfort zone, creating compelling, original content designed for both domestic and international audiences.
New Chinese Style Goes Global: Cultural Confidence in Every Detail
During the Games, I chose to wear modern Hanfu (New Chinese Style) while reporting. The look drew attention from media and guests worldwide.
The President of Bahrain’s Olympic Committee even commented that my outfit reminded him of “a Chinese princess in historical dramas” and noted how young Chinese women now embrace this aesthetic.
I realized then: culture doesn’t always need grand gestures—it can begin with our attire, our words, and our presence. This is living proof of the growing pride Chinese youth feel toward their traditions.
Global Recognition: Shared by the General Secretary's Overseas Account
Our team released multiple original Vlogs across iQingdao’s Facebook, Twitter, and Eden.Xu’s page, covering the opening/closing ceremonies, athlete features, urban tourism, and green innovations.
Notably, our closing ceremony video was liked and shared by Xi's Monments—the only media content reposted besides that of People’s Daily during the Games.
Our videos were picked up by 14 international media outlets including PR Newswire, AAP, and Daily CPEC. In total, 17 global public figures—including Olympic judges, Caribbean journalists, and diplomats—reposted our content, reaching 35 countries and regions with over 20 million views, truly realizing “China stories told in an international voice.”
Becoming a Brand Ambassador: Promoting ‘Made in Qingdao’ to Asia
I’ve always believed that the ultimate value of media communication lies in boosting a city’s soft power, advancing tangible projects, and empowering local development.
This belief, shaped by six years of finance studies, guided our creation of feature stories like “City Face-Off: Qingdao vs. Harbin,” “Unboxing Qingdao at the Asian Winter Games,” and “A Reporter Becomes a Homegrown Brand Influencer.”
We introduced products like calcium milk biscuits and herbal soda from Qingdao to international journalists, cleverly weaving local specialties into cross-cultural conversations.
Gratitude and Resolve: The Journey Continues
On my journey back from Harbin, my heart was full. This experience not only gave me professional growth, but also fulfilled a deeper purpose: to bring Chinese stories to the world and enhance Qingdao’s global reputation.
Though there are still misunderstandings and stereotypes about China, I believe that with every story, every report, and every encounter, we chip away at those misconceptions.
This process may be long and challenging—but someone has to do it. I hope it’s us.
This time, I lived up to Qingdao’s expectations. And in the future, I will continue this mission—to tell the stories of a beautiful China to every corner of the world.
