National Library Summer Camp students at cultural education session
PRESS RELEASE
On July 21, 2025, the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China in Antigua and Barbuda collaborated with the Antigua and Barbuda National Public Library to host a cultural education session for students enrolled in the Library’s Summer Camp Programme. The interactive session was led by Mrs. Yili Zheng, a Chinese descendant in Antigua and Barbuda, who engaged students in an interactive discussion about Chinese heritage, history, and values.
Mrs. Yili Zheng engages summer camp students
Facilitated and translated by Chinese language educator Mrs.Ninette Benta-Lares, the session explored meaningful connections between Chinese and Antiguan culture, including comparisons between national flags, heroes, values, and customs. Mrs. Zheng shared personal reflections and historical insights that brought Chinese traditions to life for the young audience. She encouraged students to see themselves as future envoys of cultural understanding.
Library Director Mrs.Ryllis Mannix also expressed that sessions like these help foster deeper cross-cultural understanding and provide local students with global perspectives.
Students actively participated in discussions and shared thoughtful responses. One student from the Potter’s Primary School stated that the session was very enjoyable and one of the most educational of the programme, while another from the Antigua Girls’ High School said that they were inspired to learn more about China and even hoped to visit one day.
Summer camp student at cultural education session
China and Antigua may seem worlds apart, but initiatives like this show how shared values like family, discipline, and tradition can bridge that gap. Very uplifting.
When young people see themselves as ‘future envoys of cultural understanding,’ it plants confidence and purpose. Imagine what that generation can achieve
ahhhhhh Im loving this. I always enjoy these sort of cultural exchanges