The inaugural "National Treasures Global Vision" Art Contest and Cultural Exchange Program, hosted by the Shine Tak Foundation, concluded its award ceremony and welcome luncheon on August 24 (Monday) at the Hong Kong Palace Museum. Centered on the theme of "National Treasures" — with the first edition focusing on animals — the program encouraged young people to interpret their cultural heritage through art while learning about other civilizations. Delegations, award-winning students and parents from 13 countries gathered in Hong Kong from August 23 to 27, joining the ceremony and a series of cultural exchange activities.
During interviews, ambassadors and consular representatives repeatedly underscored one message: art is a universal language. They said it helps young people build confidence, widen their horizons, form friendships across borders, and deepen their appreciation of their own cultural heritage.
Paata Kalandadze, Ambassador of Georgia to China, said the event gives the younger generation a chance to "express themselves in the most international and universal language, which is art." He stressed that self-expression at a young age helps lay a key foundation for the future, while also strengthening "cross-border relations." He added that young people should feel from the very beginning that they are "citizens of the universe," grounded in international friendship and understanding.
Anyin Choo, Ambassador of Guyana to China, called cultural exchange a vital part of people-to-people ties. She said the "National Treasures" project allows young people to look "beyond our borders," embrace cultural inclusiveness, and express creative talent through painting — while connecting more deeply with their own culture, sharing it with the world, and building the confidence to become "global ambassadors" for cultural promotion.
Dalva Allen, Ambassador of Angola to China, noted that art and culture are fundamental pillars for developing human capital. She said the program helps children learn about other parts of the world, share knowledge with peers, and "unlock the universe of potential" they hold in the field of art. She also hoped more countries — especially more African countries — would join the platform in the future.
Kojo Bonsu, Ambassador of Ghana to China, described the initiative as "a very good thing," saying many young people rarely have the chance to meet peers from around the world. After seeing impressive artworks by 12- and 14-year-olds, he said participation helps them learn, make friends, and exchange ideas.
Former Colombian Ambassador to China Sergio Fausto Cabrera emphasized that educating young people is one of the most important responsibilities for any country, adding that the program's support for Colombia's youth formation and education is "really very important."
Ibrahima Sory Sylla, Ambassador of Senegal to China, highlighted Senegal's young population, noting that "more than seventy percent" are under the age of 24. He said strengthening human capital starts with education, and that the Shine Tak Foundation's initiative matters because it enables teenagers and students to come to Hong Kong — not only to join the drawing contest, but also to showcase culture built on solidarity, mutual understanding, and, most importantly, a peaceful society.
Iran's Consul General in Hong Kong Hassan Doutaghi thanked the organizers and said the event symbolizes "cultural convergence and friendship among nations." He noted that children from more than 13 countries took part, creating "a platform where young talents can shine." From Iran's perspective, he said the program strengthens appreciation for cultural heritage, pride and identity, while art and history serve as "a universal bridge" that fosters dialogue, mutual respect, and future global cultural ambassadors.
Vietnam's Consul General in Hong Kong Le Duc Hanh said feedback from Vietnamese communities was highly positive. He observed that the contest encouraged children to collaborate and reflect on "national identity," while also strengthening intergenerational exchange within families and communities. In a world where children can be drawn to technology, he said the program is both important and fun, and helps participants explore a nation's inner world and history.
Acting Consul General of Belarus in Hong Kong Darya Bohdan said she was glad Belarus could participate, stressing that people-to-people exchange is a powerful way to introduce culture. She noted that children "have no borders" in their minds, and expressed hope the event would help participants understand each other's culture, history, daily life, and build lasting connections.
Philippines Consul General in Hong Kong Romulo Victor M. Israel Jr. said the project encourages young Filipinos to learn more about the country's "living treasures." He noted that this year the Philippines chose the Philippine Eagle as its theme — a symbol of ecological preservation — and said such awareness can raise young people's attention to environmental challenges, from local issues to global warming.
Kazakhstan's Consul General in Hong Kong, Bauyrzhan Dosmanbetov, said the program offered a valuable chance for children to visit Hong Kong and strengthen people-to-people ties, which he called even more crucial than business-to-business links. He also mentioned that a direct flight is expected to open in January, which he believes will further support closer connections with Hong Kong.
With the award ceremony successfully concluded and the cultural exchange program completed, organizers and participants said they hope the initiative will continue to use Hong Kong as a platform for cross-cultural dialogue — allowing more young people worldwide to learn from one another through art, deepen mutual understanding, and build friendships that go beyond borders.
Related News:
Watch This | A twirl, a 'Fu' and a taste of China: Young visitors get hands-on with Chinese culture
Watch This | From books to reality: Young artists from around world meet giant pandas in HK
Exclusive | Iranian father and daughter brave long journey to HK for art and cultural exchange
Comment