Editor’s note Welcome to Gen Z Weekly, our new column dedicated to showcasing the voices and experiences of Generation Z in Shenzhen and beyond. We’ve created this space to share authentic, youth-driven narratives that reflect the energy and perspectives of today’s young people. Through Gen Z Weekly, expect to hear directly from international students and Chinese youth about their campus lives, personal journeys, and thoughtful insights. Lian Jiaqi 403950598@qq.com DRAWN by Shenzhen’s global reputation as a vibrant hub of culture, innovation, and entrepreneurship, Jeeranun Soontornpornjaroen, from Thailand, chose to study Chinese language at Shenzhen University in 2018. Among her most meaningful cultural experiences during her studies was the course Lingnan Culture and Art, taught by Ms. Qin Qing at the College of International Exchange (CIE). “This course deeply enhanced my understanding of Lingnan’s unique heritage. It covered local cuisine, travel destinations, and regional festivals,” Soontornpornjaroen shared. “From tasting traditional dishes to exploring iconic Lingnan architecture like the Hakka walled villages, every lesson brought me closer to the authentic lifestyle of the region.” Soontornpornjaroen has also embraced southern China’s vibrant festivals, including the Dragon Boat Festival in Guangdong Province and Guangxi’s Sanyuesan celebrations, which fostered a strong sense of community and cultural connection. “It felt reminiscent of home, as southern Chinese culture is also prevalent in Thailand,” she noted. After completing her Chinese language studies at Shenzhen University (SZU), Soontornpornjaroen returned to Thailand but maintained a strong bond with Shenzhen. In 2024, she came back to the city to pursue a master’s degree in business administration at SZU. Hailing from Bangkok, where the startup ecosystem is still emerging, Soontornpornjaroen was eager to understand how Shenzhen, home to tech giants like Tencent, DJI, and Huawei, achieved such rapid growth. “I wanted to immerse myself in a city known for its future-focused ‘business DNA,’” she said. “Shenzhen’s ecosystem allows me to learn far beyond the classroom.” As a business administration student, Soontornpornjaroen has benefited from numerous hands-on opportunities. “Visits to Tencent showcased the evolution from QQ to the expansive WeChat ecosystem, while Huawei’s advancements in foldable smartphones and electric vehicles highlight impressive vertical expansion and diversification within the tech industry,” she reflected. Comparing Shenzhen’s business environment to Bangkok’s, she emphasized the city’s stronger drive for technology and innovation. “Startups here can design and produce prototype products within days because all components are readily accessible locally — a speed rarely found elsewhere.” Beyond academics, Soontornpornjaroen delights in southern China’s rich culture, especially Cantonese cuisine like dim sum and Chaoshan dishes, which, although familiar from home, taste more authentic and nuanced in Shenzhen. Adapting to Shenzhen’s vibrant pace has accelerated her personal growth and nurtured a genuine sense of belonging. “This city’s unique blend of tradition and innovation perfectly aligns with my future aspirations. After graduation, I hope to explore more career opportunities in the business sector and build my life here,” she reflected. | 