As the Dragon Boat Festival approaches, more than 20 expats gathered at the Shekou Management and Service Center for Expats (Shekou MSCE) to explore the essence of traditional Chinese culture and craft their own zongzi.
The Dragon Boat Festival ranks among China's four major traditional festivals, standing alongside the Chinese New Year, the Qingming Festival, and the Mid-Autumn Festival.
A mentor from the Shekou Community Evergreen Elders University told the participants that the Dragon Boat Festival is associated with many customs, including eating zongzi (sticky rice dumplings). After an introduction to the festival's historical significance, the participants took part in making zongzi under the guidance of the mentors.
Raj Oswal, a U.S. entrepreneur specializing in educational technology, was happy to attend the event despite his heavy workload. Having participated in the same gathering in 2019, this was Oswal's second time making zongzi.
Although he joked about his lack of improvement, he thoroughly enjoyed the experience. “This has given me a good understanding of how the Chinese celebrate these events, what is important for them, and the food and traditions around it,” Oswal said.
Eledir Busanello from Brazil has been in Shenzhen for six months, and she is enjoying her life in the city. “I joined a dragon boat race Sunday, and when I knew about the event for making zongzi, I would love to try,” Busanello said.
"I crafted three vegetarian zongzis filled with dates and peanuts, acquiring a new culinary skill. This experience deepened our understanding of Chinese culture."
At the beginning of the event, a Shekou MSCE staffer provided information about how expats could seek general advice and support for their stay in China, such as how to seek assistance for their residence registration. The Shekou Foreign Legal Assistance Center, with a team of lawyers specializing in diverse fields, provides professional legal services catering to expat residents' needs.
As a newcomer to Shenzhen, Busanello remains an avid explorer. "I am willing to know more about the insurance and medical services. Shekou MSCE is a nice place for seeking help," Busanello said.
The event was guided by the Shenzhen Municipal Science, Technology, and Innovation Bureau and jointly organized by the Shekou MSCE and EyeShenzhen.