The author poses for a photo in Wuxi. [Photo provided to wuxi.gov.cn]
When I first arrived in Wuxi, I was captivated by its quiet elegance, tree-lined streets, lakeside reflections, and a rhythm of life that blended tradition with progress. But beyond its beauty, Wuxi became a place where I discovered the power of cultural exchange and community.
As a master's student in design, I've always been interested in how people connect across languages and borders. Living in Wuxi allowed me to study and participate actively and meaningfully in local life. Over the past year, I've been fortunate to work with the Wuxi International Volunteers. I participated in large-scale events like Wuxi International Month and the Cherry Blossom Festival. These experiences allowed me to support cultural exchange efforts while interacting with people from many different backgrounds. I was honored to receive an award recognizing my contributions, encouraging me to do more.
Another highlight of my time in Wuxi was participating in the Dragon Boat Race in 2025. It was my first time competing in a traditional sport of this kind, and it gave me a firsthand appreciation of the strength, teamwork, and spirit behind the iconic event. Training alongside local and international teammates, I experienced a sense of unity that went beyond language.
In addition to volunteering, I've also taken up tai chi classes with the international volunteer group. The early morning sessions in Wuxi's parks have become the best part of my day. It's more than just movement, it's a quiet reflection of the Chinese culture of balance, mindfulness, and harmony.
In addition to these group activities, I've also found personal avenues to engage with and celebrate the culture around me. I was proud to be recognized in the Reading of Jiangsu campaign and later win third prize in a local photography competition, which gave me new ways to express and share my life experience in Jiangsu. Whether through storytelling or capturing daily moments through my lens, these opportunities deepened my connection with the place I now call home.
My time in Wuxi has been about more than adapting to a new environment; it's been about becoming part of something. Whether through volunteering, learning traditional practices, creative expression, or supporting cross-cultural dialogue, I've found that there are countless ways to build bridges between cultures. I'm grateful to call Wuxi my home away from home, and I look forward to continuing to share in its story.
The author, hailing from Bangladesh, is studying at Jiangnan University.
If you would like to share your Wuxi stories, then send us your writings at wuxiexpatstories@outlook.com.
