BNBU recently co-hosted a faculty-student gala titled "Our Shared Gratitude at BNBU", providing a vibrant platform for both local and foreign staff and students to connect together.
Group photo
The event began with opening remarks from Prof Guo Haipeng, Dean of the School of General Education, and Ms Iris Xiang Lai, Vice Chair of the BNBU Union. They emphasised themes of gratitude and the power of building an inclusive, unified community.
Prof Guo Haipeng, Dean of the School of General Education
Ms Iris Xiang Lai, Vice Chair of the BNBU Union
The afternoon featured performances that created a dynamic dialogue between traditions.
The energy of a lion dance and a powerful martial arts demonstration showcased the vitality of campus cultural clubs. This was followed by a diverse range of musical performances, from the Chinese song “Rice Aroma”, which expressed heartfelt gratitude, to Western classics like “Right Here Waiting”. The unique sound of the Central Asian “Dombyra” further highlighted the global campus community and fostered cultural exchange throughout the gathering.
A defining moment was the chorus by CFL teachers, who beautifully blended the Chinese folk song "Jasmine Flower" with the Western classic "Edelweiss" in a performance titled "Rhyme of Flowers".
Performance
The celebration extended beyond the stage during the buffet and interactive game sessions. The food area was a testament to multiculturalism, featuring a special "Shared Food Section" with dishes prepared by international faculty. Attendees could enjoy British Shrimp Cakes, Spanish Mediterranean salad, and a mix of other overseas and local favourites, from roasted turkey and pumpkin pie to radish cake and pan-fried dumplings. As faculty and students shared food and participated in games, the space was filled with laughter and conversation, turning simple interactions into genuine moments of cross-cultural connection.
Participants enjoy the game and the show
In his closing speech, Dr Darren Zhiquan Weng, Director of the International Development Office, shared personal stories from his own study abroad experiences, reinforcing the university's mission to "nurture new talents through culture."
Dr Darren Zhiquan Weng, Director of the International Development Office
From CFL and MPRO
Photographer: Hanna He
Editor: Juan Rengifo, Cecilia Yu
