Youth Month Video Competition Celebrates China–South Africa Cultural Ties

In celebration of Youth Month, the Chinese Consulate General in Johannesburg (CCGJ) has launched an exciting new initiative aimed at young learners in South Africa. The “Driving Education Culture: The China–South Africa Learner Correspondent” short video competition invites learners from grades 7 to 12 in Gauteng and Free State to participate in a creative cross-cultural project highlighting the deepening relationship between China and South Africa.

This engaging competition encourages young people to act as youth ambassadors through the production of a short video that showcases their research, creativity, and cultural awareness. The videos must be between 3 and 5 minutes long and offer an insightful look into the beauty, traditions, and tourism of both nations.

Learners can choose between two compelling themes. The first, “China & South Africa: A Journey Through Two Nations,” asks participants to act as travel guides, introducing scenic destinations, traditions, and landscapes from both countries. The second option, “Discover Two Cities: A Travel Guide for China & South Africa,” invites learners to compare a city from each country, exploring their food, history, landmarks, and lifestyles.

Participation is open to individuals and teams of up to five learners. While only individual entries will be considered for the top three prizes, teams will be eligible for a special team award and invitation to the celebration event. Submissions are free and must be sent via WhatsApp to +27 67 609 3999 along with the learner’s full name, province, school, grade, and contact details. Entry submissions officially opened on 19 May and will close at midnight on 20 June 2025.

All entries must be original, factual, and non-AI-generated. Videos should be positive in tone and reflect real experiences or research. They can be presented in either English or Chinese and must include a clear title and the date of creation. Videos should also be visually stable and of good quality, suitable for sharing on short video platforms.

The competition boasts generous prizes. The first-place winner will receive R2,500 and a certificate of honor. Second and third places will earn R2,000 and R1,000 respectively, along with certificates. Two winning teams will each receive custom panda bags for all members.

Beyond the cash prizes, the top 50 participants will be invited to a special award ceremony at the Chinese Consulate in Johannesburg in early July, where they will also receive a stationery package.

Winners will be officially announced on 30 June 2025 via the Consulate’s social media platforms: X (formerly Twitter) at @ChnConsulateJhb and Facebook at @Chinese Consulate-General Joburg.

Learners are reminded to obtain consent from their schools and parents or guardians before participating. This initiative not only promotes cultural exchange but also helps South African youth develop storytelling, media production, and global awareness skills.