The 9th Asian Winter Games in Harbin are more than just a showcase of athletic talent; they’re a melting pot of cultures from across Asia and beyond. Among the dedicated volunteers making the event a success is Wang Yi, an Arabic language student from Beijing International Studies University.
Serving as an IBC Rights-Holding Broadcaster Service Assistant, Wang Yi plays a crucial role in bridging language gaps between the Chinese mainland and Arabic-speaking visitors. Her proficiency in Arabic has not only been invaluable in assisting athletes and media personnel but has also led to heartwarming cultural exchanges.
When a group of visitors from Saudi Arabia needed help navigating local mobile apps to order food, Wang Yi was there to guide them. Understanding their dietary preferences, she went a step further by recommending local halal restaurants, ensuring they felt at home in Harbin. Touched by her kindness, her new friends shared dates and perfume with her, traditional gifts symbolizing hospitality and appreciation in their culture.
“I wanted them to have a memorable experience here,” Wang Yi said. “It’s amazing how language can connect people from different parts of the world.”
Wang Yi’s efforts exemplify the spirit of the Asian Winter Games—uniting people through sports and fostering mutual understanding. Volunteers like her remind us that behind every grand event are individuals who dedicate themselves to making a difference, one interaction at a time.
