When Josie-Anne Ashley, the General Secretary of the Solomon Islands National Youth Congress, returned home from a seminar in Guangdong Province, China, she brought back more than just souvenirs—she carried stories of connection, innovation, and inspiration.
“Chinese hospitality—expressed through thoughtful gift-giving, warm smiles, and genuine curiosity—often bridged the language gaps we encountered,” Josie-Anne shared. Though language differences existed, real-time translation tools and open hearts allowed meaningful cross-cultural exchanges. “This journey showed us that language differences need not be a barrier to collaboration,” she reflected.
A standout moment for Josie was visiting Wuyi University’s China-Pacific Island Countries Center for Disaster Risk Reduction Cooperation. “It filled me with joy to see Solomon Islander youth training alongside peers from other Pacific nations,” she said. “Watching them develop skills to tackle our region’s vulnerability to cyclones and rising seas made me proud.”
She also found inspiration in China’s inclusive economic model, especially in cities like Shenzhen, where young people are launching tech startups or running sustainable businesses. “Even cleaning services have been turned into thriving small enterprises, with government support. It’s a reminder that all work is valuable,” she said.
In rural Guangdong, Josie witnessed how modernization and domestic tourism are empowering communities and closing urban-rural gaps. “Even the elderly remain active in local markets and services. It’s a model of multi-generational participation,” she explained.
Josie believes Solomon Islands can learn from these models. “We can start small—with local delivery services or clean-up crews. With the right support, our people can build livelihoods that uplift communities.”
Josie’s reflections show not only a deep appreciation for another culture, but a strong hope for her own. As she put it: “With passion and vision, we can create a resilient, inclusive future for Solomon Islands.”
