Two years ago, as the Belt and Road Initiative celebrated its 10th anniversary, a group of 40 Kenyan students sent a collective letter to President Xi Jinping. Their message went beyond words: tucked inside was a simple train ticket, a gesture that captured the spirit of connection and hope at the heart of the project.
At the opening session of the Ministerial Meeting on the Global Civilization Dialogue, during the Story Sharing segment, Jamlick Kariuki from Beijing Jiaotong University stepped into the spotlight to unravel the story behind that ticket. He explained that no matter the distance, their aspirations ride on the same rails of opportunity.
This small piece of paper resonated with meeting attendees, sparking conversations about youth engagement, cultural exchange, and the power of everyday symbols to bridge continents. For many young global citizens, the train ticket became more than memorabilia—it represented a shared journey toward a connected future.
As the dialogue continues to bring together thought leaders, entrepreneurs, and students from around the world, Jamlick’s story reminds us that sometimes the most powerful messages travel in the simplest forms. One ticket, one letter, and 40 voices combined to remind a leader and a global audience that real impact starts with personal stories.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
