Life has a funny way of leading us to unexpected places, often guided by a little something called Yuanfen (缘分), a Chinese concept referring to a connection that brings people together.  I was among a group of Kenyan journalists who recently went on a whirlwind journey through China, blending history, culture, innovation, and laughter into an experience we’ll never forget.

Our adventure began in Beijing, a city where ancient wonders rise alongside glittering skyscrapers. The highlight? The Great Wall of China.

The rain poured as we went up the ancient steps, but the panoramic view from the top made every raindrop worthwhile. Standing on the wall felt like stepping into a history book, one that spoke of resilience, strength, and timeless pride.

At the zoo, we were charmed by giant pandas who reminded us of the playful side of this powerful nation.

The Pearl and Silk markets tested our bargaining skills to the limit. With calculators in hand and translation apps at the ready, we discovered that shopping here was both an art and a sport.

Driving through downtown Beijing, we spotted the famous CGTV towers, which are famously nicknamed Big Pants due to their shape. What struck us most about Beijing was not only its famous landmarks but the way the city works.

The streets were spotlessly clean, and traffic flowed efficiently. China is well known for orderliness, so there was no overlapping and barely any honks.

Our seminar sessions were just as enriching as our excursions. We explored China’s dynamic relationship with Africa, its evolving media landscape, and the cutting-edge AI platforms.

But learning didn’t end in the classroom. Between lectures, we learned Mandarin while our hosts picked up Swahili phrases as quickly as we learned to say “Ni Hao” (hello) and “Xie Xie” (thank you).

Leaving the capital behind, we flew into Guizhou province, a place defined by misty mountains, rushing rivers, and endless smiles. In Guiyang, the provincial capital, we stepped into the Guizhou Provincial Museum and Yangming Cultural Park, where centuries of Chinese history unfolded before our eyes.

China is home to 56 ethnic groups, and during our journey, we had the privilege of experiencing the rich traditions of the Miao and Buyi communities. In Huishui District, our welcome was unlike any other—each of us was adorned with a painted hot boiled egg hung gently around our necks, a symbol of good luck and well-being.

What followed was an immersion into their vibrant culture. We joined in rhythmic dances, shared laughter, and feasted on meals lovingly prepared for us. That generous spread reminded me of a timeless saying: When you are more fortunate than others, build a longer table, not a taller fence.

By night, the brightly lit streets led us into buzzing night markets, where sizzling street food and dazzling displays competed for our attention. Bargaining was half the fun, and every “deal” felt like a small victory.

And it wasn’t just the markets that lit up after dark. The elderly filled the streets and parks dancing to music, playing flutes, and around checkerboards for lively games.

These routines weren’t only pastimes; they were daily rituals that kept bodies moving, minds sharp, and communities connected. Watching them reminded us that in Guizhou, life is lived together—whether in a family feast, a crowded market, or a moonlit dance.

Throughout our stay, locals greeted us with cheerful “Ni Hao” and selfie requests, turning us into instant celebrities. Speaking of celebrities, we had the chance to meet Xian Jun, a celebrated news anchor at Guizhou Radio and TV Station. She gave us a glimpse of the new technologies used by Chinese media houses.

We had come to China to learn, but Yuanfen brought us together. China gave us memories that will last a lifetime. As we head home, we carry with us not only the lessons we learned but also the inspiration to tell stories of tradition and innovation, of people and connections, of a China that is both ancient and undeniably modern.