TECO in Auckland hosted its first "Taiwan Alumni" event after the COVID-19 pandemic, bringing together New Zealand youth who have previously studied Mandarin, participated in exchange programs, interned at Taiwanese companies, and engaged in various cultural, indigenous, and sports exchange projects. Several young individuals who are set to go to Taiwan for exchanges at the end of this year also participated in the event.
The event took place on the 24th of August at the Auckland University auditorium, where attendees shared their memorable experiences in Taiwan. They highly praised Taiwan for its excellent learning environment, corporate culture, scenic beauty, and warm hospitality. They unanimously agreed that their trips to Taiwan were enriching experiences worth recommending to more of their New Zealand friends.
Representatives from institutions such as the University of Auckland, Auckland University of Technology, the Asia New Zealand Foundation, and Tupu Toa Māori Trust were in attendance. During the event, participants bonded with each other, exchanged experiences, and discussed the latest information regarding exchange programs in Taiwan, further strengthening the connections between New Zealand and Taiwan.
Ms. Kendra Chen, the Director General of TECO in Auckland, introduced New Zealand as one of the target countries for the New Southbound Policy, emphasizing the close people-to-people exchanges between Taiwan and New Zealand. She stated, "Taiwan has a remarkable advantage in Mandarin learning, and its high-tech and information communication electronics industry is renowned globally. Small and medium-sized enterprises in Taiwan are agile and innovative."
She also mentioned that this year, students from the University of Auckland and Waikato University have already been to Tsinghua University, National Chengchi University, and National Cheng Kung University to study Mandarin. The Asia New Zealand Foundation and Tupu Toa Māori Trust have also selected young people to Taiwan for corporate internships.
In addition to corporate internships, there are ongoing activities such as mutual artist residencies between Taiwan and New Zealand, the Hawaiki Project, and participation in Taiwan's Indigenous Peoples Games. There are also collaborations in film and sports exchanges. She commended the Taiwan alumni as the best bridge for Taiwan-New Zealand friendship and encouraged everyone to continue fostering strong cooperation between the two countries.
Following Director General Chen's introduction, alumni shared their Taiwan experiences in three areas: studying Mandarin, corporate internships, and cultural exchanges.
Matthew, a student at the University of Auckland, praised the richness of the language and culture courses, friendliness of people, and unforgettable Tainan cuisine from the National Cheng Kung University's Mandarin program. Ruby, who participated in the Tsinghua University Intensive Chinese Language Program, spoke highly of Taiwan's open and progressive learning atmosphere, the warmth and kindness of the people, and the captivating natural landscapes.
Tim Marshall, who interned at the Taiwan-U.S. Sister Relations Alliance (TUSA), praised Taiwan's advantage as a business hub in the Asia-Pacific region. Sofara Aiono, the Tupu Toa program manager, shared his experience of corporate internship in Taiwan while also experiencing the closeness of the Māori and Taiwanese indigenous peoples.
Craig Cooper, the Director Arts at the Asia New Zealand Foundation, introduced Taiwan's impressive art and culture and expressed hope for even closer bilateral exchanges.
Official from TECO in Auckland then introduced various scholarships and exchange programs, as well as information about working holidays and the Taiwan Employment Gold Card for youth. Many alumni inquired about the details, showing their interest in deepening their interactions with Taiwan in the future.
During the event, authentic Taiwanese treats such as bubble tea, popcorn chicken, mochi, and green bean cakes were served, bringing joy and nostalgia to alumni.
(texts and photo provided by Taipei Economic & Cultural Office in Auckland)
