Volunteers Exemplify Global Unity at the Paris 2024 Olympics
In the remarkable backdrop of the Paris 2024 Olympics, the contributions of dedicated volunteers have come to light, showcasing the essence of global unity and cultural exchange. Among these volunteers, Zheng Jiaxin, a 29-year-old Chinese expatriate, and Liu Xinyi, a 25-year-old master’s degree student at Sciences Po Paris, exemplify the profound impact and personal significance of their engagements during this prestigious event.
With a staggering total of 45,000 volunteers participating in the Games, Zheng took a bold step by dedicating two weeks of her annual leave from her work at the Postal Bank in France to volunteer. Having settled in Paris for seven years, where she pursued studies in big data and finance after relocating from China, Zheng viewed her participation as a remarkable opportunity to repay the city’s warm embrace. “Volunteering for the Paris Olympics was a way for me to give back to the city that has welcomed me with open arms,” she stated, emphasizing the occasion’s significance coinciding with the 60th anniversary of diplomatic relations between China and France.
Zheng’s vital role involved managing the influx of spectators and facilitating an enjoyable experience for all attendees. Despite sacrificing part of her vacation, her commitment was unwavering. “Even though I sacrificed 10 days of my vacation time, it was worth every moment. I wanted to repay the kindness I received when I first arrived in Paris. It felt like a way to contribute to a major event in the city I now call my second home,” she expressed. For her, the Olympics symbolized more than competition; they represented global unity and the sharing of cultures.
Echoing these sentiments, Liu Xinyi reflected on her own journey, inspired by the 2008 Beijing Olympics she experienced as a child. “Growing up in Beijing, the 2008 Olympics left a deep impression on me. I remember the openness and inclusiveness of Beijing during that time, so I cherish this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to contribute in Paris,” she remarked. As a volunteer at the Paris Media Center, Liu’s responsibilities consisted of aiding journalists from across the globe, ensuring their seamless coverage of the games.
Her tasks, which included greeting media representatives and coordinating events, were not without challenges. “Waking up at 6 am every day was tough,” Liu admitted. Nevertheless, the experiences she gained, including interactions with renowned individuals like French historian Patrick Boucheron, rendered her efforts invaluable. “The most important lesson I learned was the significance of curiosity, respect, and enthusiasm for other cultures, which greatly assisted us in providing tailored services to international journalists,” she noted.
As the city transitions to the Paralympics, the stories of Zheng and Liu illustrate the tremendous influence of volunteers in the Paris 2024 Games. Their efforts are emblematic of the broader spirit of international cooperation and mutual respect that the Olympics endeavor to advocate. Both volunteers remain steadfast in their commitment to fostering global understanding, with the memories of their volunteer work serving as a cherished chapter in their lives in Paris.
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