Beijing International Studies University (BISU) volunteers provided translation services at the 2025 Beijing Culture Forum from Sept 23 to 24. The forum was co-organized by the Publicity Department of the CPC Central Committee, the CPC Beijing Municipal Committee, and the Beijing municipal government.

As a university with rich experience in serving diplomatic activities in the capital, BISU selected 74 multilingual students to provide translation services for around 800 Chinese and international guests from 70 countries. The volunteers worked nearly 600 shifts, for over 4,300 hours.

With their professionalism and warm smiles, the volunteers strengthened the forum's support system, demonstrating the sense of responsibility of BISU youth.

BISU volunteers pose for a group photo at the Beijing Culture Forum.

BISU began recruiting volunteers during summer vacation, forming a team covering 14 languages, including English, French and Spanish. On Sept 14, the volunteers underwent a mobilization and training session at BISU, organized by the Dongcheng District Committee of the Communist Youth League, learning about the related policies and diplomatic etiquette.

The volunteers conducted on-site inspections to familiarize themselves with the venue layout on Sept 16 and 22.

During the forum, they acted as interpreters, efficiently performing their duties in reception guidance and information consultation. They helped bridge communication gaps: assisting foreign guests with route planning, supporting cultural institutions in coordinating materials, and explaining both the forum agenda and highlights of local culture.

Dong Xiaoran from the School of Asian Studies, while hosting guests from Russia, Egypt, and South Korea, not only provided precise guidance but also shared stories of Beijing's history and development, earning praise from an Egyptian guest, who said, "I saw an open and warm China." An Italian guest also commended the volunteers for their professionalism and enthusiasm.

Zhao Xirou, from the School of English Language, Literature and Culture, said the experience not only tested her professional competence but also deepened her understanding of cultural inheritance and innovation.

Huang Siyi, from the School of Country and Region Studies, used cross-cultural communication skills to assist non-native English-speaking guests. She said that the experience helped her to realize that language is a bridge for civilization and a bond of respect.  

A BISU volunteer (2nd, R) poses for a photo with foreign guests at Beijing Culture Forum.

The volunteers, with their spirit of "dedication, friendship, mutual assistance, and progress" and solid professional competence, received high praise from the organizers and widespread acclaim from the visitors.