When presented with the theme "Z View the World" in the Z-Generation Huaxing Junior Reporter Global PK Competition, Lin Zekai, a student from the Philippine Cultural College Caloocan Campus, turned his camera toward someone closest to him, his uncle, Mr Lyu Mingen, a young Chinese community leader in the Philippines.

Lin Zekai (right) interviews his uncle Lyu Mingen (left). [Photo provided to gofujian.com]

"Through this interview, I learned the power of perseverance and the meaning of responsibility. It also made me prouder of my Chinese roots," Lin said.

A portrait of Lin's uncle

Lin's family migrated from Quanzhou, Fujian, to the Philippines around 2004. His uncle started from scratch, arriving in a country where he neither spoke the language nor knew anyone. Over the years, he worked his way up and became a successful entrepreneur and an active philanthropist, now widely recognized among the local Chinese community.

"I've always been curious about his story," Lin said. "This competition gave me the perfect opportunity to capture his journey on camera to tell a real and heartfelt Chinese story to the world."

To prepare for the interview, Lin conducted thorough research. He scoured online reports about his uncle, organized his notes, and outlined key questions to ensure that nothing important would be missed.

"When my uncle first arrived in the Philippines, he could hardly speak the local language, not even English. But later, he became the one others turned to for translation and coordination," Lin said with admiration. "From his story, I realized that no matter how difficult things get, as long as you keep trying and never give up, you'll always make progress."

After the interview, Lin wrote down his reflection: "Living overseas, we should not only strive to take root, but also support one another and share warmth."

From interviewer to cultural storyteller

This experience as a "junior reporter" gave Lin a taste of what journalism truly means. "I discovered that interviewing isn't just about asking questions — it's about communication," he said. "Before I start, I like to chat casually so my interviewee knows what to expect. When people feel relaxed and trust you, they're willing to open up and show their real selves."

Since then, he has developed a genuine interest in telling stories through the lens. His fluency in Chinese became a unique advantage, while promoting Chinese culture gradually turned into his passion.

Over the years, he has actively participated in cultural exchange events, winning first prize in the Overseas Chinese Youth 'Learn Chinese, Tell Stories' Contest, second prize in the Creative Essay Competition for Overseas Chinese Students, and the Best Performance Award in Classical Recitation.

"These experiences taught me to think independently and express myself with confidence," Lin said. "I began to understand that cultural communication isn't an empty slogan — it's about showing what you love in your own way and letting others feel that passion."

From hometown to the world

Lin has returned to his ancestral home in Fujian province in southeast China several times, visiting cities such as Fuzhou, Quanzhou, and Zhangzhou. One of his most vivid memories is climbing Tianyou Peak in Wuyi Mountain. "As the wind brushed my face, I suddenly felt the true weight of the word 'hometown,'" he recalled.

He also immersed himself in local traditions, from picking and making tea to tasting the final brew. "I realized that tea is more than just a drink. It carries culture, rituals, and human connection." Back in the cities, he was amazed by China's rapid development. "WeChat Pay and Alipay make life so convenient, you don't even need cash. It's a completely different lifestyle from the Philippines."

Overseas Chinese youth are experiencing tea culture in Wuyi Mountain.  [Photo provided to gofujian.com]

Today, Lin is using his own voice to help others discover China. "I make short videos to teach my Filipino friends how to use chopsticks. I also share my favorite Chinese foods, films, and music," he said. "I think this kind of sharing feels more natural and easier for others to embrace. Promoting culture doesn't have to be about lecturing; sincerity itself can be persuasive."

Looking ahead, Lin hopes to continue telling Chinese stories through the eyes of a young generation with his camera, his words, and his heart.

"As long as we speak with love and authenticity," he said, "Chinese culture will be understood and appreciated by more people around the world."