China: A Journey of Learning, Innovation, and Cultural Discovery

From July 21–27, 2025, I had the honour of attending the Seminar on Policy-based Finance and Sustainable Development of MSMEs for Belt and Road Countries in Shanghai, China.

Sponsored by the Ministry of Commerce of the Republic of China and organized by the Shanghai National Accounting Institute, the seminar brought together professionals from across the Belt and Road region to explore sustainable MSME development, policy-based finance, and international collaboration.

In addition to the powerful learning sessions, we experienced several unforgettable field studies and cultural excursions:
🏛️ Shanghai Museum & Nanjing Road – A walk through China’s rich history and vibrant retail culture
📈 Shanghai Stock Exchange – Valuable insights into China’s financial systems
🧪 Yangtze River Delta G60 Science & Innovation Corridor – Innovation and R&D at its finest
🏭 High-tech MSMEs in Suzhou – Real-world examples of technology-driven small business success
🌆 The Bund, Yu Garden & local markets – A beautiful fusion of tradition, architecture, and culture.

A heartfelt thank you to Johannesburg Chamber of Commerce and Industry (JCCI) and China Aid for making this opportunity possible. It was a truly memorable experience that has enriched my perspective and inspired my future journey.

Here’s to building bridges across borders and empowering MSMEs globally! 🌍