Alba Pjeshka (L) and Thawab Kchaou. Photos by Shao Jingfeng

As Shenzhen continues to grow into a global hub of technology and culture, international students from various corners of the world are discovering the city’s dynamic environment and unique offerings. 

Recently, two internatinal students from Shenzhen Technology University in Pingshan shared their experiences with Shenzhen Daily during the launch ceremony of the Z10 Club on March 5, reflecting their deep fascination with Shenzhen’s innovations.

Thawab Kchaou, from Austria, arrived only a few weeks ago. She expressed her awe for Pingshan, stating, “It’s a very beautiful and interesting place. I’m seeing things I’ve never seen in my life, like self-driving cars and robotic street cleaners. I’m fascinated by everything.”

An AutoX robotaxi runs in Pingshan District. Photo courtesy of AutoX

She has joined the Z10 Club of international students in Shenzhen, which offers her opportunities to engage in activities that help her learn about the city. “Through social media, I want to share the beauty of Shenzhen and its diversity with the world,” she added. 

She described Shenzhen as a city of the future and expressed her enthusiasm for learning about the local culture and community. “Shenzhen is home to the headquarters of many major global companies, and I want to see the buildings that represent this rapid development,” she stated. “It’s fascinating how this city evolved from almost nothing to what it is today. I want to learn more about its story.”

Alba Pjeshka, hailing from Albania, shared her excitement. “My first impression of the city? I love it! It’s massive and incredibly high-tech,” she said. Living in Pingshan, she is thrilled about the availability of self-driving taxis, which she describes as futuristic. “I want to know more about BYD because I think it is one of the best car companies in the world right now. I also want to learn more about Tencent and Baidu. I want to understand how they operate,” she said.

Various types of sweeping and watering robots demonstrate their street cleaning capabilities at an event in Pingshan on Jan. 8. Photo from Urban Management and Law Enforcement Bureau of Pingshan District

For her, Shenzhen epitomizes a dream come true. “I’ve always dreamed of experiencing such technology, and now it’s here in Shenzhen.” Like Kchaou, Pjeshka emphasizes the importance of the Z10 Club for innovation and inspiration. She aims to share stories about Shenzhen’s technology and its stunning natural landscapes, noting that “it’s a very livable city.”

The Z10 Club, launched by EyeShenzhen, brings together international students from 10 leading higher education institutions in Shenzhen. This initiative aims to connect Gen Z students with the vibrant culture and innovative spirit of one of China’s most dynamic cities. The club’s first cohort has over 60 international students from around 24 countries.