More than 100 Coral Coast students experienced the richness of Chinese arts and traditions through a cultural exchange programme hosted by Shangri-La Yanuca Island, Fiji, highlighting the resort’s long-standing investment in education and community development.
Students from Nadroumai Primary School and Cuvu District School participated in the programme, delivered in partnership with the Confucius Institute at the University of the South Pacific (USP) as part of Shangri-La’s global Arts & Culture Month. Through hands-on workshops, students explored traditional Chinese calligraphy, paper cutting and other cultural practices, fostering creativity, curiosity and a deeper appreciation of one of the world’s oldest civilizations.
The event reflects Shangri-La’s founding vision of Bringing Asia to the World while supporting the Group’s Environment, Sustainability and Governance (ESG) strategy through its SHINE pillar, which focuses on creating opportunities for people and strengthening communities through education, cultural exchange and meaningful partnerships.
Resident Manager Sunil Beerbul said investing in young people is one of the most meaningful ways the resort can contribute to the future of the communities it serves.
At Shangri-La Yanuca Island, Fiji, we believe hospitality is about creating opportunities that extend beyond our resort. By partnering with local schools and organisations, we hope to inspire young people to explore new ideas, embrace different cultures and realise their potential.”
He said cultural exchange helps build understanding while celebrating diversity.
“Arts and culture have the power to connect people across backgrounds and generations. Through our partnership with the Confucius Institute at USP, we are proud to introduce students to Chinese traditions while encouraging curiosity, respect and appreciation for the diversity that enriches our world.”
Building on its long-standing commitment to the Coral Coast, Shangri-La Yanuca Island, Fiji has collaborated with over 10 schools and organizations to deliver education, youth development and environmental programmes that create lasting impact. Over the past five years, the resort has engaged more than 500 through classroom learning, cultural exchanges, environmental education, marine conservation experiences and hospitality career development initiatives.
A facilitator from the Confucius Institute at the University of the South Pacific demonstrates traditional Chinese calligraphy to students participating in the cultural exchange programme.
By introducing students and community members to Asian traditions beyond their own, the event fostered curiosity, creativity and cross-cultural understanding while building meaningful connections through shared learning and cultural appreciation.
Students participate in a traditional Baduanjin during Shangri-La Yanuca Island, Fiji’s cultural exchange programme, promoting learning through arts, culture and shared experiences.
