Fun-sharing session by South African Tourism unveils the South Africa you never knew

On March 26, South African Tourism joined forces with fashion outdoor brand KOLON SPORT, bone conduction headphone brand AFTERSHOKZ, and American bicycle brand SPECIALIZED in a cross-industry collaboration. The event was held at Beijing’s Dongzhimen 56 Creative Park, treating travel enthusiasts and media friends to a unique journey of exploration in South Africa, taking you to discover the "South Africa you never knew."

Fun and unique experiences, getting up close with the Rainbow Nation

Themed “The South Africa You Never Knew,” the event space was decorated with rich South African elements, inspired by the vibrancy and passion of the Rainbow Nation.

The organizers divided the venue into multiple interactive zones, allowing attendees to gain a well-rounded understanding of South African culture even before the sharing session began.

By following the layout of the South African map, visitors could scan QR codes to explore little-known South African trivia on the Zhihu platform; they could also collect postcards about South African fun facts to send to their future selves from the venue; or even put on AFTERSHOKZ (Shokz) headphones to hear the sounds of insects in the silent South African night sky and wildlife chewing grass in the savannah. A variety of desserts crafted in the shapes of South African animals brought plenty of fun, and the audience also participated in a trivia contest, adding a lively atmosphere to the event. Here, you’re sure to experience the multifaceted culture of South Africa.

Shed old perspectives, experience South Africa with fresh vision

The “South Africa You Never Knew” sharing session invited Ms. Chen Xiaoyan, Marketing and PR Manager of the South African Tourism Office in Beijing, to deliver opening remarks. She shared touching and inspiring real stories from the “Rainbow Nation,” and encouraged attendees to visit South Africa to experience the unique emotions brought by each journey.

The event also invited six experts and influencers from various fields who presented unique perspectives on South Africa through architecture, history, sports, music, and more—allowing the audience to immerse themselves in the colorful culture of South Africa.

Renowned architect Mr. Tong Yong took us through uniquely characteristic South African architecture, demonstrating how art can become a sanctuary for the spirit; travel expert Mr. Jin Xiaoxu, who has traveled to Africa over 30 times, shared his personal insights on interpreting South Africa—a nation where the wild, nature, and luxury blend seamlessly; rugby player Mr. Shan and marathon enthusiast Ms. Yucha, who has run marathons on all seven continents, showcased the excitement and wonder of legendary sporting events in South Africa; Mr. Zhao Fan, China’s first holder of the prestigious WSET Diploma Level 4 qualification in wine and spirits from the UK, introduced South Africa’s distinctive wine culture, offering a taste of its relaxing lifestyle.

Mr. Hu Xiaofei, renowned host of the “Flying Fish Show,” musician, and initiator of the “Picnic” project, made a finale appearance. He took the audience on a journey with a piece of jazz from South Africa, sharing his unique travel experiences from 10 years ago in South Africa, and introducing the wonderful outdoor lifestyle known as “Safari.”

Throughout the entire sharing session, you’ll experience a refreshingly different atmosphere. Engaging speakers, along with prizes from fashion outdoor brand KOLON SPORT, bone conduction headphone brand AFTERSHOKZ, and American bicycle brand SPECIALIZED, repeatedly brought the event to a high-energy climax.

In South Africa, you can not only go on safari in the vast grasslands, chasing wildlife, or dive with great white sharks in the ocean—you’ll also find modern cities, vibrant cultures, and breathtaking natural landscapes waiting to be discovered. Leave behind your old perceptions of South Africa and try to rediscover this Rainbow Nation. The South Africa you never knew has even more surprising facets to unveil.