Two Languages, Two Cultural Mindsets: London Bilingual Youth Explore Cultural Identity

Youth-Led Initiative

The event was conceived and hosted by Shirley, a 15-year-old student in the UK who recognised a gap in cultural education for her peers. Having experienced firsthand the challenges of balancing Eastern and Western cultural values, Shirley sought to create a space where young people could better understand their unique bicultural identity.

Academic Insights into Language and Culture

Dr. Jiadong Zhang, Postdoctoral Research Fellow at UCL's Faculty of Arts & Humanities and Doctoral Supervisor at the Centre for Translation Studies, delivered the keynote address. An accomplished scholar recognised as a Dalian Outstanding Young Talent, Dr. Zhang brought deep expertise in cross-cultural linguistic research to the discussion. Dr. Zhang's presentation examined the fundamental differences between Chinese and English expression, exploring how linguistic structures reflect distinct ways of thinking. He demonstrated how Chinese emphasises holistic imagery while English prioritises logical sequencing—differences rooted not in the languages themselves but in divergent worldviews and cognitive frameworks.

Engaging Dialogue

The session sparked animated discussion among the 25 attendees, who shared personal experiences navigating bilingual writing, cultural conflicts, and identity questions. The young participants posed thoughtful questions about code-switching, cultural adaptation, and maintaining authenticity across different social contexts.

Two Keys to Understanding the World

Dr. Zhang concluded with a message that resonated deeply with the audience:” Things are always there, but people look at them and interpret them from different perspectives. The root that causes the differences between the two languages is the different ways of thinking and different world outlooks. Don’t argue, as you are right does NOT necessarily mean others are wrong.

Always remember try to understand the target culture and always have a ready mind to learn those things which are quite different from your own country. You will get some extra benefits by doing this, what that meant was you have two keys to understand the world and you are making yourself becoming wise.”

Many participants expressed that the seminar helped them reframe their bilingual identity—not as a source of confusion, but as a valuable asset that offers richer perspectives on the world.

Empowering the Next Generation

Notably, the entire event—from conception to execution—was led by 15-year-old Shirley. As host, she demonstrated professionalism and poise, skillfully managing the programme flow and astutely guiding discussions to deeper levels.
"Organising this event was itself a cultural practice," Shirley reflected. "The process helped me realise that bilingual, bicultural ability is not just a language skill—it's a comprehensive competency."
Following the seminar, several parents expressed their hope for more cultural education initiatives of this kind. Some young participants also suggested establishing a bilingual youth cultural exchange community to sustain these cross-cultural conversations.