On March 30-31, a delegation of 20 participants – including students, mentors, and volunteers from the AFS Youth Empowerment Project (YEP), along with 2025-26 overseas exchange students – embarked on an insightful field trip to Foshan centered on the theme of “Sustainable Development.”
The journey began at Lingnan Tiandi, where the team explored ancient architectural clusters and savored local delicacies. It was a perfect introduction to Foshan’s deep historical roots and the unique charm of Lingnan culture.
The team then visited the DETERMINANT concept store in Lingnan Tiandi. Students explored how the brand seamlessly integrates sustainability into its design and manufacturing processes, proving that fashion and environmental protection can go hand-in-hand.
During the industrial visit, the group toured the “Specialty Spinning Exhibition Hall” and the “Technical Center of Excellence”. They witnessed firsthand how digital technology empowers traditional industries. A major highlight was the “Exponent Envirotech”, where students learned how innovative technology can save water and achieve zero wastewater discharge right from the start of the production cycle. Through professional guided tours, they gained a deeper understanding of how creative design combined with digitalization – driven by the 4R Principle (Reduce, Reuse, Recycle, Replace) – can lead the green transformation of the traditional accessories industry.
Acknowledgments
The Youth Empowerment Project (YEP) is funded by the Drs. Richard Charles and Esther Yewpick Lee Charitable Foundation. This project aims to nurture socially responsible and proactive global citizens through practical experience and hands-on learning, creating a lasting impact on students’ personal growth.
We express our deepest gratitude to the Y.L. Yang Foundation for their generous support and meticulous arrangements. This trip provided an invaluable opportunity for YEP and overseas exchange students to broaden their horizons, while sparking boundless imagination regarding the integration of “Green Living” and “Innovative Technology.”