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As world leaders gather in Astana for the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) summit, a fresh voice is stealing the spotlight: Melissa Baidak, a Ukrainian-born Russian PhD student studying in Beijing. In an exclusive chat with CGTN, she shared why Gen Z’s energy and creativity are key to shaping global cooperation.
Baidak, now at Beijing Foreign Studies University, emphasized how youth-driven initiatives in groups like the SCO and BRICS can bridge cultural divides. \"Young people aren’t just the future—we’re building solutions today,\" she said, highlighting projects ranging from tech innovation hubs to cross-border climate action.
Born in Ukraine and raised in Russia, Baidak’s unique perspective fuels her passion for \"dialogue over division.\" She praised China’s role in fostering educational exchanges: \"When students from Kazakhstan to Shanghai collaborate, magic happens.\" Her message? Global challenges need TikTok-fast creativity mixed with ancient Silk Road wisdom.
With #SCO2024 focusing on AI and green tech, Baidak’s call for youth-led digital diplomacy proves one thing: Tomorrow’s peacebuilders are already swiping right on change.
Baidak, now at Beijing Foreign Studies University, emphasized how youth-driven initiatives in groups like the SCO and BRICS can bridge cultural divides. \"Young people aren’t just the future—we’re building solutions today,\" she said, highlighting projects ranging from tech innovation hubs to cross-border climate action.
Born in Ukraine and raised in Russia, Baidak’s unique perspective fuels her passion for \"dialogue over division.\" She praised China’s role in fostering educational exchanges: \"When students from Kazakhstan to Shanghai collaborate, magic happens.\" Her message? Global challenges need TikTok-fast creativity mixed with ancient Silk Road wisdom. 
