A multicultural platform to learn from

Cailing Zou (Communication University of China) at Te Pae Convention Centre in Chistchurch

Cailing Zou from Communication University of China, was awarded a travel grant to present her paper in Christchurch: "Cross-Cultural Empathy Communication of Chinese Dress Culture: An Analysis Based on Short Videos Featuring New Chinese Style Clothing" to the International Communication Section.

In the article below, she reflects about the experience:

"My name is Cailing Zou, and I recently earned my Master of Arts degree in June this year from Communication University of China. I had the honor of presenting my paper at the International Communication Session at the IAMCR 2024 conference. My paper, titled "Cross-Cultural Empathy Communication of Chinese Dress Culture: An Analysis Based on Short Videos Featuring New Chinese Style Clothing," explores the cross-cultural dissemination of Chinese traditional dress culture through short video platforms.

I am incredibly grateful to the organizing committee of IAMCR 2024 for providing me with the opportunity to travel to Christchurch, New Zealand. Many thanks to the Travel Grant, which made this journey possible. Special appreciation goes to Professor Elske van de Fliert, the Finance Director, and the entire financial department, whose unwavering support guided me throughout the entire process. Their efforts ensured that we could successfully obtain the grant, giving me the courage to travel halfway around the world to attend the conference in beautiful New Zealand.

This year marks my second participation in IAMCR conferences. Last year, I attended the conference in Lyon, France, which significantly broadened my academic perspective and inspired me to pursue a PhD program in International Communication starting this September. This time in Christchurch, I was delighted to reconnect with old friends and make new ones, making the experience feel almost like a dream.

I hold this opportunity in high regard, particularly in my capacity as a member of the International Communication group. Beyond presenting my own paper, I actively participated in other sessions, gaining insights into the diverse research interests and directions of scholars from different countries. During my session, I was thrilled to receive several questions from international scholars who were interested in my research. Notably, Professor Cornelia Brown from Utica University engaged in a long discussion with me about Chinese traditional dress and culture after the session, further motivating me to delve deeper into my research topic.

I deeply appreciate IAMCR for creating a multicultural platform where people from different nations can come together and exchange ideas. Overall, my experience at IAMCR 2024 was enriching and inspiring, reinforcing my commitment to furthering my studies in international communication. I look forward to continuing my in-depth studies and research, and I eagerly anticipate future opportunities to participate in IAMCR conferences."

Cailing Zou