At the conclusion of the 6th World Youth Diplomatic Envoy Competition (IFEC) in 2024, exciting news came from the Prep School! The MCC Republic team won the Silver Award for their “Yi Embroidery Going Global Project” and were also honoured to receive the “Intangible Cultural Heritage Inheritance Pioneer Award”, standing out and shining brightly in this highly competitive international event.
The journey began in September when Prep 5 and 6 pupils enthusiastically started the “Yi Embroidery Going Global” project. Team members included Jasmine Z, Apple S, Joy Q, Miko C, Queena L, and James R, guided by teachers Kathy Yang, Candy Jiang, and Cherry Chen. They advanced from the preliminary round to the semi-final on October 22nd, then to the final on December 6th, and reached the peak showdown on December 21st.
From research and planning to promotion, the pupils demonstrated their “Search Intelligence”, by collecting and understanding knowledge about Yi embroidery. They also held an online meeting with Ms Fan Zhiyong, the curator of Yi Embroidery Intangible Cultural Heritage, to explore the historical and cultural background of Yi embroidery, its famous patterns and their meanings, as well as its modern inheritance and development.
Throughout the project, pupils displayed impressive creativity and interdisciplinary skills. In Visual Arts class, they hand-painted exquisite Yi embroidery patterns and used AI technology for digital posters, blending traditional and modern tools. In the experimental production phase, the ICT class was their creative inspiration. Here, they applied 3D printing to bring Yi embroidery patterns and samples to life.
Pupils moved freely between English, Visual Arts and ICT, presenting Yi embroidery through a video, and sparking a “Yi Embroidery Craze” both at school and beyond. Activities such as research analysis, English lectures, online classes, and the sale of cultural products helped to incorporate Yi embroidery in modern items like customised T-shirts, phone holders, and canvas bags, harmoniously integrating tradition and modernity.
It is particularly worth noting that the Yi Embroidery charity sale on Pink Dayreceived enthusiastic support from parents and students alike, ultimately raising 1,794 RMB. These funds will be donated to charity, spreading warmth, love and support from all the parents and pupils involved.
