International Students Meet the Russian President at the World Youth Festival 2024

More than 20,000 young leaders in education, science, international cooperation, culture and sports took part in the World Youth Festival in Sochi, with more than half being international participants. The Baltic Federal University had one of the largest delegations. IKBFU international students share their impressions of the festival.

Ma Yanlong, 5th year student from China:
For me, the WYF was an extraordinary and unforgettable experience for me. Not only did it broaden my horizons, but also gave me a valuable opportunity to socialise and collaborate with people from all over the world. Whether it was the opening ceremony, in-depth panel discussions or an exciting cultural evening, every detail emphasised the professionalism and commitment of the organisers. I want to once more thank Russia for providing such an excellent platform for young people. I look forward to more opportunities like this in the future.

Ma Yanlong, 5th year student from China:

For me, the WYF was an extraordinary and unforgettable experience for me. Not only did it broaden my horizons, but also gave me a valuable opportunity to socialise and collaborate with people from all over the world. Whether it was the opening ceremony, in-depth panel discussions or an exciting cultural evening, every detail emphasised the professionalism and commitment of the organisers.

I want to once more thank Russia for providing such an excellent platform for young people. I look forward to more opportunities like this in the future.

Angelina Rolsing, 4th year student from Germany:
I had the honour of attending the World Youth Festival in Sochi. I was a part of the German delegation. The scope of the event really impressed me; everything was organised perfectly. The accommodations and catering were also excellent. My only regret was the fact that I didn’t always get the chance to interact with the speakers at certain events. Ten days passed in the atmosphere of a holiday celebration. I made new friends, exchanged gifts and souvenirs. Many Germans followed my journey and asked me to keep covering the festival and continue showing photos and videos. Many people wish for the relationship between Russia and Germany to improve. I believe that I was able to contribute, which was my main goal. I would love to attend such a festival or a similar event again and show how kind and generous Russia is.

Angelina Rolsing, 4th year student from Germany:

I had the honour of attending the World Youth Festival in Sochi. I was a part of the German delegation. The scope of the event really impressed me; everything was organised perfectly. The accommodations and catering were also excellent. My only regret was the fact that I didn’t always get the chance to interact with the speakers at certain events. Ten days passed in the atmosphere of a holiday celebration. I made new friends, exchanged gifts and souvenirs. Many Germans followed my journey and asked me to keep covering the festival and continue showing photos and videos. Many people wish for the relationship between Russia and Germany to improve. I believe that I was able to contribute, which was my main goal. I would love to attend such a festival or a similar event again and show how kind and generous Russia is.

Victor Rolsing, 3rd year student from Germany:
This was the best festival of my life. I was able to both represent my country and make new friends, who I will cherish forever. I would like to describe the festival in every detail, but it was so exciting that I still can't find the right words. A huge thank you to the organisers of this festival and also to Russia. It was an honour to be there.

IKBFU students also met the President of Russia, Vladimir Putin.

Marina Tsvetanova Petrova, 3rd year student from Bulgaria:
This was the biggest event I have ever participated in! I made lots of memories and friends! I am grateful for the opportunity to meet so many people from different countries. I loved the music performances. It was clear that the organisers worked very hard to prepare such a great show.

Nikita Kalugins, 4th year student from Latvia:
It was amazing. The scale of the event and the organisation was astonishing. For such a short period of time I met an unimaginable number of interesting people: government leaders, representatives of corporations and industry, foreign specialists and students. I had the opportunity to participate in discussions on all possible topics, which still affects me. These meetings were inspiring and gave me a lot of ideas for my studies, career and what I can bring back to my university. I found new friends with whom I kept in touch. The World Youth Festival 2024 will certainly remain one of the most vivid memories of my life.

Nikita Kalugins, 4th year student from Latvia:

It was amazing. The scale of the event and the organisation was astonishing. For such a short period of time I met an unimaginable number of interesting people: government leaders, representatives of corporations and industry, foreign specialists and students. I had the opportunity to participate in discussions on all possible topics, which still affects me. These meetings were inspiring and gave me a lot of ideas for my studies, career and what I can bring back to my university. I found new friends with whom I kept in touch. The World Youth Festival 2024 will certainly remain one of the most vivid memories of my life.

Arvinzayaa Amarsaikhan, 3rd year student from Mongolia:
I was with other international students from different Russian universities. Everyone was very warm and friendly. On the first day we took a stroll along the embankment, then had a tour of the Olympic Park and were given festival merchandise. On the last day we went to the Ice Palace, where we met the President of Russia and watched the closing ceremony of the festival. I still can't believe I saw Vladimir Putin. I would like to express special thanks to the organisers, who were always available and quickly answered our questions.

Arvinzayaa Amarsaikhan, 3rd year student from Mongolia:

I was with other international students from different Russian universities. Everyone was very warm and friendly. On the first day we took a stroll along the embankment, then had a tour of the Olympic Park and were given festival merchandise. On the last day we went to the Ice Palace, where we met the President of Russia and watched the closing ceremony of the festival. I still can't believe I saw Vladimir Putin. I would like to express special thanks to the organisers, who were always available and quickly answered our questions.