Luca Baroli: I love Huaqiangbei, I love Futian's 'red vest'

For Luca Baroli, who works for the China (Shenzhen) International Personnel Training Center, Futian District has become his second hometown.

Luca Baroli (1st L) serves as a volunteer in Huaqiangbei, Futian District. Photos from Dute News

Since 2022, Baroli has served as an international volunteer in the Huaqiangbei Subdistrict. Through teaching and volunteer work, he is committed to sharing the unique charm of Chinese culture with a broader audience, promoting cross-cultural dialogue and exchange.

Impressed by Shenzhen’s high-tech development

As an Italian, Baroli has had a strong interest in Chinese culture since childhood and always wanted to visit the country in person.

In 2012, He visited China for the first time and was deeply immersed in the culture. This experience motivated him to start learning Chinese and pay closer attention to China.

"Later, a friend told me about a city called Shenzhen, saying, ‘Shenzhen's high-tech industry is incredibly advanced.' Through my friend's description, my first impression of Shenzhen was that of a highly technologically developed city. My friend also mentioned that Shenzhen is very eager to attract talent from all over the world. The city's open policies not only provide foreigners with abundant development opportunities but also create a convenient, comfortable living environment with thoughtful services. It was for these reasons that in 2016, I chose to come and work in Shenzhen," said Baroli in an interview with Shenzhen Special Zone Daily.

Shenzhen, a city that dares to dream and try

After arriving in Shenzhen, Baroli became a foreign language teacher at the China (Shenzhen) International Talent Training Center and quickly integrated into the city.

"There is a street called Huaqiangbei, one of Shenzhen's most bustling commercial areas and also one of China's largest electronics markets. I often visit Huaqiangbei, which fully reflects Shenzhen's international character. Whether I'm asking for directions or exploring, there are always volunteers helping me with translation or guiding me through processes, making me as a foreigner feel truly welcomed," said Baroli.

Huaqiang Electronics World in Huaqiangbei. 

In 2022, Baroli finally put on the "red vest" and began volunteering in Huaqiangbei.

"I was thrilled and excited, and I have been volunteering there almost every week, mainly helping international friends with directions and translation. This work is incredibly meaningful because I can introduce Huaqiangbei to more international visitors, help them find products they love, and facilitate successful orders. At my busiest, I've assisted over ten foreign merchants in closing deals in a single day," said Baroli.

'Bring an empty suitcase to Huaqiangbei'

"My first visit there was a real eye-opener. The scale is immense, filled with cutting-edge tech products. At Huaqiangbei, you can not only put together a full set of electronic gadgets but also discover all kinds of incredibly innovative products," said Baroli.

"Many foreigners visiting for the first time aren't sure how to quickly find what they need. When asking about products or prices, language barriers often make communication difficult. As a foreigner myself, I use my language skills to help bridge that gap and facilitate successful transactions — it’s incredibly rewarding," Baroli added.

"I remember one foreign customer who wanted to buy a high-quality drone but wasn’t familiar with the brands. He had looked at four or five options but still couldn’t decide and was growing anxious — and so was the seller. Both sides were stuck because of the language barrier. That’s when I stepped in. I communicated the customer’s needs to the seller and, after several rounds of discussion, helped recommend the most suitable drone. Seeing the smiles on both the customer’s and the seller’s faces made me feel that volunteering is truly valuable. Now, every time I return to Italy, my suitcase is completely full," he said. 

"Bring an empty suitcase to Huaqiangbei" has become a trending topic on overseas social platforms, according to Baroli.

China's visa-free and tax refund policies spark global shopping boom

"Over my three years as a volunteer, I’ve gained a deeper understanding of Huaqiangbei and become more knowledgeable about the variety and uses of high-tech products. With the introduction of convenient policies like visa-free transit policy and shop tax refund upon purchase,a 'China shopping fever' has swept the world. More and more international buyers are flocking to Huaqiangbei, making volunteer work increasingly busy," said Baroli.

Baroli noted that helping more people has brought him even greater joy, just as the saying goes, "When you give a rose to others, fragrance remains in your hands."

"In my eyes, Huaqiangbei has two distinct sides. Side A is innovation: products are updated at an impressive pace, reflecting Shenzhen speed. Side B reflects a people-oriented approach to technology. Products here are designed and manufactured to meet customers' real needs. Today, cutting-edge tech like drones, tablets, and smart AI glasses are among the most sought-after items. These innovative products end up in the hands of people from different countries, making their lives more convenient and better," said Baroli.

Foreigners never feel like outsiders in Futian

"With its delicious food, rich culture, and cutting-edge technology, Futian is my ideal place to live. Huaqiangbei is the spot I know best here. By taking part in volunteer work, I’ve been able to contribute in my own small way to Futian’s development, while also deepening my understanding and sense of connection to Shenzhen — together, we’re building what truly feels like our home," said Baroli.

Baroli said he will recommend Lianhua Hill Park for friends to understand the Shenzhen spirit and suggest Shenzhen Museum for them to learn what makes Shenzhen become Shenzhen. He would also tell them to visit Huaqiangbei to experience the city’s tech vibe firsthand.

"In recent years, Futian has also been developing its coffee culture. More and more cafés are opening, and coffee festivals are being held. The coffee atmosphere here is different from Italy. In Italy, people often drink their coffee quickly, standing up. But in Futian, you’ll see friends chatting over coffee, people reading books, others discussing projects — the mood is relaxed, and the pace is slow," said Baroli.

Baroli said that Futian is his place of luck and opportunity. Its openness, innovative drive, inclusive attitude, and diverse character have inspired him to join the ranks of those striving to make a difference here. "Futian’s future is full of promise and I believe the most remarkable Futian stories are still being written by us together," said Baroli.