Every November, Shanghai becomes a crossroads of the world. The China International Import Expo fills the National Exhibition and Convention Center — shaped like a four-leaf clover — with energy, ideas, and voices from around the globe.

Amid the buzz, it's the people in bright red who quietly set the tone. They move with purpose through entrances, corridors, and booths — answering questions, guiding crowds, and offering calm, confident smiles along the way.

Affectionately known as the "Little Leaves", these volunteers embody the expo's welcoming spirit. This year's CIIE brought together 3,865 "Little Leaves", including 114 long-term management volunteers and 3,668 event-period volunteers.

More than helpers, they are often the first hello — and the lasting memory — that visitors take home.

A Small Window with a Big Heart

At 6 am on Nov 7, Sun Yiyang, a junior at Shanghai Customs College, was already up and preparing for her shift.

For her, appearance and attitude both matter. "My image also represents the image of Chinese youth," she said. "So I make sure to show up at my best every single day."

A few days earlier, Sun helped a South African exhibitor recover a lost suitcase at Pudong International Airport. She gave up her break to comfort the visitor, contact the airport and airline, and even chat about what to see and do in Shanghai.

Thanks to training organized by the Foreign Affairs Office of the Shanghai Municipal People's Government — which covered emergency response and local information — she knew exactly how to handle the situation.

The exhibitor later sent a handwritten note of thanks, praising the "warmth of Chinese service".

Sun smiled as she recalled the story. "It wasn't a big deal," she said. "We just do our best whenever someone needs help."

The First Smile at the Gate

For Tang Kebei, a senior at East China Normal University and a returning "Little Leaf", this year brought new responsibilities.

Her post was at the West Square information booth, one of the busiest entrances to the expo.

"Our service spot is outside the main venue, right by the metro entrance," Tang said. "For many visitors, it's the first stop when they arrive at the expo. That's why we make sure to greet everyone with professionalism and warmth."

She remembered one group of overseas visitors who hadn't made a reservation and couldn't enter immediately. Seeing their disappointment, she stepped in to explain, coordinate, and translate.

"I could feel their anxiety," she said. "I just wanted them to sense how friendly and professional we are."

Growing Together

Across the expo, thousands of "Little Leaves" brought their enthusiasm and sense of purpose to the global stage.

Through their experience at CIIE, they strengthen their teamwork and communication skills while gaining a broader view of the world and their role within it.

The CIIE has become a place where the world meets a vibrant generation of Chinese youth — and where these young people, in turn, discover wider horizons and greater possibilities ahead.

Source: Jiefang Daily