For Priyasha Sharma, a 28-year-old professional who has lived in Shenzhen for the past 12 years, 2023 holds particular significance as her native India hosts the 18th BRICS Summit in September, while Shenzhen prepares to welcome leaders for the 33rd APEC Economic Leaders’ Meeting in November.

Sharma first arrived in Shenzhen in 2014, diverging from the more typical path taken by many young Indians who seek educational opportunities in Western countries. Encouraged by her father, who had extensive business experience in China, she recognized Shenzhen’s emerging status as a technology and innovation hub in Asia. This belief motivated her to pursue higher education at Shenzhen University, where she earned a master’s degree before launching her career locally.

Currently serving as the business development director at a supply chain company specializing in electronic components, Sharma reflects on her journey within the firm, noting that she was its first foreign employee. Over time, she has expanded the company’s international reach by building a diverse team with members from various countries.

Sharma’s experiences have also allowed her to observe the evolution of Shenzhen’s professional landscape for foreign nationals. Initially, international entrepreneurs in the city predominantly engaged in trade and sourcing, often focused on exporting Chinese goods. Direct employment by local Chinese companies was less common. However, around 2019 and 2020, the city saw a rise in service centers aimed at supporting international residents—an initiative Sharma has been actively involved in, providing guidance based on her own challenges as an international student navigating job searches and cultural adaptation.

Beyond practical support, Sharma identified a broader issue concerning Shenzhen’s perception internationally and even within China. She noted that many still viewed the city primarily as a satellite of Hong Kong rather than recognizing its distinct identity. This realization prompted her to engage more deeply in cross-cultural activities, including programs organized by the Shanghai Cooperation Organization, youth exchanges with ASEAN countries, and partnerships related to the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area.

This year, Sharma’s role became more prominent during APEC-related events, representing Shenzhen’s Yantian district and introducing the city to international visitors. She emphasized that her participation has shifted from learning about Shenzhen to actively sharing the insights she has gained over more than a decade.

Sharma also observes a growing interest in Shenzhen as a destination for technology-focused tourism, with more young overseas visitors exploring its manufacturing ecosystem and supply chains, including some from established innovation centers such as San Francisco.

Her connection to the city extends beyond professional and cultural engagement. Sharma has participated in community service and charity work, including initiatives supporting children with autism, experiences she says have deepened her sense of belonging.

Reflecting on her time in Shenzhen, Sharma describes a transformation from feeling like an outsider to considering the city home. “I came to Shenzhen to study. I stayed to build a life. And somewhere along the way, Shenzhen became home,” she said, underscoring the personal and professional ties that have developed over the years.