Department for Youth, Taipei City Government(青年局英文網)

In anticipation of International Youth Day on August 12, the Department for Youth of Taipei City Government hosted a unique warm-up event today (9th) titled “Youth Street Power: Art in Fun.” The event featured live performances by the renowned street dance academy “Central Kids” and graffiti artist “ASERK.” Representatives from 16 countries, including the Embassy of Saint Lucia, the Belgian Office in Taipei, the Australian Office, the American Institute in Taiwan, and the Korean Mission in Taipei, joined the event alongside Taipei City Government officials, including Commissioner Chen of the Department of Economic Development and Commissioner Tsai f the Department of Cultural Affairs, who were present to explore the vibrant street culture.

In his remarks, Commissioner Yin of the Department for Youth expressed his gratitude to the Digital Diplomacy Association and the Taipei City Sports Federation Street Dance Association for their strong support. He emphasized that this event is not only a showcase of talent but also a grand celebration of international friendship and exchange. The Department for Youth specifically invited representatives and youths from various countries to participate, demonstrating the close connection between Taipei’s youth and the international community. Commissioner Yin highlighted that the Department for Youth has established an Global Engagement Division, dedicated to promoting youth international exchanges and providing opportunities for young people to participate in international events such as overseas exhibitions, competitions, and conferences. The Department is committed to expanding international youth exchanges and collaborations, encouraging and supporting young people in Taipei to realize their dreams on the global stage. The Commissioner Yin  stressed that the Department will continue to build stable partnerships with countries worldwide, creating a comprehensive platform for youth cooperation.

With breakdancing making its debut at the 2024 Paris Olympic Games, the event featured Olympic-level breakdancing performances to rally support for Taiwan’s representative, Quake, wishing him success in the international competition. Commissioner Yin stated that supporting youth participation in breakdancing is not only about boosting Quake’s efforts but also about promoting street culture, encouraging young people to explore themselves, and face future challenges. He emphasized that the Department for Youth’s mission is to accompany young people as they develop and discover themselves while connecting with the world, showcasing the international competitiveness of Taipei’s youth.

Renowned Taiwanese graffiti artist ASERK also conducted a short talk on graffiti art and created a live artwork in the lobby of the Department for Youth. His work, heavily influenced by 1980s American graffiti culture, skillfully transforms Chinese characters and English letters into diverse visual effects. The theme of his creation, “Fear not” and “Know Thyself,” aims to inspire youth to face the world’s challenges courageously and to know themselves. Commissioner Yin noted that “Know Thyself” is a core philosophy of the Department for Youth, as it seeks to guide youth in exploring their career and life plans. He hopes that through more international exchange activities, the Department can stimulate the creativity of young people and lead them to a broader global stage.