SHENZHEN, Nov. 15 (Xinhua) -- Nora Elena Carstens, whose Chinese name is Bai Xiaoyu, is from Mexico City, Mexico. In 2004, driven by her love of Chinese culture and music, Nora came to China to pursue a master's degree. She later started a family in China and settled in Shekou, Shenzhen.
Shenzhen was one of China's first special economic zones. The city has emerged as a magnet for people from around the globe to live and work.
The residential compound where Nora and her family live is home to local residents and some 300 foreigners. Language barriers, cultural differences, and unfamiliarity with local policies and regulations are among the practical challenges many foreign residents face daily.
Nora has been involved in various volunteer activities since childhood. She joined an international volunteer service team in Shenzhen, putting her ability to speak six languages to good use by helping foreign residents better understand Chinese culture and familiarize themselves with local rules and regulations.
In June 2026, Nora became the first foreigner to serve as a residential building manager in Shekou Subdistrict. The role involves a wide range of routine yet often demanding tasks. She serves both as an interpreter of local policies and as a mediator among neighbors. Working closely with other community workers, Nora regularly helps her foreign neighbors understand regulations on residential registration, pet ownership and management, and other aspects of daily life.
In Nora's view, Mexican and Chinese cultures share many common values: both show respect for elders, place great importance on family, and cherish their own cultural heritage. Having lived in Shenzhen for nearly a decade, Nora now regards the city as her second hometown.
Coordinators: Wang Qingqin, Meng Chenguang, Chu Jiayin, Tang Rufeng
Reporters: Mao Siqian, Wu Lu■
