Inspired by a documentary on China’s Belt and Road Initiative, Spanish entrepreneur Pablo Sabio, a graduate from RUC, embarked on an extraordinary journey to China, where he pursued higher education, explored cultural exchanges, and launched a thriving business to foster international connections.
Born in Leganés, a suburb south of Madrid, Sabio first encountered Chinese philosophy at the age of 13 when his teacher gifted him a copy of The Art of War by Sun Tzu. This introduction sparked a lifelong fascination with China’s ancient wisdom and modern progress.
In 2021, a documentary on China’s Belt and Road Initiative further deepened his interest. The film showcased China’s modernization efforts and its role in global cooperation. Intrigued by China’s approach to international relations, Sabio realized that true understanding could only come through firsthand experience. Motivated by this belief, he enrolled at Renmin University of China to pursue a master’s degree in international relations.
Sabio was immediately drawn to the university’s motto, “Seek Truth from Facts.” This principle became his guiding philosophy, shaping both his academic research and applications.
Discovering Wisdom in Everyday Life
Sabio’s passion for Chinese philosophy extended beyond academia. He observed how people prioritized harmony in relationships, often expressing opinions in a respectful and balanced manner. He also noticed stark differences between Chinese and Western family values. While Western cultures emphasize individual independence, Chinese traditions place strong emphasis on familial duty and collective well-being. These observations led him to reflect on the long-term benefits of a community-oriented mindset.
In April 2024, Sabio’s parents visited China to celebrate his birthday. Together, they explored Beijing’s iconic landmarks, including the Forbidden City, the Great Wall, and the Summer Palace. They even took a high-speed train to Tianjin, experiencing firsthand the convenience of China’s integrated regional development.
Promoting Cross-Cultural Exchange
Driven by a desire to foster deeper international connections, Sabio launched Gelatina in 2023—a cultural exchange platform designed to bring together Spanish-speaking students and Chinese locals. What started as casual gatherings quickly evolved into structured events that promote cross-cultural dialogue and friendship.
To grow the community, Sabio actively designed promotional materials and leveraged social media to attract participants. Today, Gelatina includes members from 15 Spanish-speaking countries, including Spain, Argentina, Chile, Ecuador, Peru, and Nicaragua. Many attendees praise the initiative for creating an inclusive and globally-minded space in Beijing.
“Face-to-face interactions are the key to building cross-cultural understanding,” Sabio explained. “Participants don’t just learn languages or cultural traditions—they gain a deeper appreciation for different worldviews and values.”
Expanding a Vision for the Future
In August 2024, Sabio was invited to the HICOOL Global Entrepreneurs Summit, an event often referred to as the “Carnival for Global Entrepreneurs.” He shared Gelatina’s success story and its impact on fostering deeper integration between international students and local communities.
Reflecting on his journey, Sabio expressed confidence in Beijing’s potential as a global hub for cultural exchange. “Many foreign students feel isolated when they first arrive in China due to language and cultural barriers. Through Gelatina, they find a sense of belonging, develop friendships, and understand China’s society on a deeper level.”
Looking ahead, Sabio hopes to expand Gelatina beyond Beijing, bringing its events to other cities and organizing more intercultural lectures and discussions. His vision is to help more international students integrate into Chinese society and strengthen China’s role as a global center for dialogue and collaboration.
With a firm belief in China’s growing influence and its ability to inspire cross-cultural interactions, Sabio continues to champion the values of understanding, exchange, and shared progress in an increasingly interconnected world.
