On April 19th, last Saturday, the Miao Bidai Golden Mountain Bay Area Overseas Chinese Education Center transformed into a place of sustainability and passion. From 11 am to 3 pm that day, the Taiwan Youth Chamber of Commerce in the Bay Area partnered with the Overseas Chinese Education Center to hold the “Clothing Exchange” second-hand market, continuing the theme of “zero carbon emissions and circular economy.”
This event combined a second-hand market, music performances, Taiwanese cuisine, and Easter elements, attracting nearly four hundred residents and overseas Chinese to gather together and share the weekend energy under the spring sunshine.
The event was organized by the Bay Area Youth Chamber of Commerce and co-organized by the Golden Mountain Bay Area Overseas Chinese Education Center with the aim of promoting the “zero carbon emissions and circular economy” concept, allowing items to continue their value in the hands of new owners, and creating a community experience of eating, drinking, and fun.
Chamber of Commerce President Robin Tan delivered the opening speech, thanking the participating vendors and guests, emphasizing that second-hand clothing carries hard work and should continue its value through recycling, embodying a sustainable spirit. He introduced the core team, including Secretary General Jill, Financial Officer Andrew, Stage Manager Nico, and HR Head Vincen, and expressed gratitude to the Overseas Chinese Education Center for providing the stage to showcase the creativity and cohesion of the Bay Area Taiwanese youth. President Tan revealed plans to hold another event next year and to launch a dog adoption and rescue fundraising event in June.
Director Zhuang Yashu of the Overseas Chinese Education Center praised the creativity of the Youth Chamber of Commerce, affirming that the Chamber focuses on serving the community and pointing out that the event aligns with carbon reduction policies by promoting the reuse of items to fulfill the responsibility of protecting the Earth. She mentioned that the event featured Taiwanese cuisines such as Thick Soymilk, Lucky Purple Rice Balls, and Ain’t Common lunch boxes to showcase community cohesion and promote the Lovejoys discount card, offering travel, health check-ups, and discounts at 36 special stores in Northern California to applicants on-site. Speaking to Da Ji Yuan, she added that the event booths were sold out, surpassing expectations, and suggested future integration of book reading clubs with second-hand books expanded to parking lots or parks, with market and food areas divided.
Rex Chou, President of the Taiwanese Chamber of Commerce in the San Francisco Bay Area, who was present at the event and interviewed, stated that the Youth Chamber of Commerce has flourished under the leadership of President Robin Tan. The event showcased creativity by recycling second-hand clothing, coupled with local cuisine, bringing warmth and vitality. He hoped that the Youth Chamber of Commerce continues to innovate and inject more positive influence into the community.
The event officially kicked off at 11:30 am focusing on sharing sustainable concepts. Over twenty booths sold second-hand clothes, books, and handmade items, with the organizers encouraging attendees to bring their own shopping bags to support “zero carbon emissions.” The food area was lively, with Mochiholic showcasing lychee-flavored mochi doughnuts, Olivia’s Tanghulu offering tangy and sweet treats, Thick Soymilk, Duan’s Kitchen milk tea, and Taiwanese BBQ rice dumplings evoking nostalgia. Ms. Chen enjoyed rice balls with her children, saying, “It tastes like home, and my children are very happy!”
Eye-catching booths included Cookie Studios Co. owned by Cheng Wei, showcasing handmade bracelets and phone straps that can be completed in just 5 minutes, while clay works require meticulous attention. Peiyen Liu from Taiwan presented second-hand books and toys, hoping to continue knowledge and happiness. The traditional Chinese medicine consultation and fortune-telling booths were touching, while the Silicon Valley Cupid’s booth provided fun socializing opportunities for singles with constant laughter.
At noon, the Tingting band opened with cheerful melodies, creating a relaxed atmosphere; followed by Lingnan’s performance with her captivating singing voice, attracting audiences to linger. After the midday break, Rita’s band Oito performed original Japanese and Korean-style songs with distinctive personalities. Rita Huang expressed her desire to promote rare Taiwanese musical styles and showcase original charm. Zander’s deep voice and guitar playing of classics added warmth to the event. By 3 pm, participants left with harvests and moved by the sustainable concepts, carrying the idea of sustainability in their hearts.
Vice President of the Wen Ti Hui, Rida Chiang, praised the event for its youthful and innovative approach that aligns with the environmental trend. She enjoyed a variety of delicious foods on-site, made new connections with businesses, and had a great time. Mr. Zhang, a participant, remarked, “The market atmosphere is relaxing, the music is pleasant, and the free medical consultations are thoughtful!” Director Zhuang and President Tan strolled through the market, selecting favorite items and taking pictures with vendors, exuding joy at the scene.
The event successfully attracted hundreds of people, and the organizers plan to launch more sustainable-themed activities. As the spring sunshine spread over the Miao Bidai Overseas Chinese Education Center, the memory of the “Clothing Exchange” market is deeply rooted in people’s hearts, blossoming with the concept of sustainability and love in the Bay Area. ◇