Shenzhen is best known as the miracle city as it sprang up so rapidly over a handful of years from 1979 and early 1980s, to link the trade, tourism and cultural exchanges between Hong Kong and the Chinese mainland.

But the city has since taken an active role to define itself as a frontrunner of both economic and political reforms in China after the successful return of Hong Kong in 1997.

Less than 150 km away from Guangzhou, Shenzhen is drastically different from its neighbor in terms of culture. As a melting pot of diverse cultural elements introduced by immigrants from all parts of China, Shenzhen is a city with a kaleidoscopic cultural blend.

Flexible policies and favorable offers create more chances for young talents nationwide, and young Chinese arrived at Shenzhen in search of their own "Shenzhen Dream". Many are looking forward to repeat the success of Ma Huateng, a student-turned Internet boss worth $6 billion, or to raise public awareness of political rights like Zou Tao, running his own campaign to become a local legislator.

This is underlined by the fact that the 28-year-old city has the youngest population in the nation, with the average age about 28. About 65 percent of the residents are between the age 20 and 39.

Shenzhen will stage the 2011 Universidad for university athletes around the world.

(China Daily 05/08/2008 page12)