The Africa They Are Experiencing: How Self-Media Shapes Chinese Perceptions of Africa Through Daily Life Representation

Paper Abstract: As China’s engagement with Africa grows through trade, investment, and diplomatic relations, the Chinese public's interest in the continent has similarly increased. Traditionally, state media and official discourse have shaped perceptions of Africa within China. However, with the advent of social media, a new generation of Chinese individuals is presenting their perspectives of Africa, often focusing on the day-to-day experiences of African life. These personal narratives, shared through vlogs, blogs, short videos, and images, contribute to shaping a broader, more nuanced understanding of Africa among Chinese audiences.



This proposal examines how Chinese perceptions of Africa are being shaped through narratives of African daily life introduced by self-media such as Jianfengsuda (尖峰苏打), Mr. Hello’ Life (hello先生的生活), and other self-media influencers, content creators, and social media users living in or traveling through Africa. These new media agents, often non-traditional journalists, present a diverse and complex Africa, beyond the typical stereotypes of poverty, conflict, and wildlife.



This study will analyze how these representations affect public perception, social understanding, and cultural exchange between China and Africa. By analyzing how these digital narratives introduce daily African life to Chinese audiences, this paper aims to contribute to broader discussions on media, perception, and international relations in the context of China-Africa relations.