Local visits World Expo in Dubai

Gallery

MOSSEL BAY NEWS - Mossel Bay resident June McGahey attended the World Expo in Dubai in March. Linda Sparg interviewed her about the life-changing experience.

How did you come to be in Dubai for the expo?

I was visiting my daughter, who lives in Dubai. She worked during the week, so I took the opportunity to go to the World Expo 2020. Owing to Covid, it did not open until 1 October 2021 and it closed on 31 March 2022.

There were 20 million visitors to the expo.

Tell us about this massive exhibition.

More than 192 countries [including South Africa] participated and this encouraged them to think outside of the box - generate original ideas and technology - on the three themes of Sustainability, Mobility and Opportunity, under the banner of "Connecting Minds and Creating the Future".

What was the main take-home message for you?

It was hope for our planet. Many pavilions had the globe of the Earth in their presentations and one had the sense that collectively we can do much, but at the same time, as an individual - child or adult - we each have a choice to contribute to taking responsibility for our Earth.

Why did you focus on Japan?

I love the Japanese presentation of beauty, be it in gardens or in the food, such as sushi. I have visited Japan and found in that culture people are full of grace and respect for one another.

Would you go to the expo again if you could?

I certainly would. Senior adults were given bright orange lanyards and given priority in queues and 30% discount on meals and refreshments. There is so much for children too - interactive learning opportunities and fun areas. The World Expo is held every five years; the next one will be in Japan in 2025.

PHOTO GALLERY: World Expo in Dubai attended by local

England pavilion.