Global Friendship: Creating Community Beyond Borders in Guangzhou
Creating meaningful connections across cultures, one friendship at a time
Community Overview
Community Name: Global Friendship
Location: Guangzhou, China
Founded: August 2014
Size: Over 20,000 followers across social media platforms
Focus: To Build Meaningful Connections Together
Target Members: Both locals in China and the expat community
How to Connect: WeChat: GFCommunity | Website: www.globalfriendship.net | Instagram: @gfcommunity_china
The Art of Human Connection
Picture this: a casual expat bar in Guangzhou, 2014. Friends gather around tables, cameras clicking as black-and-white portraits capture something deeper than just faces—they're documenting a shared belief in human connection that transcends borders. This scene at Perry's bar in Linhexi wasn't just another social gathering; it was the birth of something that would grow into one of China's most inclusive international communities.
"Both of us come from social work and community-oriented backgrounds, so this lack of cohesion really stood out," reflects Fabiola, describing what she and her co-founder Rochelle noticed when they first arrived in Guangzhou. "We felt that something was missing—there was no inclusive space that truly brought people together in a meaningful, organic way."
What began as an art project inspired by JR's TED Talk "Can Art Change the World?" has evolved into Global Friendship—a community that refuses to operate within the typical silos that often divide international residents from locals, or separate communities by profession, nationality, or background.
Creating Connections Through Shared Purpose
The community's approach becomes clear through member experiences. Nicole, who joined Global Friendship several years ago, describes meeting one of her best friends on a charity trip to Guizhou: "We come from different countries, family backgrounds, ages, and jobs—and at first glance, we might not seem like we'd click. But what brought us together was our shared desire to help others."
The experience demonstrates how Global Friendship's programming works: "During the trip, we had plenty of chances to try Guizhou's local food, soak in the culture, and explore the waterfalls and natural beauty. The whole experience and atmosphere really connected us, opening the door to deeper conversations and friendships."
This illustrates the community's core insight: authentic connections form when people work together towards something meaningful.
A Vision Born from Creative Inspiration
Global Friendship's origin reflects the power of creative vision meeting genuine human need. When the founders watched JR's TED Talk about capturing ordinary people who share a belief in common humanity, something clicked.
"At that time, we were living, working, and travelling throughout China and Asia with friends from all around the world—Argentina, Mexico, Ghana, Nepal," Fabiola recalls. "We were living in Guangzhou, China, but experiencing a kind of Global Friendship—and that's where it all started."
Those early gatherings were intentionally organic. "We began organising events—at first, you could say, kind of 'hippie-style' events—meeting in parks, playing music, talking, sharing food... and little by little, more and more people started joining." The growth was entirely word-of-mouth until what started as casual park meetings evolved into a structured community serving thousands.
Open to Everyone
What makes Global Friendship different is its radical inclusivity. Unlike communities that focus on specific groups—expats only, women only, or particular jobs—Global Friendship operates as what Fabiola calls "a kind of community town hall."
"We are not focused on one particular group—we're not just for expats, not just for women, not just for teachers, students, or business people. Global Friendship is truly open to everyone, regardless of background."
The community actively encourages members to share their skills through programmes like "Friends with Passion," where anyone can lead workshops based on their interests. "Whether someone is into yoga, cooking, mental health, financial literacy, or anything else, we offer a platform to work together and host workshops or events."
Intentional Programming That Works
The community's inclusive design shows up in thoughtful programming details. "There's real diversity in the events they host—from charity work and Women's Day celebrations to clothes swaps, Chinese cultural events, hikes, and networking meetups," Nicole observes.
This variety reflects a deliberate strategy. Nicole points to specific examples: "At a Women's Day event, thoughtful questions at each table sparked conversations and helped everyone get to know others from different backgrounds."
Global Friendship creates structured opportunities for meaningful exchange rather than leaving connection to chance, recognising that genuine cross-cultural friendship often needs thoughtful frameworks to develop.
Community Impact
Over its decade-long journey, Global Friendship has created ripple effects that extend far beyond individual events. The community has facilitated countless meaningful connections, from business partnerships to romantic relationships to deep friendships that span continents and continue long after people have left Guangzhou.
Members describe developing cultural understanding through authentic relationship building. "The people I have met at these events come from all walks of life, and these interactions have made me more understanding and appreciative of the world's cultures," Nicole reflects. "The differences and customs everywhere are beautiful—rich with history and stories."
Weathering Change and Growing Stronger
Like many communities, Global Friendship faced its greatest test during the COVID-19 pandemic. "From 2020 to 2023, we had to cancel many events, and a large number of our members left China."
But rather than disappearing, the community adapted. Fabiola describes 2025 as a period of renewal: "Now, we're starting to feel that sense of community again. We're meeting new people, but the world has changed, and what people wanted before—or the members who used to be really active—are no longer here."
This evolution required active listening. "We need to listen closely to what people want today, and that's why we're still here, feeling out the pulse of the community."
The community celebrated its emotional 2024 10th anniversary celebration that brought co-founder Rochelle back to the stage.
Learning to Lead
Leading an inclusive community for over a decade has taught valuable lessons about sustainable leadership. "One of the biggest lessons I've had to learn as a community leader is how to balance being real and visible with healthy boundaries."
Fabiola emphasises the importance of authenticity in leadership: "I've made it a point to share parts of my personal journey, whether it's about mental health, my fitness challenges, or everyday struggles. I believe that showing vulnerability helps create deeper, more genuine connections."
However, this openness must be balanced with self-care. "Being a strong leader doesn't mean doing everything—it means knowing when to step back so I can show up better the next time."
This philosophy extends to decision-making. The team regularly asks: "Does this event help create meaningful connections? Does it promote creativity, unity, and diversity?"
Looking Forward: Building Bridges
Global Friendship's vision for the future stays true to its founding ideas while embracing growth. "I want GF to be seen not just as a social platform, but as a hub for connection, creativity, and working together, where meaningful friendships are formed and individuals feel empowered to share their passions and talents."
Looking ahead, Fabiola hopes to "expand our presence to more cities, deepen our impact through more curated events, and continue adapting to the evolving needs of our members—especially women, professionals, creatives, and anyone seeking community while living abroad. At its heart, the future of GF is about continuing to build bridges, not walls—fostering understanding, belonging, and joy across cultures."
The community's evolution continues to be informed by member experiences. As Nicole notes about Global Friendship's appeal: "What draws me to Global Friendship is exactly its mix of cultures. These gatherings naturally create chances to connect and share with new people from different backgrounds."
The future vision includes expanding to other cities while maintaining the core values that have made the Guangzhou community successful. For anyone inspired by Global Friendship's model, the community's decade of experience suggests that sustainable, inclusive communities start with authentic connection and shared values about how people should treat each other, rather than trying to appeal to everyone.
Getting Involved
Ready to experience Global Friendship's unique approach to community building? The best way to understand what makes this community special is to attend an event and experience the welcoming atmosphere firsthand.
Connect with Global Friendship:
WeChat: GFCommunity
Website: www.globalfriendship.net
Instagram: @gfcommunity_china
Whether you're new to Guangzhou or have been there for years, whether you're local or international, whether you're looking for friendship, cultural exchange, or opportunities to contribute your skills—Global Friendship's doors are open.