In 2010, Yael Farjun had a chance encounter with someone at the Shanghai Expo, which led her to undertake an amazing research project. We discuss the heroism and humanity of one Chinese man in Vienna, which resulted in an epic migration from Europe to Shanghai. And in so doing, we highlight Shanghai’s unique historical status as a Free Port, and a magnet for people from around the world.  

Yael Farjun’s object: Her wristwatch.

Yael Farjun’s favourite WeChat sticker: An excited Gal Gadot.

Yael Farjun’s favourite word or phrase in Chinese: 哎哟 (Āiyō - Dammit / Oh gosh, expressing astonishment or pain).

Yael Farjun’s favourite place to visit in China: 阳朔 (Yángshuò).

Yael Farjun’s selfie with Oscar.

Yael Farjun: The proportion of Pork produced in China versus other meat. 

Yael Farjun: The Israel Pavilion at the 2010 Shanghai Expo.

Yael Farjun: 何凤山 (Ho Feng-Shan), the Chinese Consul General in Vienna, who issued escape visas for many thousands of Jews escaping the Third Reich. 

Yael Farjun: Researching the friends and descendants of the Jewish Refugees to Shanghai.