Yan

Travel information

I am currently

Description

I believe that the connections between people are one of the most magical things in life.

I'm endlessly curious about people, cultures, and the different ways we choose to live. That's one of the main reasons I travel. Being on the road puts me in a strange, floating state where I become more aware of everything around me—the small details, the conversations, the rhythms of daily life.

Workaway creates the opportunity to build slower, more meaningful connections with the people and communities I meet. Instead of simply passing through, I can become part of everyday life for a little while—sharing meals, working together, learning from one another, and experiencing a place from the inside rather than as a visitor.

That slower pace allows me to take in a new environment, culture, and people without feeling like I'm constantly chasing the next destination.

Interests

Videography

Sustainability

Movies & TV

Culture

DIY & crafts

Writing

Performing arts

Photography

Plant care

Music

Languages

Hitchhiking

History

Drawing & painting

Cooking & food

Astronomy

Books

Art & design

Yoga / Wellness

Water sports

Team sports

Sailing / Boating

Outdoor activities

Nature

Mountain

Hiking

Cycling

Camping

Adventure sports

Languages

Languages spoken
English: Fluent
Chinese (Mandarin): Fluent

More details about my language interests
Languages have always been one of my favorite ways to connect with people. I'm interested in learning Arabic and Spanish. It's often music that inspires me to start learning a new language. I also studied Teaching Chinese as a Foreign Language and enjoy sharing my own language with others. During my travels, I taught some of my Syrian friends to sing Chinese songs.

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Skills and knowledge I'd like to share or learn

I'm interested in:  

Languages

Eco Projects

Teaching

Light gardening

Life at a Farmstay

Animal Care

Hospitality/Tourism

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Some knowledge of:  

Charity Work

Art Projects

Creative DIY projects

Creating/ Cooking family meals

More details about your skills

I enjoy learning new skills, and I'm the kind of person who likes to become useful wherever I am.

Professionally, I have experience creating photos and short-form videos for social media. I can help with photography, filming, editing, content planning, and managing Chinese social media platforms.

Through my travels and volunteer experiences, I've also become comfortable with the everyday tasks that keep a place running. I'm happy to help with housekeeping, reception, cooking or simply lending an extra pair of hands wherever they're needed.

One of my strengths is adapting quickly. Every new place has its own rhythm, and I enjoy observing first, learning how things work, and becoming part of the team instead of expecting the team to adapt to me.

Beyond practical skills, I'm always excited to learn through making. I've explored ceramics, glassblowing, and theatre, not because they were part of a career plan, but because I'm fascinated by craftsmanship, creativity, and the people behind them. I love learning from those who are passionate about what they do, and I'm always happy to try something I've never done before.

I don't mind getting my hands dirty, and I never think a job is "too small." Whether I'm editing a promotional video, cleaning a room, washing dishes, or helping guests feel welcome, I believe every task contributes to creating a better experience for everyone.

Most importantly, I bring curiosity, responsibility, and a positive attitude. I'm always willing to learn, ask questions, and do my best to leave a place better than I found it.

Age

31

What else ...

One thing I've discovered about myself is that making films is the creative work I want to keep doing for the rest of my life.

I love how filmmaking allows us to build a world that didn't exist before. Sometimes I catch myself wishing real life were as dramatic as the stories in my head. Then I remember that's exactly why I make films—to give those imagined worlds a place to exist, even if only for a little while. There's something magical about sitting in a room with strangers who all believe in the same story for two hours.

I'm not especially interested in filmmaking as a large industrial production. What I enjoy most is creating with a small group of people who trust one another, where everyone contributes ideas and the process feels personal and collaborative.

Alongside climbing, making films has given me some of the happiest and most meaningful moments of my life.

Some more information

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  Smoker

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  Driver's licence

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  Allergies

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  Special dietary requirements