Yuji gave a lecture on the Turkmen language at UCLouvain

On March 17, 2026, the halls of UCLouvain were transformed into a vibrant center for international dialogue as the Embassy of Turkmenistan hosted a landmark student briefing. Titled “Turkmenistan – The Homeland of Purposeful Winged Horses,” the event successfully merged the world of high-level diplomacy with the modern influence of digital polyglots to explore the theme of global connectivity.

The event was opened by H.E. Ambassador Sapar Palvanov, who provided participants with an insightful overview of the Turkmen state. His presentation discussed the nation’s geography and historical trajectory, with a focus on its pivotal path to independence and the reclamation of the Turkmen language. A special emphasis was placed on Turkmenistan’s Policy of Permanent Neutrality. In an era of shifting global alliances, the Ambassador explained how this policy serves as the foundation of Turkmenistan’s foreign relations, acting as a stabilizer in Central Asia and a catalyst for international peace and cooperation.

The event’s title pays homage to the Akhal-Teke horses, a national symbol of Turkmenistan representing speed, endurance, and grace. Through this lens, the audience was treated to a rich exploration of the country’s national heritage, including the deep-rooted traditions that define Turkmen identity and the specific role of language in consolidating national unity post-independence.

A major highlight for the attendees was the participation of Yuji Beleza, the world-famous multilingual content creator. With a combined following of over 17 million across TikTok and Instagram, Beleza brought a modern edge to the academic setting. Known for his viral videos capturing the "human moment" when individuals are reached in their native tongue, Beleza shared his personal philosophy on building cultural bridges. His message was simple and clear: language is not merely a tool for exchanging information, but a vehicle for profound respect. He noted that communicating in a person's native language is the definitive way to win them over, as it breaks down walls and stimulates instant engagement.

The briefing concluded with an interactive Q&A session, allowing students to engage directly with both the Ambassador and the influencer. As Turkmenistan continues to promote its policy of neutrality and cultural preservation, events like these serve as essential "winged horses," carrying a message of peaceful dialogue and cultural appreciation to the next generation of European leaders.