Artwork from Norman J. Olson

Purple colored pencil drawing of two amorphous, robot like figured locked in combat standing upright. Two round circles in white are above them.

As most people who know my work know, I have lived all of my life in the Twin Cities Metro area (St. Paul and Minneapolis, Minnesota)…  I currently live in Maplewood, an inner ring suburb of St. Paul… 

I do not normally give my art works titles because I want the audience, such as it is, to see the work without any of the limitations of meaning which a title would perhaps supply. This is predicated on the belief that these works have any meaning at all, and if they do, I would hope that it is on a psychological, emotional and/or symbolic level… or at least not on a topical level… Anyway, after I finished this drawing, I decided that it could appropriately be titled “Minneapolis, January 2026”  This is a small drawing in ballpoint pen on watercolor paper…

Artwork and poetry from Cai Zhenyuan

Older middle aged East Asian man in a white collared shirt and reading glasses standing near a misted-over window.

Boundless Love

By Cai Zhenyuan

International Artist | Founder of Neo-Aesthetics | High-Dimensional Consciousness Poet

Light entangles with darkness, good confronts evil

Love coexists with hate, gain entwines with loss

Obsession and letting go, cycle through the mortal world

Conflicting consciousness, the eternal entanglement of the universe

Yet hands held fast, hearts embraced in union

Weave the tenderest harmony on earth

The scale of good and evil tilts, conscience gasps in shadow

Hypocrisy devours kindness, ugliness dons a gentle guise

Angels and devils, reshaped by worldly ways

Only the power of love can pierce the mist, and kindle light within

We live for others, toil for others’ values

Lost in others’ dreams, we forsake our own souls

Tears and laughter, love and hate, gain and loss

None are the true longing of our deepest spirits

But bewilderment and regret for having strayed from ourselves

We perform bravery, act out wisdom

Pander to others’ expectations, abandon our inner yearnings

Love the world with love defined by others

Yet forget the self we ought to cherish most

Life begins in tears, ends in regret

Sorrowful souls linger in the cosmos

Fallen consciousness pervades the mortal realm

Only boundless love can redeem the twisted heart

Love knows no bounds, great love stretches infinite

Consciousness endures, love never fades away

Lost steps tread through false peace

Rushing toward the unknown, we lose the true essence of love

Boundless love is a re-examination of love’s meaning

A call to awaken truth and purity

Consciousness endures, the power of love stands eternal

Enough to repel all darkness in the world

Abstract image of blue, yellow, gray, and green paint.
Cai Zhenyuan's book cover, pink and purple watercolor image that looks like a person from the back.
Abstract image of purple, white, blue and green paint.
Blue and purple and white paint.
Blue, green, yellow, and purple paint, lighter colors on the right.
Brown abstract image of a person walking forward with a gray and blue and pink light background.
Salmon pink and white abstract design.

About Cai Zhenyuan

Cai Zhenyuan is an international artist, founder of Neo-Aesthetics, high-dimensional consciousness poet, and creator of Post-Shock Art Theory. His creative practice centers on the fusion of Chinese and Western visual expressions and high-dimensional consciousness philosophy, spanning the disciplines of painting and poetry. Rooted in spiritual awakening and boundless love, he has forged a distinctive spiritual voice in the international art and humanities community, dedicated to building bridges of cross-cultural spiritual resonance through art and poetry.

Essay from Bafoyev Mirzabek Mirvohidovich

Image of two men and two women in white coats and scrubs looking at X-rays of someone's brain as a person goes in a MRI machine.

MODERN MEDICAL EXAMINATIONS: FROM TRADITIONAL METHODS TO DIGITAL DIAGNOSTICS

Bafoyev Mirzabek Mirvohidovich

2nd year student of the Fundamental Medicine Department of the Abu Ali ibn Sino Bukhara State Medical Institute.

Abstract: This article extensively covers the stages of development of modern medical examinations, processes from traditional diagnostic methods to digital and high-tech diagnostic systems. The study analyzes the historical and practical significance of clinical examination, laboratory tests and instrumental examinations, and discusses their integration with today’s digital medicine.

The article also emphasizes the role of ultrasound, computed tomography, magnetic resonance imaging, artificial intelligence-based diagnostic platforms and telemedicine technologies in improving the quality of medical examinations. Along with the advantages of digital diagnostics – increased diagnostic accuracy, saving time and resources, and the possibility of providing remote medical services – problematic aspects such as data security, technical infrastructure, and specialist training are also analyzed.

The article aims to reveal the strategic importance of modern medical examinations in the healthcare system and to scientifically highlight their contribution to the early detection of diseases, increasing the effectiveness of treatment, and the development of preventive medicine.

Keywords: modern medical examinations, traditional diagnostic methods, clinical examination, laboratory diagnostics, computed tomography, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), X-ray examinations, functional diagnostics, biochemical analyses, hematological analyses, screening examinations, preventive medicine, early detection of diseases, digital diagnostics, digital medicine, artificial intelligence-based diagnostics, medical image analysis, telemedicine, remote medical examinations, medical database, health information systems, clinical decision support systems, diagnostic accuracy, integration of medical technologies, digitalization of healthcare, efficiency of medical examinations, medical information security, personal data protection, modern healthcare system.

Introduction

Today, the healthcare system is undergoing fundamental changes in the context of rapidly developing scientific and technological progress. The increase in the population, the increase in the share of chronic and non-communicable diseases, the widespread spread of diseases among young people, and the intensification of global epidemiological threats are further increasing the demand for the quality of medical examinations. In this regard, the role of modern medical examinations in ensuring early detection of diseases, accurate diagnosis, and effective treatment is of paramount importance.

Traditional medical examination methods – clinical examination, laboratory tests, and basic instrumental examinations – have been the basis of medical practice for many years. However, the complex tasks facing modern medicine, in particular, the detection of diseases at the early stages, the identification of latent pathological processes, and the provision of an individual approach, require expanding the capabilities of traditional methods. As a result, the medical examination system is moving to a new level, combined with digital technologies.

In recent years, the introduction of digital diagnostics, high-precision instrumental examinations (ultrasound, computed tomography, magnetic resonance imaging), artificial intelligence and machine learning technologies into medicine has significantly increased the accuracy and speed of the diagnostic process. These technologies allow doctors to analyze large volumes of medical data in a short time, reduce errors and help in clinical decision-making. At the same time, the development of telemedicine and remote medical examinations is becoming an important factor in ensuring territorial equality of healthcare services. However, along with the widespread introduction of digital diagnostics, urgent problems such as information security, protection of personal medical data, lack of technical infrastructure and training of qualified personnel are also emerging. Therefore, a scientific analysis of the capabilities and limitations of modern medical examinations, and an assessment of the compatibility of traditional and digital diagnostic methods are among the important tasks of today’s medicine. This topic is of particular relevance due to its scientific and practical importance in modernizing the healthcare system, improving the quality of diagnostics, and strengthening the health of the population.

Main part

Advantages

1. Practical significance and limitations of traditional medical examinations:

Traditional medical examinations – clinical examination, analysis of patient complaints and standard laboratory tests – form the basis of medical practice. These methods are characterized by their low cost, convenience and speed and are important in the initial assessment of diseases at the primary level. For example, simple clinical and laboratory examinations may be sufficient to detect common diseases such as arterial hypertension, diabetes mellitus or anemia.

However, the sensitivity and accuracy of traditional methods are limited in some cases, making it difficult to detect latent or early stages of the disease. For example, in the early stages of oncological diseases, due to insufficient clinical symptoms, diagnosis based only on traditional examinations may be delayed. This leads to a decrease in the effectiveness of treatment.

2. Modern instrumental examinations and diagnostic accuracy:

Instrumental diagnostic methods – ultrasound examination (UTT), computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and endoscopic examinations – play an important role in modern medical examinations. These methods allow for high-resolution imaging of the structure of internal organs and tissues, helping to identify pathological changes at an early stage.

For example, with the help of CT and MRI, cerebral circulatory disorders, tumors and traumatic injuries are detected in a short time. However, in practice, the possibilities of using these technologies are not the same in all medical institutions. Due to the lack of modern equipment in rural areas or the lack of qualified specialists, patients are forced to contact large medical centers. This leads to a loss of time and financial resources.

3. Digital diagnostics and artificial intelligence capabilities:

In recent years, the introduction of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning technologies has brought the quality of medical examinations to a new level. AI-based programs allow for the analysis of radiological images, automatic evaluation of laboratory results, and clinical risk analysis. For example, artificial intelligence has been proven to significantly increase the accuracy of diagnosis when detecting breast cancer or lung diseases using X-ray and CT images.

4. Telemedicine and remote medical examinations:

Telemedicine technologies have clearly demonstrated their practical importance, especially during the pandemic. The ability to provide remote consultations, analyze medical examination results, and monitor the patient’s condition has created convenience for many patients. For example, remote monitoring of patients with chronic cardiovascular or endocrine diseases helps prevent the development of complications.

Information security and personnel issues:

With the widespread introduction of digital medical examinations, the issue of protecting personal medical data has become an urgent issue. If the confidentiality of information stored in electronic medical records, online platforms, and databases is not ensured, there is a risk of violation of patient rights. At the same time, there are also problems associated with digital diagnostics. Incorrectly configured algorithms or insufficient clinical data can lead to errors in diagnosis. In addition, practice has proven that the clinical experience and individual assessment of a doctor cannot be fully replaced by artificial intelligence.

Telemedicine cannot be effective in all cases. Remote examinations are not enough in situations where a physical examination is required or in urgent cases. In addition, the quality of the Internet network and the availability of technical means are also important limiting factors.

Training qualified specialists for the effective implementation of modern medical examinations is one of the important tasks. Although modern equipment is available in some cases in practice, the lack of personnel who can fully and correctly use it reduces the effectiveness of diagnostics.

Conclusion

Modern medical examinations are an important component of the healthcare system, embodying a continuous development process from traditional diagnostic methods to digital and high-tech systems. The study revealed that traditional clinical and laboratory examinations are important in primary diagnosis, but their capabilities are limited in identifying complex and latent diseases. Therefore, the introduction of modern instrumental and digital diagnostic methods significantly increases the quality of medical examinations.

The analysis shows that ultrasound, computed tomography, magnetic resonance imaging, and artificial intelligence-based diagnostic systems are important tools for early detection of diseases, increasing diagnostic accuracy, and choosing the right treatment tactics. In particular, digital technologies support the doctor’s clinical decision-making process and increase the efficiency of medical services. Telemedicine, on the other hand, creates significant opportunities for reducing regional inequalities and developing remote medical services.

However, there are also a number of problems in the process of introducing modern medical examinations. Ensuring information security, protecting personal medical data, developing technical infrastructure, and training qualified personnel are the main problems of this area. It is also an important conclusion that digital diagnostic tools cannot be given priority over clinical experience, but should be considered as a means of complementing and supporting the work of a doctor.

In conclusion, modern medical examinations provide effective results based on the combination of traditional and digital diagnostic methods. This approach is of great importance in early detection of diseases, increasing the effectiveness of treatment, and modernizing the healthcare system. In the future, the scientific development and widespread implementation of modern medical examinations will serve to strengthen the health of the population.

References:

1.Abdullayev A.A. Fundamentals of modern medical diagnostics (Tashkent Uzbekistan Medical Publishing House 2019)

2.Karimov I.R., Ismoilova N.S. Clinical and laboratory diagnostics. (Tashkent: Ilm Ziyo 2020)

3.Khudoyberganov B.T. Instrumental examination methods (Tashkent: Yangi asr avlody 2018)

4.Rakhimov Sh.K. Preventive medicine and screening system (Tashkent: Science and technology 2021)

5.Ministry of Health of the Republic of Uzbekistan. Digital healthcare concept (Tashkent 2023)

6.Harrison T.R. Harrison’s Principles of Internal Medicine. (New York McGraw-Hill Education 2022)

7.Topol E.J. Deep Medicine: How Artificial Intelligence Can Make Healthcare Human Again. (New York Basic Books 2019)

8.World Health Organization (WHO). Digital Health Guidelines. (Geneva: WHO Press 2021)

9. McRobbie D.W. MRI from Picture to Proton. (Cambridge Cambridge University Press 2018)

10. Kahn C.E. Digital Radiology and PACS. (New York: Springer, 2017)

11. Dunn W.B. Laboratory Medicine: The Diagnosis of Disease in the Clinical Laboratory. (Oxford Oxford University Press, 2021)

European Society of Radiology (ESR). AI in Medical Imaging. (Vienna ESR Publications, 2022)

Poetry from Bai Gengsheng, translated by Lan Xin

The poem The Backbone is a profound condensation of the spiritual core of Chinese civilization. Using “backbone” as a metaphor, it interprets the unyielding integrity that underpins the survival and progress of individuals, nations, civilizations and eras. It not only embodies the persistent spiritual essence of the Chinese nation but also echoes the common pursuit of dignity and perseverance shared by all humanity.

  Authored by Bai Gengsheng and translated by L a n X i n (Lanxin Samei), the translation breaks linguistic barriers to accurately convey the philosophical depth and spiritual power of the original work. It builds a bridge for in-depth dialogue between Chinese spiritual thoughts and the world’s diverse civilizations, allowing the wisdom of Eastern civilization to resonate in a global context and serving as a vivid testament to the mutual learning and symbiosis of world civilizations.

The Backbone

Author: Bai Gengsheng

Translator: Lan Xin (Lanxin Samei)

About the Author: Vice Chairman of the China Writers Association, Member of the Standing Committee of the 13th National Committee of the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC), Honorary Dean of the China Yulong Wenbi Dongba Culture Academy

About the Translator: Internationally renowned writer and poet, the only female inheritor of the World Memory Heritage Dongba Culture, Dean of the China Yulong Wenbi Dongba Culture Academy, Winner of International Literary Awards

The wind has no backbone

It roams entirely at its own will

Grass needs no backbone

It merely sways as the wind blows

Water requires no backbone

It just flows gently toward the lowlands

Insects have no need for backbone

They have not evolved to that stage yet

Yet

Mountains possess their backbone

To hold aloft the boundless firmament

Houses stand with their backbone

Or they could never shelter all the needy with warmth and delight

Bridges are built with their backbone

To bear the endless throng of carts and steeds passing over

A person must have backbone

For it lets you stand tall and unshakable in life and living

An army must have backbone

For it lets you hold your broad chest high to stand guard and fight

A nation can never go without backbone

With it you keep your head held high in unyielding perseverance

A country can never go without backbone

With it you are filled with boundless vigor spirit and vitality

A society cannot lack its backbone

Among all mortal beings only the awakened and virtuous embody it

An era cannot lack its backbone

Without it we might as well sink back into ignorance and barbarism

Backbones always lie in quiet solitude

Never vying for the spotlight or fame

Backbones are always left uncelebrated

For they scorn all glib and flattering words

Backbones are often cast aside and forgotten

Yet only when we sit upright or stand tall do we fathom their true worth and essence

Backbones have endured endless wrongs for eons

Yet they remain steadfast without regret or grievance

Young East Asian woman with her dark hair up in a bun and a yellow flowered dress seated next to an older East Asian man in reading glasses and a dark coat reading together under the trees.
Magazine cover of Global People magazine with a younger Bai Gengsheng standing in front of hazy purple mountains.

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Essay from Ruziyeva Nigina San’at kizi

Young Central Asian woman with long straight dark hair and a white top, photographed at an angle.

O‘TKIR HOSHIMOV’S WORK “NOTES WRITTEN IN THE MARGINS OF A NOTEBOOK”

Abstract.
This article discusses the work “Notes in the Margins of a Notebook” by O‘tkir Hoshimov and its significance. The work calls for avoiding what is forbidden, striving for honesty, being faithful and conscientious, and acting justly. The book consists of short stories and aphoristic reflections, each of which undoubtedly has a positive influence on human spirituality.

Key words: Notes in the Margins of a Notebook, chapters, aphorisms, anecdote, truth, book.

As Jalaluddin Rumi wrote: “A book is our present life. Everyone needs it, including children. The main issue lies in choosing the right books for them. We agree with the idea that reading improperly chosen books is worse and more harmful than reading nothing at all” [1].

A book is the lamp of intellect and the wing of thought. As we read books, our spirituality becomes richer, our worldview broadens, and our intellect sharpens. If we stop reading, we remain in darkness and lose the sense of direction. When our path is dark, we fall into depths and become unable to act independently without relying on others’ opinions. In short, we may turn into a “mankurt” who has forgotten his identity and past. A person who reads books, however, can overcome any obstacle in any situation, because books are full of mysteries and wisdom. As Amir Temur once said: “A book (a manuscript) is the foundation of all creativity, construction, intellect, knowledge, and wisdom; it is the educator who shapes life” [2].

Research objective is to provide a brief overview of the work “Notes in the Margins of a Notebook.” When we look at the creative heritage of the writer and public figure O‘tkir Hoshimov, we see that almost all his works call people to justice, enlightenment, and goodness, sowing the seeds of light in the heart. In nearly all his works, the greatest figure — the Mother — is honored and praised. He never writes about a topic whose essence he does not understand. He portrays his characters sincerely, as living and realistic people, revealing not their outward appearance but their inner world. He analyzes their spiritual state in harmony with the environment and the era through deep philosophical reflection, interpreting human suffering in all its aspects: emotional state, attitude to life and people, thoughts, inner experiences, and even love [3].

Discussion and results.
Although O‘tkir Hoshimov dedicated this work to his wife O‘lmasxon, his sharp взгляд did not ignore the difficult days that befell our nation. Each short story in the book is like an inscription written on the pages of the notebook called life, full of bitter truths. Everyone writes such notes according to their worldview. Some live honestly and purely throughout their lives yet never see prosperity, but leave behind a good name. Others live selfishly and unjustly, yet are regarded by some as “great people.” The main idea of the work is that no one can escape the guardian called Truth. Wherever one may be, with whomever one may be, truth always remains truth.

Most importantly, the work presents situations that may seem amusing at first glance but are deeply tragic upon reflection. For example, in the anecdote “Incompetence,” which is presented with sharp humor:

A tale from the 1960s: In ancient times, a precious jewel disappeared from the treasury of a king. Merchants from other lands were arrested on suspicion, and guards with drawn swords were placed over them. By coincidence, four Uzbek merchants were also arrested, but no guards were assigned to them. When asked why, they replied: “They do not need guards — if one tries to escape, the other will catch him.”

A joke from the 1970s: A question was asked to Armenian Radio: “At an exhibition in Paris, three-star Armenian cognac won a gold medal. Why did the five-star one receive nothing?” The answer was: “We ourselves are surprised! Both were poured from the same barrel!”

The tragedy of the 1980s: The repression known as the “Uzbek affair” took place. Thousands of innocent people were imprisoned and exiled. Uzbeks were labeled as “falsifiers,” “bribe-takers,” and “dependents” — not because they were truly guilty, but because of their indifference, their inability to unite, and their incompetence.

The question of the new millennium: “When shall we unite? When?” [4]

While reading this humorous anecdote, you may smile, but painful thoughts inevitably arise. It reminds us of the tragic period when our land became a colony of Tsarist Russia. At that time, some weaknesses of the Uzbek people, which we may not admit, were revealed. This is not meant as a negative judgment of the Uzbek people, but it is clear that dependence on others resulted from incompetence and disunity. Yet, fortunately, bright days have come, although bitter memories remain. We must not repeat the mistakes of the past. These hardships served as valuable lessons and experience for us.

On the other hand, the Uzbek people also possess virtues that wash away such shortcomings. As evidence, we may cite the story “Andisha” (Consideration):

“Our ancestors used to warn: ‘Never build your hearth against your neighbor’s wall. If the smoke from your fire irritates your neighbor’s eyes, the food you eat will be unlawful.’ … What more proof is needed to demonstrate the Uzbek sense of consideration?” [5]

This shows how honest, pure, and God-fearing our ancestors were. The story emphasizes that no one should seek benefit from another’s harm. In short, this work has a great educational influence on readers, as it reveals the truths of life as they are, without exaggeration or embellishment. Each story and each aphoristic line deserves to become a separate book. While reading, one sometimes sinks into deep thought, sometimes sheds tears. This work is a collection of wisdom accumulated throughout the author’s life and lessons that will guide us throughout our own lives.

References:

1).© Hikmatlar.uz [1] 

2).https://yuz.uz>news>kitob–hayot….[2]

3)Arxiv.uz [3] 

4)O’tkir Hoshimov ,,Daftar hoshiyasidagi bitiklar ʼʼ Toshkent—2024 [4;5].

Ruziyeva Nigina San’at kizi is a 2nd year student of the primary education department of the Shahrisabz State Pedagogical Institute. To date, she has authored more than 15 articles. She is the owner of the “El-yurt a’lochosi” badge. She is a delegate of several official projects such as “Jutice code”, “Kelajak ofisi”, “Eco-kahramon”. She is a member of the “Yoshlar akademiyasi”, “Intellektual yoshlar”, “ShDPI Yosh Liderlari”, and “Yosh islohotchilar kengashi”. She also holds a national certificate of B and B+ levels.

Essay from Botirjonova Sevinch

Young Central Asian woman with long straight dark hair, a brown coat, a white collared top, and hands neatly folded. Hydrangea flowers and a sign in the background.

The Power of Words in a Connected World

Sevinch Botirjonova
a second-year student of English Philology
at Uzbekistan State World Languages university

Abstract
These days words are really important. We can share our thoughts with people over the world. It does not take a time for messages to travel from one place to another. They can go across continents in a few seconds. This means that people from places can talk to each other easily.


The way we write and share ideas is different now. We can break down walls that used to keep people apart. This article is going to take a look at words and how they affect the way people talk to each other around the world. Words can start conversations between people from cultures. They can also help people learn things and inspire young people to do something. Words can even make people
want to change the world.


We will look at some examples and some ideas about how words work. You will see how writing can bring people together and help them grow. Words can help individuals and whole societies become better. The power of words is very strong. It can make a big difference, in the world. The article also talks about what it
means to be a writer today. It says that using words to help people understand each other is really important. We need to use words to make people feel for others and to have conversations about things that affect the whole world. The article is saying that being a writer is about using words to build understanding and empathy and to
have honest conversations, about global issues.

Keywords: Words, Writing, Global Communication, Digital Age, Youth, Culture, Social Change

Introduction:
We have never been this connected before. The internet and digital media have completely changed the way we talk to each other learn things and share our ideas with other people. Things that used to take weeks to happen now happen quickly. For example, tweets and articles and blog posts can go around the world in a very short amount of time. The internet and digital media are making all of this happen.


What is, at the center of all this? Words. The words we use to talk to each other and share our ideas with the internet and digital media are very important. Words do a lot more than just help us talk. They really shape who we are as people. Words change how we see things. They set the tone for how we relate to each other. This happens whether we are talking to people in our neighborhood or
people who live on the other side of the world. When people from different backgrounds write to each other they start having real conversations. These people swap perspectives that they would not have been able to share. Words help people, from backgrounds understand each other. Words are important because they help
us relate to each other.


This article is about how words work in our world. Words are used in classrooms and, on platforms. They are also used in movements started by people who want to make a difference. Words are used to push for change. The main idea of this article is to show that words are very important. When we write in a careful way it can make the world a better place. We will look at real life examples and ideas from
people to understand why it is so important to use words responsibly. Words matter because our world is connected in many ways.

Words as Tools of Global Communication
Words are really important they always have been. Now they can go a lot further. Because of the way the world is connected a few lines of writing can start a discussion or share an idea with people all around the world. People do not need to be in the place to talk about things through writing. News, from countries, online magazines and things that scholars write can take ideas from one part of the world and bring them to another part, which affects what people everywhere are talking about. Words and writing and ideas can travel far and that is what is happening with international news and online journals and academic articles they are moving words and ideas from one place to another.


Take an article it does not matter where it is written it could be written in Brazil. By the next day someone in a completely different place, like Nigeria or Japan is reading this article and thinking about what it says. When writers write about things like climate change or education reform the things they write can really make people think and push them to do something about it together. This is true no
matter where these people live in the world. The fact that people speak English helps to make this happen because English is like a bridge that lets people, from countries talk to each other and keep talking about important things.

Climate change and education reform are issues that need to be talked about and writers who write about these things are helping to make a difference. In politics and diplomacy the things we say can really matter. We can say something that helps people get along. We can say something that makes them fight. The way we say things like the tone we use when we agree on something or the small details we talk about when we’re trying to make a deal these things can
bring countries together or make them not like each other. The words we use are not just sounds they can actually change things. Have real effects on people. Words, like politics and diplomacy are very important because they can make peace or break peace.

Cultural Exchange Through Writing
Writing is really important for people to understand each other. People use writing to share the things that’re most important to them like what they think is good and bad the stories they tell and how they look at the world. Things like literature, essays and articles help us learn about cultures. They show us what is really going on in these cultures and help us stop thinking that everyone in a culture is the same, which’s not true. Writing, like literature and essays and articles is a part of cultural exchange. Cultural exchange is when people, from cultures share ideas and learn from each other. Writing helps people do this by sharing their values and stories and ways of seeing the world.

Imagine a writer from Uzbekistan talking about her hometown. She tells us about the things her family does. What her school is like. People who live far away can learn about what life is like in Central Asia. They get to see what it is really like not just what they hear on the news. When we read stories from places we learn more about the people who live there. Every time we hear from someone we
understand things a little better and we respect the things that make us different.


This helps us not to misunderstand each other. The Uzbekistan writer and other writers, like her help us to really respect people from places. Global writing projects and international publications make sure that the voices of people from around the world get heard. These projects set up spaces where people from backgrounds can share their thoughts and learn from each other. Global writing projects bring people together. In the end words show that cultural diversity is not something that we need to fix it is something that we should celebrate.


Through writing projects and international publications writing helps cultures connect with each other challenge each other and inspire each other. Global writing projects and international publications are very important, for this. Global writing projects and international publications start conversations between cultures. These projects let people from over the world share what they think and feel. People, from backgrounds can tell their own stories. This is where people
really start to understand each other.


Global writing projects show that being different is not a thing. It is actually a thing because we can learn from each other. Our words help us talk to each other and share ideas. Global writing projects and international publications let us learn from people with backgrounds.

The Role of Words in Education
Words really shape the way we learn things in education. When students do their writing they are not just filling up pages with words. They are actually learning to think for themselves. Education, through words helps students to question the things they read. Students of education learn to stand on their feet when it comes to thinking about things. Writing for school makes students dig deeper into the things
they are learning. Students of education have to check their facts to make sure they are right. Then they have to lay out their thoughts in a way so people can understand what they are saying about education.


When students take part in competitions or global writing projects they learn new things about language. They start to think that what they say is important. Writing research papers or articles helps students figure out how to make a point prove it and explain their ideas so others can understand. The skills they get from writing
stay with them for a time not just when they are, in school but also when they are working and doing other things in life.


I think it is really great that we have resources. Now students over the world can take online courses and read blogs. They can also do research on the internet. This is very good because it helps students who do not have a lot of money or resources. Digital resources make things fair for everyone. I believe that education is very important and it can really change people’s lives. Digital resources and education
are powerful tools. Education can change the lives of students through resources like online courses and blogs.

Youth Voices in the Digital Age
Today young people have a lot of ways to speak up. They use blogs and social media and online journals to make themselves heard around the world. Writing is not something they do for school anymore. Young people use writing to share what they think to support things they believe in and to learn more, about themselves.
Young people use writing to express their opinions and stand up for the things that matter to them.


You see it all the time: writers talking about big things like gender and mental health and climate change and education. These young writers say things that make people talk and think about things in a way. When young writers see their own ideas show up on platforms around the world it makes them feel good, about themselves and it keeps young writers writing.

International writing projects do not just give people a voice they show that how old you are does not matter when you want to make a difference. The things they write give them a way to say what they think in conversations that happen around the world. International writing projects are really important because they use words to make young people heard.

Words and Social Change
Words are really powerful. They can change everything. If we look back we can see that things like manifestos and essays and articles have started changes. Social movements often begin with one idea that someone writes down and this idea makes people think about the world in a different way. Words have always had the power to shake things up. This is still true today with social movements and the words that start them, like manifestos and essays and articles.


These days people can share articles and campaigns very quickly. This helps people learn about things like taking care of the earth and treating everyone fairly. Online campaigns make people think about the way they live and do things. When writers talk about things that’re not fair they help people see what is going on and they can even help change the rules. Online articles and campaigns are very powerful because they can go viral in a heartbeat and reach a lot of people.

They raise awareness, about issues and civil rights and they get people to rethink their habits or stand up for what is right like online campaigns do. It is clear that words are not something we say. They can really make people do something. When we use language in a way language is something that can help people. Words can move people to take action and make a difference. Language is
a tool that can be used for good things.

Ethical Responsibility of Writers
Writers have a job to do. They can help people understand things or they can make things more confusing. The things writers say can be hurtful or they can be helpful. Misinformation and stereotypes are not good. They can make people angry. Cause problems. Writers should be careful with the words they use because words can cause trouble and make people fight with each other. The words writers choose can
affect people in ways like spreading meanness and conflict. Writers have to think about how their words will affect people like the writers themselves and the people who read what the writers write.

Writers need to be careful. They have to check the facts choose the words they use carefully and think about who the readers of the writers are. Good writers do three things for the readers of the writers. The writers inform the readers of the writers and the writers inspire the readers of the writers and the writers educate the readers of the writers. The writers do not try to manipulate the readers of the writers or harm the readers of the writers.


People need to be honest when they write things. Writers who tell the truth and do the thing help people believe in what they are reading. This is really important because the world needs people to trust the things they read. Academic and journalistic standards matter here. Writers who stick to the truth and act with integrity are very important. They help build trust in the world. That is something that the world really needs.

Digital Platforms and the Global Reach of Words
Digital platforms have really changed things for writers. Now people can. Share their work on blogs and online journals and big international sites. This means that writers can share what they write with people over the world. Search engines help make sure that people can actually find and read the things that writers post online
so their words do not just sit there. Digital platforms and search engines are really good, for writers.


A short article that is posted online can reach someone who’s on the other side of the planet. This is the reality now. Digital writing does not know any borders. It pushes digital writers to think about the readers of the digital article from every corner of the globe. Digital writing is really cool because it can reach people, over the world. The people who write articles have to think about the readers of the
digital articles.

Personal Growth Through Writing
Writing is not about reaching other people it also changes the person who is doing the writing. The act of writing helps people to look back on the things that have happened to them to make sense of what they think and to trust their writing voice.


When young writers see their writing published in countries it is a really big confidence boost for the young writers. Writing is very important, for writers because it helps them to believe in their own writing abilities. Writing is really good for you because it helps you be more disciplined. It also sparks your creativity. Teaches you to keep going with things. Writing builds discipline sparks creativity and teaches you to stick with writing. Those skills from writing like discipline and creativity are things you can use anywhere, for the rest
of your life when you are doing writing or other things.

Words really do have a lot of power. They affect the way we talk to each other and the way we learn things. Words also play a role in how cultures change and grow over time. When we write something we are able to connect with people we would never meet in person. We tell them about our experiences and the things that have
happened to us. This helps to bring people even if they are from different countries or continents. Words help to build connections between people, around the world.


This is not about writing down your thoughts on a page. The words you use can really make a difference and spark change. When you use words wisely, they can open people’s minds. Help them understand things better. Words can also bring people together. For writers joining projects that involve people from other countries is not just about getting better at writing. It is a chance for young writers
to be part of a conversation that involves people from all, around the world.

Young writers can really be part of something when they join international projects. In the end words have the power to change things. Sometimes it only takes one idea to make a difference. Maybe it is one story that really gets to people. It could be one honest voice that speaks up and people listen to the words. The words can move the world forward.

References:

Crystal, D. (2003). English as a Global Language. Cambridge University Press.
Fairclough, N. (1995). Critical Discourse Analysis. Longman.
Harmer, J. (2004). How to Teach Writing. Pearson Education.
Castells, M. (2010). The Rise of the Network Society. Wiley-Blackwell.
UNESCO. (2021). Communication and Information in the Digital Age

I am Botirjonova Sevinch, born on October 1, 2005, in the Namangan region. I am currently a second-year student at the Faculty of English Philology of Uzbekistan State World Languages University in Tashkent. I am interested in volunteering and writing articles. At present, I work as a coordinator in the University Students Union and the “Umid Yogʻdusi” project.

Poetry from Isaac Dominion Aju

Young Black man with a nearly shaved head and a red tee shirt.

The Idea Of An English Name 

I began to find the idea of an English name absurd since I started reading Africanist novels and autobiographies – books steeped in the idea of what it means to be African, of feeling rooted in one’s own skin, and of refusing to be apologetic to have been born a black man. Many people consider me as the strange one, and I do not blame them. Sometimes I also accept the fact that I’m strange. In many ways. I do not like to follow the crowd, and that is a very strange thing in this modern world. I’ve been doing some research on what it means to be an old soul, and all the things I’ve learned about being an old soul is not farfetched in my own personal life. Interesting that one could be something without having the language to express it. After I wrote a very strange poem which was accepted and published by Dominique Literary Magazine in the United States I began to study what those words actually mean – Old Wise Soul – which is also the title of my poem. It was one of those poems that came unexpectedly, like a revelation, and I thought it was a silly poem after writing it. It’s about reincarnation and the feeling of ancestral presence, the strong knowledge that you are never alone, that your ancestors are always present with you, in you. The poem was not only accepted, I was asked to record my voice reciting it. That too, was also published. I then began to think about how I was the silly one, not knowing the weight of what I had written. To cure my silliness, I began to research what it means to be an old soul.

But today I want to talk about the “Dominion” I added to my names. A few years ago I decided I wouldn’t pick up another English name because my first name is considered English, though originally a Hebrew name, but Dominion is no ordinary name. It’s my personal revelation. I started using it as a middle name when I was about to sit for my SSCE. They kept asking for a middle name, then one day, like revelation, I got the name “Dominion”. I fought with the word or name. I wanted no English name but here I was receiving an English name for myself. The name persisted, strongly so. With everything in me, I couldn’t fight it off. That was how I became Isaac Dominion Aju. In the WAEC form I spelled in Isaac Dominion Aju.

Still, I wasn’t convinced.
After secondary school I stopped using Dominion. I went with Isaac Aju. Dominion sat in my WAEC certificate, unused in real life. But the name came back many months after my story was published for the first time. On a quiet evening in mid 2025 I sent out a story for the first time as Isaac Dominion Aju. I had to rule out the strict idea of not having another English name. I’m still Africanist in worldview, still surprised when African editors send beautiful mails of acceptance. Maybe having or not having an English name isn’t the problem here. Maybe the main point is to know who you are, to occupy your space in the world, to be a citizen of the world while not denying your roots.


Isaac Dominion Aju was nominated for the Best Of The Net and Pushcart Prize in 2025. He currently lives in Nigeria where he works as a fashion designer, specializing in men’s attire. He has appeared in various international journals including Poetry X Hunger, Cajun Mutt Press and All Your Poems Anthology. He was the first Nigerian poet to appear on Flapper Press Poetry Cafe.