On October 26, the “Z Generation Celebrates China”—“Panda Talk: My Story with China” International Student Chinese Speech Contest concluded at the International Cultural Exchange College of Tongji University in Shanghai.
In a highly competitive preliminary round, 17 standout contestants from seven universities and ten countries emerged from nearly a hundred participants to reach the finals. During the event, contestants shared their experiences of studying, living, and immersing themselves in Chinese culture, expressing their deep affection for China and their hopes for the future. The competition awarded one first prize, two second prizes, three third prizes, along with various special awards, including Best Speech, Best Creativity, Best Emotional Expression, and Most Inspiring Speech. Additionally, seven consolation prizes were given, and Tongji University, Chongqing Jiaotong University, and Guangxi University received Outstanding Organization Awards.
The competition centered around the theme “My Story with China,” providing a platform for international students in China to showcase their narratives. By sharing their personal tales, they fostered cultural exchange and understanding while presenting a genuine, multifaceted view of China to the global community.
At the event, speeches varied greatly in style. Some showcased Chinese martial arts, while others involved Beijing opera performances. For instance, Dang Zhu Mei from Vietnam spoke about her life in China during the “Era of QR Codes,” highlighting the convenience and efficiency of Chinese technology. Cao Yang from Madagascar recounted his encounter with China’s intangible cultural heritage, expressing his admiration for traditional Chinese culture. Meanwhile, Chai Yi Yin from Malaysia, referencing the famous Chinese poem, shared her perseverance and dedication in her studies in China. Each contestant’s rich content and heartfelt delivery earned enthusiastic applause from the audience.
Since its launch on May 20, the competition has captivated and engaged international students in China with its unique charm and significance. The day before the finals, contestants participated in a special event called “Perceiving China,” which included a visit to the SAIC Volkswagen factory, where they experienced firsthand the rapid development of China’s automotive industry and advanced manufacturing techniques. Additionally, they learned how to make Xiaolongbao (soup dumplings) in Jiading Nanxiang, indulging in authentic Chinese cuisine while gaining insights into the unique allure of traditional Chinese culture. This experience not only deepened their understanding of Chinese culture but also provided them with rich material and inspiration for their speeches.
Jing Ying, a senior inspector at the Shanghai People’s Association for Friendship with Foreign Countries, emphasized that language is a vehicle for culture. As one of the most spoken languages globally, Chinese carries the weight of thousands of years of history and culture. She expressed hope that international students would embrace the opportunity to share their true experiences in China with authenticity and vibrant language, helping more people understand and appreciate China.
Professor Sun Yixue, Dean of the International Cultural Exchange College at Tongji University, remarked that international students play a crucial role in telling China’s story to the world. They know how to communicate their experiences to their home countries and families. He encouraged contestants to share their insights and experiences from the competition with their respective countries, acting as ambassadors of friendship between China and the world.
The contest was organized by Tongji University, guided by the Shanghai Municipal Committee’s Office of Foreign Affairs and the Shanghai Municipal Government’s Foreign Affairs Office, and hosted in collaboration with the International Cultural Exchange College of Tongji University and the Shanghai People’s Radio Station’s Urban Brand Studio.
