2026 Language Bridges the World Speech Competition Concludes Successfully
21 Jul 2026
On 17 July, the 2026 Language Bridges the World East China Chinese Summer Programme Inter-University Speech Competition was successfully held in the Foundation Building at Xi’an Jiaotong-Liverpool University (XJTLU). International students from Chinese summer programmes at universities across East China gathered to showcase their language-learning achievements and share personal stories about China, Chinese culture and intercultural communication.
The competition was organised by the Modern Languages Centre of the Global Cultures and Languages Hub at XJTLU, with support from New York University Shanghai, Duke Kunshan University and CET Academic Programs in Shanghai. It aimed to provide a platform for summer programmes’ international students to exchange ideas and demonstrate their Chinese-language abilities, and encourage them to deepen their understanding of China through experiences both inside and outside the classroom.
XJTLU Associate Vice President for Education Professor Konstantinos Papadikis attended the competition and delivered opening remarks. Reflecting on the theme Language Bridges the World, he noted that language and mathematics are both fundamental codes through which we understand the world. As an indispensable medium for intercultural communication, language plays a vital role in conveying information and fostering mutual understanding. He added that, even in the age of artificial intelligence, genuine communication between people, mutual understanding and a deeper appreciation of different cultures still depend on language as a bridge.
To accommodate students at different stages of Chinese-language learning, the competition allows students to compete in four levels: Beginner, Intermediate, Upper-Intermediate and Advanced. A total of 56 international students from university summer programmes across East China took part in this year’s event.
Each group featured a distinct theme. Beginner participants spoke on “My First Time in China”, sharing memorable experiences from their early days in the country. The Intermediate Group explored “If I Could Take One Chinese Gift Home…”, presenting cultural symbols that held personal meaning. Upper-Intermediate speakers addressed “A Funny Mistake I Made in China”, Sharing cases of misunderstanding in intercultural communication. The Advanced Group considered “Celebrating Each Culture’s Beauty, Sharing Beauty Together: Cultural Empathy Through My Eyes”, examining understanding and resonance in cultural exchange.
Yaebin Cheon (千礼宾) from South Korea won First Prize in the Beginner Group. In her speech, she described her journey from feeling nervous about answering phone calls in Chinese to communicating confidently in the language.
She said that having her pronunciation and hard work recognised meant a great deal to her. She was also inspired by the enthusiasm shown by international students from different countries for learning Chinese and exploring Chinese culture, which motivated her to continue improving her language skills.
Keegan Hickey, an American student from New York University Shanghai, won First Prize in the Intermediate Group. His speech explored Chinese baijiu (Chinese liquor) culture through the experience of raising a glass with friends, prompting reflections on authenticity and the richness of lived experience. He also quoted Li Bai’s line, “When life is going well, enjoy it to the full; do not let the golden cup stand empty beneath the moon”, demonstrating the deep Chinese cultural understanding.
Chai Zhi Qi from Malaysia won Third Prize in the Advanced Group. Taking “Celebrating Each Culture’s Beauty, Sharing Beauty Together” as its central thread, her speech reflected on how, as a Malaysian Chinese, she had remained connected to her cultural roots through Chinese-language education. She also paid tribute to Mr Lim Lian Geok, recalling his lifelong efforts to safeguard Chinese language education and promote equality among ethnic groups and languages.
She said, “I really enjoyed preparing for the competition. For me, the process was more precious than the result. I sincerely thank all the teachers and students who helped me, especially Ms.Fan Yang, and the summer school student helpers. Their selfless support enabled me to deliver my speech almost flawlessly and made me more confident.”
Wen Ting, Division Head of Chinese at the Modern Languages Centre, XJTLU, said: “This speech competition was not only a test of language ability, but also an exchange of ideas across borders. With Chinese language, the contestants shared the joys and challenges of their learning journeys, the difficulties and surprises of living in China, and their reflections on cultural differences and empathy for other perspectives. Their sincere and nuanced observations touched every heart. We are honoured to have created such a platform for exchange and learning, making the competition a cherished memory of China for every participant.”
Language can connect cultures and create new possibilities for the future. The 2026 competition celebrated international students’ achievements in learning Chinese and their journeys of cultural discovery. Looking ahead, the organisers hope that more international students will use Chinese to discover China, understand the world and create new stories through intercultural exchange.
21 Jul 2026