A South African Girl Meets World's Youth in Beijing

"Chinese language has brought me like-minded friends, unique cultural experiences, and a broad international perspective," said Samantha Cox, a senior student from Stellenbosch University in South Africa. Due to her interest in international relations, three years ago, she studied Chinese online alone in her bedroom. At that moment, she meets Chinese language learners from all over the world in China.

As freshman to the "Chinese Bridge" competition, Samantha was so excited. "The teacher asked me if I was willing to participate, and I said yes. I wanted to meet people who are interested in, speak, and learn Chinese language. Making friends is important than the rank."

On August 18, 2023, the opening ceremony of the 2023 "Chinese Bridge" Summer Camps for youths of the "Belt and Road" Initiative partner countries and for competitors in the 22nd "Chinese Bridge" Chinese Proficiency Competition for Foreign College Students was held in Beijing Language and Culture University. Samantha from South Africa took the stage as a representative to give a speech, sharing her story of getting to know Chinese language. (Video produced by Li Guoqing)

On her first weekend in Beijing, Samantha couldn't believe her dream had come true. "I really met everyone," she said.

On August 18, 2023, Samantha Cox from South Africa was interviewed in Beijing. (Photo by Li Guoqing)

"When I began to learn Chinese, I had no opportunity to visit China, but now I'm in China and I want to see the Forbidden City and Shanghai." During her brief time in Beijing, Samantha strolled through Hutong and was amazed with the completely different building style from South Africa, exclaiming, "It's so beautiful."

And what interests her the most are Chinese people and culture. She has already made several Chinese friends. "They take everything very seriously." She was deeply impressed with the way Chinese people bear themselves. 

Samantha, who has been living on the African continent, said that many young people in Africa are very interested in international cooperation. "In the modern world, Africa needs to trade with partners like China to gain progress. China and other BRICS countries have initiated the journey. Strengthening trade and infrastructure through cooperation is a good way."

"My hometown is hosting the BRICS Summit, and I think South Africa will have a better understanding of China," Samantha said.

On August 18, 2023, Samantha Cox from South Africa delivered a speech as a representative of the summer camper at the opening ceremony. (Photo by Li Guoqing)

As a young person, Samantha believes that cultural exchange is of the top priority, and competitions like "Chinese Bridge" are conducive to truly engaging young people.

"If I didn't participate in the competition, I wouldn't be here now. Learning and understanding other countries' cultures through educational exchange benefit me. I wonder if it works for all young people, but such opportunity is exciting for college students. It is a dialogue among students."

"Chinese language is a great bridge that helps me understand the world I live in." Samantha believes that Chinese language helps people from different countries and civilizations to establish relationships, communicate and interact with each other. Like a big family, they advance together, which is the significance of learning a foreign language.

On August 18, 2023, Samantha Cox from South Africa received the camp flag as a representative of the summer camper at the opening ceremony. (Photo by Li Guoqing)

In the future, Samantha wants to visit Xi'an, a beautiful ancient city with rich history. After the summer camp, she will stay in China for another 6 months, and hopes to have the opportunity to return to China in the future to pursue a master's degree or find a job.